Invictive
you have it right the first time. 40 amp wire is OK on an 80 amp breaker because it is a motor. But an 80 amp breaker is the Maximum size for a breaker and a 50 or 60 would be better as long as you don't trip on startup. A 40 might even be adequate. Cord connected with an attachment plug is a disconnecting means so even 50 feet and around a corner works too. There are lots of 50 amp plugs and receptacles available to chose from and an 80 amp pin and sleeve receptacle is a bit rich. Have a look at Meltrac Decontactor products for really high quality plugs and receptacles. They act as disconnects and plugs for true no load disconnection. IE they turn off the power before the plug can be removed. Unplugging a bigger motor under load can create a bad situation. For 3 phase 250 volt a regular twist lock L15-50R. covers it and for a single phase 250 volt L6-50r. No regular plug & receptacle should be opened under load. The rating for your plug comes from the 32 amps and 7.5 HP not the breaker rating. Make sure the type S cable you buy matches the motor temperature rating. 75 degree is only good for ventilated motors of class A and B insulation. 90 degree covers most motors except non ventilated class f and h.
Welcome to Victoria and be careful the City of Victoria has its own inspectors and permit system. All of the other 14 municipalities use the Safety Authority.
