Types of power plugs. Electric plug: types and description

Electrical appliances today are the main tools in everyday life (and not only), which have certain characteristics of power consumption, current and voltage.

Based on these parameters, they plan a particular power of the electrical network, selecting their elements: solid or stranded conductors (wires), as well as various types of sockets, which, in fact, will be discussed in this article.

So, a socket is an element electrical network, by means of which a detachable connection (connection) of an electrical device to a power source is made - the electrical network. Different countries apply different standards, and accordingly the design and other parameters vary somewhat.

However, in order to successfully make a choice, to find out how to choose the right outlet, you should be guided by the following basic data:

• total power of devices connected to the outlet;
• type of plug connected to the socket of an electrical appliance;
• location and humidity and temperature conditions of the room;
• appropriate type of design and method of installation of the socket;
• the need for a built-in electronic component.

It is clear that you need to focus on the power of the device so that the outlet, designed for a lower consumer power, does not overheat. You should also pay attention to what kind of plug the device has, because Soviet standards are still used, which are not compatible. In addition, sockets are classified according to the tightness of the housing and other parameters, which we will consider below.

Types of sockets according to the power of connected consumers

The total wattage of the appliances connected to the outlet is a key aspect of outlet selection.

Ideally, each appliance should have one outlet and wiring line, but sometimes there is an unplanned need to connect two or more appliances to one outlet through a special electrical coupler.

There is a formula by which you can find out which sockets to choose for a particular device (with a substantial margin, preferably), based on its power consumption, which is measured in Watts (denoted by the letter W or Russian V):

That is, the current measured in amperes (A) is equal to the power of the device (W, Watt) divided by the voltage (V, Volt). The fact is that circuit breakers and sockets are selected according to current strength, and only the power consumption is mentioned on the devices, so it is necessary to convert the values ​​​​using this formula in order to compare them.

In practice, it looks like this: the electric stove has a power of 5 kilowatts, that is, 5000 watts and is designed for a voltage of 220 volts, respectively, 5000/220 = 22.7A. This means that the electrical outlet must be designed for at least this current strength.

Old, Soviet-style sockets were used with a power of 6A and 10A, while modern household sockets are designed for a maximum threshold of 16A; power sockets are a separate class (not related to household ones, but used in everyday life in a number of cases). Such power devices used in everyday life include an electrical outlet for an electric stove, which is designed for more than 16A - 25A and even more - 32A. However, most often high-power devices that require more than 25A are connected in a permanent way, that is, directly with a power electrical cable.

Here we are talking about the standards that are used in post-Soviet territories and EU countries.

There are two main types, from which you can determine which sockets to choose for an apartment or house, focusing on the type of plug and the presence/absence of a grounding conductor.

They (types of sockets and plugs) are designated by letters, the most common and universal is the European type C without a grounding contact, the so-called “Europlug”, which is universal for the still common Soviet C1/C, as well as European ones with grounding - French E and German F.

You can clearly observe the most common types of sockets in different countries of the European Union and CIS countries in the table below.

The most common types of household sockets in the CIS and Europe

Type C "Europlug"		It is used in all CIS countries and most European countries. Fully compatible with plugs of types E, F and Soviet C1/B. Current strength – 6A, 10A, 16A. Voltage – 220-250V, frequency – 50Hz. There is no ground connection. Application – household appliances low and medium power, not requiring grounding.
		Used in some European countries: France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Tunisia and Morocco. Rarely in CIS countries. Fully compatible with type C (CEE 7/17) and E/F (EE 7/7) plugs. Current strength – 10A, 16A inclusive. Voltage – 250V, frequency – 50Hz. There is a ground contact. Application – medium power household appliances with grounding.
Type F "Schuko"		Used in most European countries (especially eastern ones), this German standard of sockets is widespread in the market of the CIS countries. Fully compatible with type C, E/F plugs; partially E (without contact of grounding contacts). Current strength is 16A (simple household) and 25A (power for electric stoves). Voltage 250V and 380V respectively, frequency – 50Hz.

Soviet standard sockets (C1/A) are similar to type C “Europlug”, but are designed for plugs with pins with a diameter of 4 mm, which makes it impossible to connect plugs of types E and F, as well as type C of modification CEE 7/17 (with a plug diameter of 4 .8 mm). Of the modern plugs, Soviet sockets support only CEE 7/16 type C. To give you a clear idea of ​​what kind of plug these are, below is a table of their types, markings and capacities.

The most common types of household appliance plugs in the CIS and Europe

Soviet C1/B		Still produced and used in the CIS countries as an alternative to CEE 7/16 Europlug (generally a higher quality alternative). Current strength – 6A, 10A. Voltage – 220-250V, frequency – 50Hz. Without grounding, compatible with European standards C, E, F modification without a round rim (or if the rim is broken off).
Pan-European CEE 7/16 (Europlug)		Most popular in Europe, with the exception of the countries: Cyprus, Malta, Ireland, United Kingdom. Used to power low-power devices without the need for grounding. Designed for a current of 2.5A, voltage 110-250V, frequency - 50Hz. Compatible with standards: C, C1, E, F.
Pan-European CEE 7/17		Applicable in the CIS and European countries, except those listed above. Application – power supply of low and medium power household appliances that do not require a ground loop. Current strength – 16A. Voltage – 220-250V, frequency – 50Hz. Compatible with C, E, F. Not compatible with Soviet C1.
European French E CEE 7/5		Consists of application in France, Belgium, Poland. Application – power supply of household appliances of small, medium and higher power that require grounding. Designed for current 16A, voltage 250V, frequency 50Hz. Compatible with type C and E sockets respectively.
European German F under "Schuko", CEE 7/4		Widely distributed in the CIS countries, as well as in European Germany, Austria, Sweden, Norway and Holland. Application – power supply of medium and high power household appliances that require grounding. Current strength is 16A, there are modifications of 25A, voltage 250V, frequency 50Hz. Compatible with socket type C and F respectively.
European Hybrid E/F (Germany-France) CEE 7/7		Widely distributed in the European Union and CIS countries. It has a grounding conductor compatible with that on sockets of type E, F. It is used to power household appliances of low, medium and high power. Power characteristics are equal to those of CEE 7/4 and CEE 7/5. Compatible with socket types C, E, F.

This was a list of sockets and plugs of the types that are used in the CIS and Europe. A huge number of household appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators, dishwashers, heaters, electric kettles, washing machines and similar energy-intensive appliances with grounding are supplied with a plug cord of the hybrid E/F CEE7/7 type.

Type F CEE 7/4 plugs are also widely used in such devices, but a French socket with a protruding ground pin will not fit. Therefore, for such devices, the types of electrical sockets of which are located respectively in the kitchen or bathroom and power such devices, type F “Schuko” is installed, since both types of plugs are suitable for them.

Particular attention should be paid to the room for which the outlet is selected. If this is a bathroom or a kitchen area close to water, then you need to select an appropriate waterproof outlet. The same applies to sockets located outside the house and in open gazebos.

In the rooms you can install an ordinary socket, but in the hallway, for example, where dust is brought from people with their outerwear, you should choose a dust-resistant socket. At the same time, the sockets have two protection factors from both influences and how to choose sockets based on them, let’s look at the markings of the sockets of which, by the way, there are two:

• IP marking;
• NEMA/UL marking.

IP marking is a set of characters made up of letters and numbers, for example IP30. The first combination of letters IP is an abbreviation for “International Perfection”, that is, “International Protection”, which indicates the degree of tightness of the case against the ingress of moisture and dust particles inside.

Next come the numbers, the first indicates the degree of protection from dust, chips and other solids, as well as touches. The second is an indicator of protection from water, that is, IP30 is a simple household socket with protection against solid particles of a certain size (see table below) and no protection from any influence of water. Let us present a table of decoding of these numerical values.

IP markings for protection against contact, large and small solids, and dust

IP markings for protection against water influences of different intensity and angle

Also, this marking may use a third digit, which indicates the shock resistance of the case, but this is not relevant in household sockets, so we will not consider it. There may also be letters after the digital value: H (indicates the device high voltage), M (tested in working condition against water ingress), S (tested in non-working condition against water ingress), W (with protective equipment additionally specified).

NEMA/UL marking represented by the abbreviation “NEMA” followed by one or two numbers, with or without a letter at the end, for example NEMA/UL 3R. These four letters stand for National Electrical Manufacturers Association; UL stands for Underwriters' Laboratories.

This marking also indicates that these outlet standards are used in the USA and are certified accordingly. In the CIS and many European countries this standard is very rarely used, but it is worth considering. There is a table with which you can decipher what the marking on the socket means, and also compare it with IP, we will consider it further.

Nema standard markings

Occasionally you can see those included with computer equipment(monitors, power supplies) 125/250V power cords with two flat parallel perforated or solid contacts and one round - these are cords with a NEMA 5-15 connector, designed for the appropriate outlet.

They are widespread in the USA, and it makes no sense to get an American standard socket for them in the CIS; it is better to separately purchase a cord at the other end with a CEE 7/4 connector for socket type F (Schuko) or a hybrid CEE 7/7 compatible with sockets of type E and F. You can also use an adapter, but the first option is best with almost equal financial costs.

There are other types of markings indicating the housing strength parameter, for example IK, accompanied by a digital value from 00 to 10, however, when choosing household socket it is not relevant and not worth considering.

Types of sockets by design and installation method

When choosing a socket, it is important to take into account the material from which the walls of the room are made, since this determines which sockets are best to choose - for a hidden or open installation method.

You can learn more about the basics of installation using these methods in the article “”, but now let’s look at the purely constructive part.

In addition, sockets are distinguished by the number of modules, which determines the number of connections, and there is also a division according to the materials from which their core is made. Regarding the installation method, sockets can be divided into:

• invoices;
• built-in;
• portable.

In part, the installation method also dictates their design, which is manifested in the presence or absence of certain fastening elements and mechanisms. Also, the design of the body itself differs, in general, let's look at it.

Overhead sockets used in cases where an open installation method is required.

For example, in the case of a wall made of logs in a wooden house, when it is impossible, according to standards and fire safety, to make slots in a solid log and install electrical elements there.

Thus, the wires are laid along the surface of the wall and external electrical sockets are connected to them and mounted on a socket box that is pre-installed on the wall plane.

There is another type of overhead sockets that are mounted on baseboards if the wiring runs through them.

They do not look aesthetically pleasing, and are also considered less reliable and more often break when the plug is suddenly pulled out than built-in sockets, but in a log house the only alternative is portable sockets.

Built-in sockets used in the construction of walls made of reinforced concrete, brick, and blocks.

They are also mounted in hollow core panel partitions made of fiberboard, chipboard, MDF and plasterboard.

They are mounted in a special plastic mounting box, installed in advance in a hole made in the wall or partition.

The design of the socket core includes special spacer legs that secure it (the core) inside the mounting box, adjusting the force of the expansion with special screws.

Thus, all the working elements and internal electrical cores of the socket are located in the thickness of the wall; only a restrictive metal (or plastic) frame protrudes outside, which is then hidden by the socket body.

Portable sockets can be found on sale as extension cords; they come complete with a cord and plug (most often a hybrid E/F (Germany-France) CEE 7/7).

There are also many configurations available without a cord, which can easily be connected to an electrical cable outlet from a wall or baseboard, thus avoiding installation work using wall methods. However, such sockets are rarely used directly.

The housing is unscrewed into two halves using structural screws, the cable is clamped with a common clamp, and the contacts are clamped into clamp terminals. The design of such portable sockets can often include a power on/off button, as well as a power indicator, which makes them convenient.

It is worth noting that the photo shows a very interesting and intricate socket, which is classified according to the installation method as a stationary built-in one, but has a portable element - a socket for a plug on an extension wire.

Design and arrangement of a household electrical outlet

The design of a socket for concealed installation is considered the most complex, since it has additional fasteners that are used to install them.

They can also be with or without grounding, and grounding contacts of different shapes and conductor area/section.

As for the durability and reliability of the socket, this depends on the alloy from which the contacts are made, as well as the base material. A new type of device used in modern everyday life electrical outlet consists of the following components:

• input contacts/terminals;
• output contacts;
• grounding contact (if any);
• insulator/base;
• frame.

Of course, the socket kit may contain additional elements, such as “curtains” (latches) or covers to prevent water from entering, various relays and other elements, but now we will consider a classic socket for installation in a hidden way without any bells and whistles.

Input pins , they are also terminals, are located at the end of the socket and are intended for connecting electrical neutral and phase conductors, as well as a grounding conductor.

There are two types of wire fastenings that a modern socket has, contacts and terminals: screw and screwless.

Screw connections secure the wire between two plates, fastened together with a screw that is manually tightened by an electrician.

Screwless ones have a spring element that presses the plates, keeping them constantly under pressure, pressed.

Screwless clamps are considered more reliable, since under the influence of vibrations from the frequency of the current, the contact does not become loose or weaken.

The material from which the input contact plates are made is brass and bronze. Brass contacts are considered short-lived and quickly deteriorate in high humidity, and they also get very hot and are poorly compatible with aluminum wiring.

Output contacts , that is, detachable ones into which the pins of the plug are connected, also called jaws, petals (but the socket with a grounding contact has a separately located conductor).

These detachable contacts consist of pairs of parallel plates with oval extensions at the point where the pin is connected. The old plates had special spring clamps that prevented them from deforming and weakening.

The materials for the manufacture of output contact plates are brass (tinned or uncoated) and bronze. Brass plates weaken over time and do not provide proper clamping of the plug pins, causing sparking and melting of the housing. Tinned brass is more resistant to increased moisture, conducts current better and heats up less.

Plates made from a modern composition - phosphor bronze, have a good coefficient of spring deformation, accordingly weaken less, and also heat up less and contribute to greater bandwidth. There are also silver-plated contacts, which have the best characteristics of current conductivity, reliability and durability.

Ground contact (PE yellow, yellow-green wire) is available in modern sockets, the most common in the CIS is a plug socket with a grounding contact, type F, in which this conductor is supplied in the form of a bracket that clasps the plug where it has grounding contacts.

From a technical point of view, there is nothing to describe, if we talk about standards and grounding devices, then there are the following main types: TN-C, TN-S, TN-C-S.

When grounding TN-C, the grounding conductor is connected to the working neutral conductor because there is no separate grounding line.

If these conductors are combined in the socket, then if there is a current leak, a short circuit will occur, which, in theory, should trip the circuit breaker.

With the TN-S system, there is a cable in the house that is responsible for grounding, and it is connected to the grounding terminal of the socket. With TN-C-S, the common wire is also connected to the neutral and ground contact of the socket, but later it is disconnected to the ground and neutral conductor, respectively.

Insulator , also known as the dielectric component of the socket, is the very core of the socket with all the elements described above contained on it, fixed with rivets or screws.

This element, also referred to as the base of the socket, is the only one that does not allow current to pass through, besides the housing cover. The mounting spacer brackets can also be attached to the base.

Depending on the material from which they are made, there are sockets with a ceramic base and with a plastic base. The ceramic base is made of porcelain material and has the best resistance to high temperatures, but at the same time is more fragile than plastic bases for sockets. As for the plastic bases of the sockets, they are refractory, but are more susceptible to charring.

consists of a metal frame attached to the base. On the sides of this frame there can be spacer legs for fastening in the box.

From the front part it is a restrictive metal rectangular frame, which prevents the entire structure of the socket from being sunk deeper than it should be. The frame also provides support against the wall, thus making the entire supporting structure rigid.

The frame may have holes for additional fastening with self-tapping screws to the edge of the mounting box, as well as holes for latches of the plastic frame of the socket. The socket frame is mounted on top of it with a screw (in the center) or/and additionally with latches.

The socket frame can be solid or consist of a rim and a core, in which there are holes for power and grounding contacts, as well as a mounting screw in the center. In the second case, the core presses the frame against the metal frame pressed against the wall.

This configuration of the socket body is used if a double electrical socket is required, or even a triple-quadruple one, that is, paired using a separately purchased frame with the appropriate number of sections.

Cheap sockets use low-quality plastic, the frames of which become yellow within a couple of years or lose color in the case of colored plastic. Also, it (cheap plastic) chars, cracks and crumbles faster.

Types of sockets with built-in electronic components and additional components

In addition to standard sockets, which only have a socket for connecting a plug, there are sockets with built-in electronics, universal sockets for any type of plug, as well as sockets with special latches to protect children from electric shock and hermetically sealed lids for rooms with particularly high humidity. Let us next consider which sockets are appropriate to install in this or that case.

(residual current device) is wise to install in rooms where there is a high probability of electric shock, both directly and through the device connected to it.

The essence of the built-in residual current device is that it measures the current leakage that occurs in the event of an electric shock to a person or current leakage through water, through the device body through structural parts of the building, etc.

At the same moment when current leakage occurs, the relay that supplies the output contacts of the socket opens. The maximum that can happen is a slight electric shock or a tiny leak, but your health will not be affected, and the electrical system will remain intact.

Socket with built-in time controller (time relay) is useful in cases where it is necessary to turn off the device after a while, but there is no one to do it. For example, an air compressor for an aquarium, an electric heater, etc.

The element that controls the operating time and disconnection of the outlet from power can be mechanical or electronic.

A mechanical controller, as a rule, opens the contacts after loosening a pre-tensioned (by turning) spring element, a socket with a timer, in other words.

The electronic controller contains a microprocessor that acts on the territorial key, turning off the power, and can be programmed for complex time tasks, for a time schedule of repeated power on and off.

Today it is not common in its stationary varieties, but there is already a prototype developed by designer Muhyeon Kim.

In addition to the digital consumption indicator, it has a backlight, which, depending on consumption, changes colors in the palette from blue (at minimum consumption) to red (at maximum consumption).

The idea of ​​such an outlet is quite clear - to control the electricity consumption of the device connected to such an outlet. It may be very useful device For example, you turned on a one and a half kW UFO heater and, in addition to monitoring the feeling of temperature, you can clearly see how much electricity is being consumed, based on this, look for a middle ground.

has a form of detachable contacts that will fit almost any type of plug and grounding contact.

In addition, many of them have a built-in USB charging adapter (in the one in the photo at the top, the lid opens to reveal USB connectors).

It is not widespread and is not particularly popular in the CIS, since the plug connector standards used are uniform and compatible with each other, and US standards are not used in everyday life.

As for protected sockets, there are two types: with “curtains” and with covers. The first are childproof sockets; they have protection in the form of flaps inside the lid; when pressed firmly with a fork, powerful spring elements bend and the curtains turn into the free space of the case. They are a protection against small children if they decide to poke a knitting needle or a screwdriver into the socket.

With covers, sockets do not pose a hindrance to children, therefore they are installed if there is no such threat and only in rooms with high humidity. There, depending on the tightness, there are different designs (with and without a seal).

List of plug standards

List of plug standards

The two most common standards in the world are voltage and frequency. One of them is the American standard 110-127 Volt 60 Hertz, together with plugs A and B. The other standard is the European standard, 220-240 Volt 50 Hertz, plugs types C - M.

Most countries have adopted one of these two standards, although transitional or unique standards are sometimes found. On the map we can see in which countries certain standards are used.

Voltage/Frequency.

Types of forks.

Types currently in use

Electrical plugs and sockets vary from country to country in shape, size, maximum current rating, and other features. The type used in each country is fixed by law by the adoption of national standards. In this article, each type is designated by a letter from a US government publication.

Type A

Non-polarized Type A plug

NEMA 1-15 (North American 15 A/125 V, ungrounded), according to GOST 7396.1-89 - type A 1-15

Unusual American 5-socket Type A block, circa 1928

This type of plug and receptacle, with two flat parallel non-coplanar (not in the plane of the plug body) blades and slots, is used in most North American countries and on the east coast of South America, with devices that do not require grounding, such as lamps and small devices with double isolation. This type is accepted by 38 countries outside North America and standardized in the United States by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). NEMA 1-15 receptacles have been banned in new buildings in the United States and Canada since 1962, but remain in many older homes and still being sold for repairs. Type A plugs are still very common because they are compatible with Type B sockets.

Originally, the pins of the plug and the slot of the socket were the same height, and the plug could be inserted into the socket in any orientation. Modern plugs and sockets are polarized with a wider neutral contact so that the plug can only be inserted the correct way. Polarized Type A plugs will not fit into non-polarized Type A receptacles because both slots in the receptacle are equally narrow. However, both non-polarized and polarized Type A plugs fit into a polarized Type A receptacle and a Type B receptacle. Some devices for which the location of the live and neutral wires is not important, such as sealed power supplies, are still manufactured with non-polarized Type A plugs (both blades are narrow ).

Japanese socket with grounding plug, for washing machine.

JIS C 8303, Class II (Japanese 15 A/100 V, ungrounded)

The Japanese plug and socket are identical to NEMA 1-15 type. However, Japan has stricter fork body sizing requirements, different labeling requirements, and requires mandatory testing and approval by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) or JIS.

Many Japanese sockets and extension cords are non-polarized—the slots in the sockets are the same size—and only accept non-polarized plugs. Japanese plugs will generally fit most North American outlets without issue, but polarized North American plugs may require an adapter or replacement to fit into older Japanese outlets. However, the mains voltage in Japan is 100 V, and the frequency in the east is 50 Hz, not 60 Hz, so North American devices can be connected to the Japanese network, but correct work not guaranteed.

Type B

A type B fork has, in addition to parallel flat blades, a round or letter-shaped blade U grounding terminal (US NEMA 5-15/Canadian CSA 22.2, _ 42). It is rated for a current of 15 Amps and a voltage of 125 Volts. The grounding contact is longer than the phase and neutral contacts, which means that the grounding connection is guaranteed before the power is turned on. Sometimes both power pins on Type B plugs are narrow because the ground pin prevents the plug from being plugged in incorrectly, but the slots in the socket are different sizes to accommodate correct connection Type A plugs. If the ground pin is located at the bottom, the phase will be on the right.

The 5-15 socket is the standard throughout North America (Canada, USA and Mexico). True, Mexico also uses Japanese-style sockets. The 5-15 socket is also used in central America, the Caribbean, northern South America (Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and parts of Brazil), Japan, Taiwan and Saudi Arabia.

In some parts of the US, new buildings are now required to install electrical outlets with protective curtains to prevent foreign objects from being inserted into them.

A 5-20R receptacle with a neutral T-slot installed with the ground pin facing up.

In theaters this connector is sometimes called PBG(Parallel Blade with Ground, parallel knives with the ground), Edison or Hubbell, by the name of the main manufacturer.

NEMA 5-20 (North American 20 A/125 V, grounded) according to GOST 7396.1-89 - type A 5-20

In new residential areas, since about 1992, 20-amp T-slot receptacles accept both 15-amp parallel-blade plugs and 20-amp plugs.

JIS C 8303, Class I (Japanese 15 A/100 V, grounded)

Japan also uses a Type B plug, similar to the North American one. However, it is less common than its type A equivalent.

Type C

Plug and socket CEE 7/16

(Not to be confused with three-pin IEC connectors C13 and C14)

CEE 7/16 (Europlug (Europlug) 2.5 A/250 V, without grounding), according to GOST 7396.1-89 - type C5 option II

For more information on this topic, see: Europlug.

This two-pin plug is known in Europe as Europlug (Europlug, not to be confused with Schuko, which is called Europlug in Russia). The plug is not grounded and has two 4mm round prongs that usually meet slightly towards their free ends. It can be inserted into any socket that accepts 4mm diameter round pins spaced 19mm apart. It is described in CEE 7/16 and also defined in the Italian standard CEI 23-5 and the Russian standard GOST 7396.

The Europlug is equipped with class II devices throughout continental Europe (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Germany, Greenland, Greece, Denmark, Iceland, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey, Ukraine, Finland, France, Croatia, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Sweden and Estonia). It is also used in the Middle East, most African countries, South America (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Uruguay and Chile), Asia (Bangladesh, Indonesia and Pakistan) as well as in the former Soviet republics and many developing countries. It is also used in many countries along with the BS 1363 plug, especially the former British colonies.

This plug is designed for a current of 2.5 A. Since it is non-polarized, it can be inserted into the socket in any position, so the phase and neutral are connected randomly.

The spacing and length of the pins allow it to be safely plugged into most sockets CEE 7/17, type E (French), type H (Israeli), CEE 7/4 (Schuko), CEE 7/7, type J (Swiss), type K ( Danish) and type L (Italian).

Fork CEE 7/17

CEE 7/17 (German-French 16 A/250 V, ungrounded), according to GOST 7396.1-89 - type C6

This plug also has two round prongs, but they are 4.8mm in diameter, like the E and F types. The plug has a round plastic or rubber base that prevents it from being plugged into the small Europlug sockets. The plug fits only into large round sockets for types E and F. The plug has both a hole for the grounding pin and contact strips for the side contacts. The plug is used in conjunction with class II devices designed for high operating current (vacuum cleaners, hair dryers), and in South Korea - with any household appliances that do not require grounding. It is also defined in the Italian standard CEI 23-5. Can be inserted into an Israeli H-type socket, although this is not recommended as they are designed for smaller diameter pins.

Hybrid E/F type

CEE 7/7 plug

CEE 7/7 (French-German 16 A/250 V, with grounding), according to GOST 7396.1-89 - type C4

To be compatible with types E and F, a CEE 7/7 plug has been developed. It is polarized when used with a type E socket, but in type F sockets the connection between the phase and neutral wires is not observed. The plug is rated for 16 A. It has grounding clamps on both sides for connection to a CEE 7/4 socket outlet and a female contact for the grounding pin of a Type E socket outlet. Appliances supplied to countries using the E or F standard are supplied with this type of plug.

Type G

Plug according to British Standard 1363. This type used not only in the UK, but also in Ireland, Sri Lanka, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Yemen, Oman, Cyprus, Malta, Gibraltar, Botswana, Ghana, Hong Kong, Macau, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia , Bangladesh, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Mauritius, Iraq, Kuwait, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. BS 1363 is also the standard for some former British colonies in the Caribbean such as Belize, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. It is also used in Saudi Arabia in 230V appliances, although 110V appliances with a NEMA connector are more common.

This plug, commonly known as a "13-amp plug", is a large plug with three rectangular prongs forming a triangle. The phase and neutral contacts are 18 mm long and spaced 22 mm apart. 9 mm of insulation at the base of the pins prevents accidental contact with exposed conductor when the plug is partially inserted. The ground pin is approximately 4 x 8 mm and approximately 23 mm long.

The plug has a built-in fuse. It is needed to protect the supply wire, as in the UK ring wiring is used, protected only by a central fuse, usually 32A. Any fuse can be inserted into the plug, but according to safety requirements it must be designed for the maximum current of the device being protected. The fuse is 1 inch (25.4 mm) long according to British Standard BS 1362. The sockets are wired with the neutral wire on the left and the live wire on the right (looking at the front of the socket), so that a blown fuse in the plug will break the live wire. The same convention is used for all UK sockets connected directly to the 'mains' wiring.

British Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) require socket outlets in homes to have a shutter on the live and neutral openings to prevent anything other than electrical plugs from being inserted. The shutters open when a longer ground pin is inserted. The curtains also prevent the use of plugs of other standards. Plugs for Class II devices that do not require grounding have a grounding pin that is often made of plastic and serves only to open the shutters and comply with the phase and neutral connection rules. It is generally possible to open the shutters with the blade of a screwdriver to accommodate a Type C plug (but not the BS 4573 British razor plug) or other types of plugs, but this is dangerous as these plugs do not have a safety lock and may jam in the socket.

BS 1363 plugs and sockets began appearing in 1946, and the BS 1363 standard was first published in 1947. By the late 1950s it had replaced the earlier Type D BS 546 in new devices, and by the late 1960s Type D devices were converted to Type BS 1363. Socket outlets often have phase switches for convenience and safety.

Type H

Two Israeli plugs and one socket. On the left is the old standard fork, on the right is the modernization of 1989.

SI 32 (Israeli 16 A/250 V, with grounding)

This plug, defined in SI 32 (IS16A-R), is not found anywhere except Israel and is not compatible with other types of sockets. It has three flat pins arranged in the shape of the letter Y. The phase and neutral are spaced 19 mm apart. The H-type plug is designed for 16A current, but in practice, the thin flat pins can cause the plug to overheat when connecting high-power devices. In 1989 the standard was revised. Now three round 4mm pins are used, placed in the same way. Receptacles manufactured since 1989 accept both flat and round prongs to accommodate both types of plugs. This also allows you to connect type H sockets to type C plugs, which are used in Israel for ungrounded devices. Older sockets, circa 1970s production, have both flat and round holes for the phase and neutral to accept both Type C and H plugs. As of 2008, Type H sockets, which accept only older Type H plugs, very rare in Israel.

This plug is also used in areas controlled by the Palestinian National Authority in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Type I

Australian 3 pin double socket with switches

AS/NZS 3112 (Australasian type 10 A/240 V)

For more information on this topic see: AS 3112.

This type of plug, used in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Argentina and Papua New Guinea, has a grounding pin and two flat power pins in an inverted V shape. The flat blades measure 6.5 mm × 1.6 mm and are mounted under an angle of 30° to the vertical with a nominal distance between them of 13.7 mm. Australian and New Zealand wall sockets almost always have switches for added safety, just like in England. An ungrounded version of this plug, with two angled power pins but no grounding pin, is used with small double-insulated appliances, but wall outlets always have three pins, including the grounding pin.

There are several variants of the AS/NZS 3112 plug, including a version with a wider grounding pin, used by devices with a current draw of up to 15 A; Receptacles that support this contact also support 10-amp plugs. There is a 20 Amp version, with all three pins oversized, as well as 25 and 32 Amp options, with the pins larger than the 20 Amp plug, forming an inverted "L" for 25A and a horizontal "U" for 32A . These outlets accept plugs rated at or below the maximum amperage rating, but not plugs rated at higher amperages. For example, a 10A plug will fit into all sockets, but a 20A plug will only fit into 20, 25, and 32A sockets).

The Australasian standard plug/socket system was originally called the C112 standard (originating in 1937 as a temporary solution, adopted as a formal standard in 1938), which was replaced by the AS 3112 standard in 1990. As of 2005, the last significant change is AS/NZS 3112:2004, which requires insulation on supply contacts. However, it is permitted to use equipment and cables manufactured before 2003.

Chinese sockets accepting plugs types A, C (top) and I (bottom, standard)

China Compulsory Certification Mark (CCC)

CPCS-CCC (Chinese 10 A/250 V), according to GOST 7396 .1-89 - type A10-20

Although Chinese sockets have 1mm longer pins, they can accept Australasian plugs. The standard for Chinese plugs and sockets is established by documents GB 2099.1-1996 and GB 1002-1996. As part of China's commitment to join the WTO, introduced new system CPCS (Compulsory Product Certification System) certification, and the corresponding Chinese plugs receive the CCC (China Compulsory Certification) mark. The plug has three contacts, grounding. Rated at 10A, 250V and used in Class 1 devices.

In China, sockets are installed the other way around, upside down, compared to Australasian ones.

China also uses US-Japanese Type A plugs and sockets for Class II devices. However, the voltage between the contacts of a Chinese socket is always 220V, regardless of the type of plug.

IRAM 2073 (Argentine 10A/250V)

The Argentinean plug has three contacts, grounding, and is designed for a current of 10A, voltage of 250V. The standard is defined by the Argentine Institute for Standardization and Certification (Instituto Argentino de Normalización y Certificación, IRAM) and is used with Class 1 devices in Argentina and Uruguay.

This fork is similar in appearance to Australasian and Chinese forks. The pin length is the same as the Chinese version. The most important difference from the Australasian plug is that the phase and neutral are connected to it in reverse.

Type J

Type J plugs and sockets

SEV 1011 (Swiss type 10 A/250 V)

Switzerland has its own standard, described in document SEV 1011. (ASE1011/1959 SW10A-R) This plug is similar to the Euro plug type C (CEE 7/16), except that it has an offset ground pin and no pins. insulated sleeves so that plugs that are not fully inserted into non-recessed receptacles present a risk of electric shock. Sockets used in kitchens, bathrooms and other wet areas are recessed, but those in other places are not. Some plugs and adapters have tapered ends and can be used anywhere, while others only fit into non-recessed outlets. Swiss sockets accept Swiss plugs or Euro plugs (CEE 7/16). There is also an ungrounded two-pin version with the same shape, dimensions and live-to-neutral spacing as the SEV 1011, but with a flatter hexagonal shape. The plug fits round and hexagonal Swiss sockets and CEE 7/16 sockets. Designed for current up to 10 A.

A less common version has 3 square contacts and is rated at 16 A. Above 16 A, the equipment must either be connected to the mains in a permanent way, with suitable branch protection, or connected using a suitable industrial connector.

Type K

Danish 107-2-D1, standard DK 2-1a, with round power pins and semi-circular ground pin

Danish computer socket, with rotated flat pins and semi-circular ground pin (used mainly for professional equipment), standard DK 2-5a

Section 107-2-D1 (Danish 10 A/250 V, grounded)

This Danish standard plug is described in Danish Plug Equipment Section 107-2-D1 Standard sheet (SRAF1962/DB 16/87 DN10A-R). The plug is similar to the French Type E, except that it has a grounding pin instead of a grounding hole (it's the other way around in a socket). This makes the Danish socket more discreet than the French socket, which appears as a depression in the wall to protect the ground pin from damage and from touching the power pins.

The Danish socket also accepts Europlug type C CEE 7/16 or type E/F CEE 7/17 Schuko-French hybrid plug. Type F CEE 7/4 (Schuko), E/F CEE 7/7 (Schuko-French hybrid), and type E grounded French plug will also fit into this outlet, but should not be used for devices that require a grounding contact. Both plugs are rated at 10A.

The variant (standard DK 2-5a) of the Danish plug is intended only for interference-proof computer sockets. It fits into the corresponding computer socket and the normal K-type socket, but the normal K-type plugs are intentionally made to not fit into the dedicated computer socket. This plug is often used in companies, but very rarely at home.

There is also an option for medical equipment, with a rectangular left pin. It is often used in life support systems.

Traditionally, all Danish sockets were equipped with a switch to prevent touching live contacts when connecting/disconnecting the plug. Today, the use of sockets without switches is permitted, but such sockets must have a recess that protects a person from touching live contacts. However, usually the shape of the plug makes it very difficult to touch the contacts when connecting/disconnecting.

Since the early 1990s, grounded sockets have become mandatory in all new electrical installations in Denmark. Old sockets do not need to be grounded, but from 1 July 2008 all sockets, including old ones, must be protected by an RCD (HFI in Danish terminology).

Since 1 July 2008, type E (French, two-pin, earthing pin) wall sockets have been permitted in Denmark. This was done because equipment with K-type plugs was not sold to individuals and to break the monopoly of Lauritz Knudsen, the only company making K-type plugs and sockets.

Schuko type F sockets will not be permitted. The reason is that most plugs currently used in Denmark will get stuck in a Schuko socket. This can damage the socket. This may also cause poor contact, with the risk of overheating and fire. Broken F sockets can often be seen in German hotels frequented by Danes. Many international travel adapters are sold outside Denmark with plugs conforming to types C CEE 7/16 (Europlug) and E/F CEE 7/7 (Franco-Schuko hybrid), which can be used in Denmark.

Type L

Plug and socket 23-16/VII

A visual comparison of Italian type L plugs rated at 16 Amps (left) and 10 Amps (right).

Italian electrical installation with sockets of both types L (16 A on the left; 10 A on the right).

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian type 10 A/250 V and 16 A/250 V)

The Italian standard for earthed plug/socket outlets, CEI 23-16/VII, includes two models, 10 A and 16 A, differing in pin diameter and pin spacing (see details below). Both are symmetrical and allow you to connect the phase with the neutral in any way.

The double standard was adopted because in Italy, until the second half of the 20th century, electricity for lighting ( Luce= lighting) and for other purposes ( Forza= force, electromotive force; or Uso Promiscuo= general purpose) were sold at different tariffs, with different taxes, were considered separate meters, and were transmitted over different wires ending in different sockets. Although both electric lines (and the corresponding tariffs) were combined in the summer of 1974, many homes remained double-wired and double-metered for many years. Thus, two sizes of plugs and sockets became the de facto standard, still in use today and standardized in document CEI 23-16/VII. Older products are often equipped with one of the standard sockets, either 10 A or 16 A, requiring the use of an adapter to connect the other size plug.

Ungrounded Euro plugs CEE 7/16 (type C) are also widely used; they are standardized in Italy as CEI 23-5 and are suitable for most devices with low current requirements and double insulation.

Devices with CEE 7/7 plugs are also often sold in Italy, however, not every socket can accept them, since the contacts of CEE 7/7 plugs are thicker than Italian ones. Adapters are cheap and are often used to connect CEE 7/7 plugs to CEI 23-16/VII sockets, but the rated current requirement is often violated (16A instead of 10A), which can lead to an unsafe connection in some cases.

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian 10 A/250 V)

The 10 amp variety extends the CEE 7/16 by adding a center ground pin of the same size. Therefore, CEI 23-16-VII 10 Amp sockets can accept CEE 7/16 Europlugs. This type of plug is shown in the first picture.

CEI 23-16/VII (Italian 16 A/250 V)

The 16 amp looks like a larger version of the similarly shaped 10 amp. However, the pins are 5 mm thick, with a distance of 8 mm between them (the 10A version has a distance of 5.5 mm), and are 7 mm longer. The packaging of these plugs in Italy may claim that they are of the “Northern European” type. In the past they were also called per la forza motrice(for electromotive force) (for forks for motive force, see above) or sometimes industriale(industrial), although the latter was never the correct definition, since enterprises used mainly three-phase current and special connectors.

Two-size or multi-size sockets

Socket bipasso(number 1) and Italian adapted socket schuko(number 2 in the photo) in a modern product.

Italian socket brand VIMAR universale, capable of accepting plug types A, C, E, F, E/F hybrids and both Italian L plug types.

Since it is a fact that the type of plugs found throughout Italy varies, in modern installations in Italy (and other countries where type L plugs are used) it is possible to find sockets that accept plugs of more than one standard. The simplest type has a central round hole and two holes at the bottom and top, made in the shape of a figure eight. This design allows the connection of both type L plugs (CEI 23-16/VII 10 A and 16 A) and Euro plugs type C CEE 7/16. The advantage of this type of socket is its small, compact front part. VIMAR claims that it patented sockets of this type already in 1975 with the release of their model Bpresa; however, soon other manufacturers began selling similar products, calling them in most cases by the generic term presa bipasso(two-standard socket), which is now very common.

The second fairly common type looks like an F receptacle, but with the addition of a central grounding hole. Sockets of this design can, in addition to Type C and 10 Amp L type plugs, accept CEE 7/7 (E/F type) plugs. Some of these outlets may have figure-eight holes to accept 16-amp L-type plugs. The trade-off for versatility is twofold. larger size than a normal L type socket.

Other types may go even further in terms of compatibility. Manufacturer VIMAR produces a socket universale(universal) that accepts CEE 7/7 (E/F type), C type, 10 A and 16 A L type, and US/Japanese A type plugs.

Other countries

Outside Italy, type L CEI 23-16/VII (Italian 10A/250V) plugs can be found in Syria, Libya, Ethiopia, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, various countries in North Africa, and occasionally in old buildings in Spain.

Type M

The term "Type M" is often used to describe the 15 amp version of the old British Type D used in South Africa and elsewhere.

In the USSR, two-pin sockets with non-spring solid ring contacts and a built-in fuse were initially used. These included forks with replaceable split round pins. Often on the back of the plug there were sockets for connecting another plug, which made it possible to connect plugs in a “stack” when there were not enough sockets. But later such plugs were abandoned, since the pins of such plugs often unscrewed and broke while remaining in the socket. Solid pin plugs required the pin to be held in place by spring pins in the socket, so older sockets cannot provide reliable contact between the plug and solid pins. However, low-power devices can be connected to such an outlet. Split plugs typically fit Type C pin diameters, but cannot fit into Type F sockets due to the shape of the housing.

Old spanish sockets

In old buildings in Spain you can find sockets with a special type of plug, which has two flat blades and a round pin between them. This species is vaguely similar to the American one.

The phase and neutral contacts have dimensions of 9 mm × 2 mm. The distance between them is 30 mm. All three contacts are 19 mm long. The diameter of the grounding pin is 4.8 mm.

Despite the fact that the plug resembles an American one, the two flat contacts are much further apart from each other than in the American version.

There are no devices sold with these plugs. An adapter is needed.

British electrical clock connector

British three-pin clock connector and disassembled plug with 2A fuse.

Fused plugs and sockets of various non-interchangeable types can be found in older public buildings in Britain, where they were used to supply AC power to electric wall clocks. They are smaller than conventional sockets, usually designed to fit into BESA (British Engineering Standards Association) junction boxes, often almost flat. Older plugs had a fuse on both wires, newer ones only on the phase wire and had a ground pin. Most were provided with a retaining screw or bracket to prevent accidental disconnection. Gradually battery quartz watch almost completely replaced network ones, and with them similar connectors.

American "Type I"

American appliance manufacturers, Hubbell, Eagle, and perhaps others made sockets and plugs that were exactly Type I, similar to those used in Australia today. Such sockets were installed in the United States in the 1930s for electrical appliances installed in the laundry room: washing machines and gas clothes dryers (to drive the motor). It was impossible to accept type A plugs, which is probably why they quickly fell out of use, being replaced by type B sockets.

Greek "type H"

Sockets, plugs and tees of the old Greek system

Before the widespread use of the schuko system, sockets similar to the H type with round pins were used in Greece, which were usually called τριπολικές (tripoliks).

Perpendicular rosette, USA

Perpendicular slotted double rosette

Perpendicular Soviet slot socket RP-2B for 10A 42V AC

Another outdated type of outlet from Bryant is 125V 15A and 250V 10A. A NEMA 5-20 125V 20A or 6-20 250V 20A plug with a missing ground pin will fit this outlet, but a NEMA 2-20 plug is too large for it.

The top slots, as seen in the picture, are connected to silver clamp screws on the top, and the bottom slots are connected to copper screws on the bottom.

In Australia the same or similar T-shaped sockets are used for DC, for example, in stand-alone power systems (SAPS) or on ships. In this application, the horizontal slot is placed at the top and is at positive potential. In the same way, sockets are used for temporary equipment in emergency vehicles. In Victoria it is customary for the top of the letter T to be marked with a minus sign and therefore to be at negative potential. Outside Victoria, the vertical contact is designed to connect to the body/chassis. Top contact the letter T is positive on vehicles whose chassis is at negative potential. Also, the old transport is still running, with a positive potential on the chassis, that is, the polarity of the socket contacts can be any.

In the Soviet Union, and now in Russia, this socket was usually used to supply a reduced voltage for safety reasons, for example in schools, at gas stations, and in wet areas. The outlet is rated at 42V 10A AC. Such an unusual connection is necessary so that it is impossible to connect a low-voltage device to a 220V outlet.

US, combination double socket

The parallel-series receptacle accepts normal NEMA 1-15 parallel plugs as well as NEMA 2-15 series plugs. Both pairs of outlets are powered by the same source.

A more recent and fairly common version of this type is the T-slot rosette, in which serial and parallel slots were combined to produce T-shaped slots. This version also accepts normal NEMA 1-15 parallel plugs as well as NEMA 2-15 series plugs. By the way, a NEMA 5-20 (125V, 20A) or 6-20 (250V, 20A) plug without a grounding contact will also fit into such an outlet. This type of socket has not been sold in stores since the 1960s.

Dorman & Smith (D&S), UK

D&S socket

The D&S standard was the earliest connector standard for ring wiring. The connectors were designed for a current of 13A. They were never popular in private homes, but were very often installed in prefabricated and municipal ones. They were also used by the BBC. D&S supplied sockets to local authorities at very low prices, with the intention of making money by selling plugs that typically cost 4 times the price of Type G plugs. It is not known exactly when D&S stopped producing plugs and sockets, but some local authorities continued to install them until the late 1950s years. D&S sockets were in use until the early 1980s, although the difficulty of obtaining plugs for them after 1970 forced residents to replace them with G-sockets. This generally contravened local council redevelopment orders. The D&S plug had a serious design flaw: the fuse, which also served as a phase pin, was connected to the plug body with a thread, and often unscrewed during operation, remaining in the socket.

Wylex, UK

Wylex plugs and sockets were manufactured by Wylex Electrical Supplies Ltd. as competitors to the G and D&S types. There were varieties of plugs designed for 5 and 13 amperes, with different widths of phase and neutral contacts and fuse ratings. The plug had a round ground prong in the center and two flat prongs on each side for live and neutral, slightly above the middle of the center prong. Wall sockets were rated at 13A and accepted 5A and 13A plugs. Many 13A plugs have back side There was a socket into which you could only insert a 5A plug. Wylex sockets were installed in municipal and public housing, less often in the private sector. They were particularly popular in the Manchester area, although they were installed throughout England, mainly in schools, university housing and government laboratories. Wylex plugs and sockets continued to be produced after the final adoption of the G standard, and were widely used in banks and computer rooms throughout the 1960s and 1970s for sources uninterruptible power supply or “clean”, filtered networks. It is not known exactly when Wylex stopped producing plugs and sockets; however, plugs could be found on sale in the Manchester area until the mid-1980s.

Chuck adapters

Two Italian lamp sockets, with outlet. On the left is a 1930 example (porcelain and copper); right - ok. 1970 (black plastic).

The incandescent lamp socket plug fits into a bayonet or Edison screw socket. It allows you to connect electrical appliances to light bulb sockets. These plugs were widely used from the 1920s to the 1960s, when many homes had few or no wall outlets.

Often, lighting circuits are equipped with a 5A fuse or circuit breaker, which does not prevent the socket from overheating. Fuses were very rarely installed in the adapters themselves. In the UK and some other countries the use of such adapters is prohibited for fire safety reasons.

In Italy, plugs for Edison lamp sockets were used very widely, while the lighting network was separated from the general purpose network, and some places in the house (for example, basements) were not usually equipped with sockets.

Type A adapters can still be easily found in the Americas.

Rare types

NEMA 2-15 and 2-20

Ungrounded plugs with two flat parallel blades are a variant of the 1-15 plug, but are designed to supply 240 volts instead of 120. The 2-15 has coplanar power contacts (rotated 90° relative to the contacts in regular American plugs), and the voltage rating is current is 240V 15A, while 2-20 has two power contacts rotated 90° relative to each other (one vertical, the other horizontal) and a rating of 240V 20A. NEMA 2 plugs and sockets are very rare because they have been banned for decades in the US and Canada. They are potentially dangerous because they are not grounded, and in some cases the plugs may be inserted into outlets of a different voltage. Before the NEMA standard for 120V at 20A, a plug almost identical to the 2-20 type was used. The 2-20 plug fits into 5-20 and 6-20 sockets designed for a different voltage.

Walsall Gauge, UK

Unlike standard English forks BS 1363, the earth contact is horizontal and the phase and neutral contacts are vertical. This type of plug was used by the BBC, and is still sometimes used on the London Underground on low voltage networks.

Italian connector Bticino Magic security

Magic security connectors were developed by Bticino in the 1960s as an alternative to Europlugs or L-type connectors. Sockets of this type are almost rectangular, the plugs were inserted into a shaped slot, closed with a safety lid with the inscription “Magic”, which could only open when the corresponding plug was inserted into it. At least four models were produced: three single-phase general purpose connectors, rated respectively 10A, 16A and 20A, and a three-phase industrial connector rated 10A. Each connector had its own slot shape so that plugs could not be plugged into sockets that did not correspond to them. The contacts are located on both sides of the plug. The plug only connects to electricity when it is fully inserted into the outlet.

The obvious disadvantage of the system is that it is not compatible with Euroforks. Since household appliances were never sold with such a plug, after installing such sockets it was necessary to replace the plugs with the corresponding Magic security ones. However, the system Magic security was initially quite popular among consumers who valued security; The connectors used at that time were not sufficiently safe. When safety covers for type L sockets (VIMAR Sicury) were invented, Magic sockets almost went out of use.

In Italy, the Magic system has not been officially abandoned, and it is still available in the Bticino product catalog, although it is not popular.

In Chile, 10 Amp Magic connectors are commonly used in computer and laboratory environments, as well as in telecommunications plants, as a standard of reliability and safety, due to their polarization, difficulty of accidental disconnection, etc.

Brazil, using a mixture of Europlug and NEMA, later adopted it as the national standard NBR 14136 in 2001. A gradual transition is planned, starting in 2007 and ending in 2010 (retail stores and resellers can sell devices without time limits, but importers cannot import non-compliant devices, and manufacturers cannot sell them domestically).

Multi-standard sockets

Standard grounded Thai socket that accepts European two-pin plugs and US grounded and ungrounded plugs

Receptacles that support different types of plugs can be found in various countries in which market size or local market conditions make developing a specific plug standard impractical. These sockets accept plugs made to various European, Asian and North American standards. Because many plug standards are tied to their respective voltages, multistandard receptacles do not provide protection against damage to devices rated for other voltages. This forces users to know the voltage requirements for their devices as well as the prevailing voltage in the host country. With such sockets, you can safely use devices that automatically adjust to the desired voltage and frequency and do not require grounding.

These outlets may have one or more grounding holes for three-prong plugs. In correctly routed circuits, the ground pin is actually grounded; however, it is possible to determine whether this is so only with the help of special instruments. Even correctly wired sockets cannot guarantee a ground connection to all types of plugs, since it is difficult to create a socket of this design.

At three-phase connection electric stoves, the load on each phase separately is reduced due to the fact that each part of the stove is connected to a separate phase.

With a single-phase connection, the load on a single phase increases. The maximum power consumption of a typical modern electric stove is 8-10 kW, which at a voltage of 220V corresponds to a current of 36-45A. Conventional household wall sockets are designed, as a rule, for a current of no more than 16A, so the stove must be connected to the electrical network either in a permanent way or with a grounded connector designed for the appropriate current.

Different countries have different practices for connecting electric stoves.

For example, Swiss regulations dictate that equipment consuming current in excess of 16A must either be connected to the network in a permanent way, with suitable branch protection, or connected using an industrial connector suitable for the rated current.

The electrical safety regulations of some other countries do not say anything about the method of connecting electric stoves, and everyone is free to choose the connection method independently. Often the consumer himself buys the first non-standard pair of plug and socket for a specific electric stove, and it often happens that they are designed for a current of 25-32A, since the user relies on the fact that the stove usually never turns on at full power. The non-standard nature of the plug and socket is explained by the lack of national standards for connecting electric stoves.

See also

Links

• IEC Zone: Plugs and sockets Wikipedia

An IEC connector is the general name for a set of thirteen female connectors mounted on the power cord (hereinafter called connector) and thirteen male connectors mounted on the device panel (called input), defined by the specification ... ... Wikipedia

This term has other meanings, see Rosette. This article lacks an introduction. Please add an introductory section that briefly describes the topic of the article. Contained ... Wikipedia

This article is about the design, technical features and history of the development of plug connectors. For information on plug connector standards adopted in different countries, see List of plug connector standards... Wikipedia

This term has other meanings, see Voltage... Wikipedia

- (CEE 7/17), mechanically polarized version The contour plug (Type designation: CEE 7/17) has been designed to be used, like the Europlug, throughout Europe. It is used when the device does not require protective grounding, but ... Wikipedia

Adapter for English socket – the most necessary thing in England! Money, reservations, documents - it's all clear. This is necessary on any trip. As for the UK, you will definitely need English socket adapter. Their sockets are absolutely incompatible with ours and with the so-called “euro” ones too.

Of course you can buy this adapter in England. But, firstly, it still needs to be found there, and secondly, it costs a lot of money there. For example, at Manchester airport I saw adapter for 14 pounds. In Russia, in any radio store you can find a whole set adapters, neatly packed in a beautiful, convenient box at a price of 150 rubles. If suddenly you don’t have them in your store - adapter for English socket easy to find in Chinese online stores.

Without this adapter, you won't be able to charge your phone, camera, or shave.

UK grid voltage compatible with our electrical appliances and complies with 230 Volts at 50 Hertz.

Adapter for English socket in a convenient box

This is what the adapter itself looks like

The whole set

This is how it works

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If there are several mains voltage standards in the world, then accordingly there is also a wide variety of socket and plug standards for them.

As we already know from the previous article, two main standards for voltage and frequency have become widespread around the globe. One of the standards, the so-called American with a voltage of 110 - 127 V and a frequency of 60 Hz, is distributed together with the standards of plugs and sockets of type A and B. The second standard, the so-called European with a voltage of 220 - 240 V and a frequency of 50 Hz, is widespread with sockets and plugs C – M.

Some countries strictly adhere to one standard, but there are a number of countries where plugs and sockets of different standards are used.

There are only 14 standardized types of plugs and sockets on Earth. There are also various specialized designs used in specific industries. This was done specifically so that it would not be possible to connect specialized devices to a household network whose parameters they are not designed for.

Type A

Type A sockets and plugs have become widespread in North and Central America, as well as in Japan. But the American and Japanese standard are slightly different. In the Japanese version, two parallel flat pins of the plug are exactly the same size, but in the American version, one pin is slightly wider than the second. This was done so that polarity was strictly observed when switching on. The first networks on the American continent were direct current. This type is also called Class II. Japanese plugs plug into Canadian and American sockets without problems, but American fork You won't be able to use it with a Japanese socket. Well, maybe file down the wide pin a little.

Type B

This type, like the previous one, is used in Canada and the USA, as well as in Japan. It is these sockets and plugs that are used to connect powerful household appliances with a current consumption of up to 15 A. This type, in addition to being designated B, is also designated Class I in some catalogs or by the international code NEMA 5-15. We can say that in Canada and the USA, type B has replaced type A. In old houses, of course, the old type A is still common, without a “grounding” contact in the middle, and in new buildings you are unlikely to find anything other than type B. The industry has long produced electrical appliances only with a modern type B plug, so it is not uncommon to see a modern electrical appliance in an old house, but with the third terminal cut off so that it can be connected to an old electrical outlet.

Type C

Type C, or according to the international designation type CEE 7/16, plugs and sockets have become widespread throughout almost all of Europe, with minor exceptions, which we will consider further. Such electrical outlets and power plugs were standard, including throughout the USSR. Many of our compatriots still call them “Soviet”. Type C has been replaced in European countries by new designs of sockets and plugs that meet modern requirements for grounding electrical appliances. These are types such as E, F, J, K and L. When moving to the new standard, the possibility of using type C plugs was taken into account for inclusion in new versions of sockets, but, to the great regret of the majority of residents of old houses, not vice versa.

Type D

D-type plugs are still common in the former British colonies of India, Nepal, Namibia and Sri Lanka, although they are actually an outdated British-made design used in Great Britain until the middle of the last century. This type is also designated BS 546.

Type E

In France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Tunisia and Morocco, type E or CEE 7/7 plugs and sockets have become widespread international standard. Connecting an outdated type C plug to such an outlet, as already mentioned, is not difficult.

Type F

F-type plugs and plugs (CEE 7/4 or GOST 7396 in the USSR) have become widespread mainly in Austria, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Finland and Eastern European countries. IN lately, this type is becoming increasingly widespread in all countries of the former USSR. You can freely plug a “Soviet” C-type plug into an F-type socket. But since the diameter of the pins of a type C plug is 0.8 mm smaller than that of a type F, this compatibility must be used with extreme caution. Since the contact may not be sufficient, and as a result, heating at the point of contact and ignition is possible.

Type G

This type is used in the UK, Hong Kong, Ireland, Malaysia, Singapore, Cyprus and Malta. The international designation for type G plugs and sockets is BS 1363. According to appearance plugs of this type, it is immediately clear that these are power connectors, because they are capable of passing current up to 32 A. If, when traveling to Cyprus, you come across this type of plug at the hotel, then they will offer you an adapter so that you can connect your phone charger or laptop.

Type H

You will find plugs and sockets of type H (SI 32) only in Israel. But the developers of this standard took care of tourists in advance and provided for the possibility of including “Soviet” plugs, type C, in this type of sockets.

Type I

In Australia, Argentina, China, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, I-type plugs and sockets are common, which are also designated according to the international standard AS 3112. Visually quite similar, types I and H are in fact completely incompatible.

Type J

Switzerland and Liechtenstein have their own special standard - this is type J or SEC 1011 according to the international standard. If you find yourself in one of these countries, you can freely charge your mobile phone type C into local sockets.

Type K

In Denmark and Greenland, type K plugs and sockets (international designation 107-2-D1) have become widespread. In this socket you can plug in type E and F plugs, as well as type C without much difficulty.

Type L

Type L is found exclusively in Italy. But it should be noted that the likelihood of meeting them in some North African countries is also very high. Type C plugs are compatible with type L or CEI 23-16/BII sockets, as designated by international standards.

Type M

The penultimate type in our review is M. These plugs with sockets are widespread in Lesotho, Swaziland and South Africa. The similarity between type M and type D is clearly visible. Type D plugs can be freely plugged into an M-type socket.

Type N

And finally, the last of the types under consideration is N. Used in Brazil and South Africa. Type N plugs actually come in two versions with 4mm pins rated up to 10A and 4.8mm pins rated up to 20A. The middle pin is designed for grounding electrical appliances. Type N sockets completely freely accept type C plugs. But with type J, despite the visual similarity, they are completely incompatible, since the middle contact is located closer to the central axis.

It so happened historically that different countries mainly use their own specific sockets and plugs that meet their own standards, although some types are still compatible with each other.

Will unification be achieved throughout the world and one common standard be adopted? Most likely, yes, but not as soon as many would like. Initially, it is necessary to come to one voltage standard, and this means enormous costs for the re-equipment and re-equipment of transformer substations, not to mention the adaptation of household electrical appliances.

In the 60s of the last century, on the territory of the Soviet Union they switched from the 127 V standard to 220 V. Specially all new household appliances was equipped with switches that made it possible to select the operating voltage of the electrical appliance, which essentially turned off part of the primary winding of the power supply transformer when the switch was moved to the 127 V position. And how many electric shavers were burned when, for example, a person came on a business trip to another city, where the sockets already had 220 V, and forgot to switch the razor switch from 127 V to 220 V. But that, as they say, is a completely different story...

Types of sockets in hotels in tourist countries (UAE, Cyprus, Thailand, Vietnam, Italy, others)

While abroad, tourists sometimes face the problem of a mismatch between the plug and the local electrical outlet. Most often this happens when recharging gadgets or when trying to use a hairdryer or electric razor.

In most hotels in the world there are no problems with charging for a symbolic amount required adapter for rent. Often the necessary adapter can be purchased at your local store. But if you travel often, prefer to stay outside of hotels, or don't want to rely on chance, you will find the following information useful.

To connect household appliances to the electrical network, two types of electrical voltage and two mains frequencies are used in the world:

• European current of 220-240 V with a frequency of 50 Hz
• American-Japanese at 100-127 V with a frequency of 60 Hz.

At the same time, there are no longer 2 or 3 different types of electrical plugs for household appliances and socket standards, but as many as 15. They differ not only in shape, but in the size of the plugs, the absence or presence of grounding.

The diagram shows all 15 types of outlets, they are arranged in the numbering order adopted by the ITA - US Department of Commerce, in 1998. (Some models are similar in design, but they have differences in the size of the sockets and plugs).

Frightened by so many different types There are no sockets. If you wish, you can buy an adapter in advance and travel with it. There are several types of adapters that will allow you to connect your device to a different type of outlet, and there are universal adapters.

Knowing what type of sockets are used in a particular country will help you choose the right adapter, or understand that you don't need one for this trip.

Cyprus

In all hotels in Cyprus, electrical plugs for household appliances and associated sockets are type G. This is the well-known British system with three rectangular pins - one vertical and two horizontal. You can see how they look in the photo. If you don’t want to spend money on an adapter, you can rent one at the hotel reception, leaving a small deposit. The money will be returned upon departure. Some Russian narrow plugs fit into such sockets, so it's worth a try first (without using physical force).

Outlets in Thailand

Thai sockets have either two holes, two pins, or two pins with a hole. Accordingly, these are type C (European socket), A and B (American sockets with and without grounding). Russian and Ukrainian electrical appliances can be plugged into type C sockets without any problems. There are also universal hole options (pictured). Flat-pin plug sockets usually include refrigerators, making them less loose in hotels. If you need to recharge your phone or laptop, then it is better to find an adapter and use such “refrigerator sockets” of type A, and when you need to turn on several devices at once, it is useful to have an extension cord with several sockets; they are inexpensive in Thailand. You can see the exact sockets in Thailand in the photo (universal version). However, if you have expensive equipment, it is better to have an adapter with grounding.

Features of sockets in Vietnam

The type of sockets in Vietnam depends on the region. In South Vietnam - type A (pictured), in Northern Vietnam type C (European). In expensive hotels you may find British G sockets. But everywhere - the usual mains current is 220 V, 50 Hz. There are adapters in hotels, but with a large influx of visitors, there may not be enough for everyone.

India

The generally accepted types of sockets in India are C, D and M. The current in the network is European. Russian plugs are quite suitable for Indian sockets. There are no problems with Euro plugs, but the thin pins of some may not fit tightly and will have to be fixed somehow; in this case, it is better to use adapters. In general, tourists do not have problems with sockets in hotels of any star rating. The photo shows a common example of the type of sockets in hotels in India.

Italy

Basically, sockets in Italian hotels are type F. There is a grounding bracket inside, which does not interfere with the insertion of most of our domestic plugs. European type C and three-point type L sockets are also common. If the plugs have thick legs or have grounding, like a computer, then you cannot do without an adapter. In the photo on the left is a type L socket, on the right is a type F socket in Italy. If necessary, adapters can be bought in any store for 1-2 euros and at the hotel reception they will be given free of charge.

Sockets in the Dominican Republic and Cuba in hotels. Features of the mains voltage

Sockets in the Dominican Republic in hotels are of types A and B - American, with or without grounding. Hotel adapters are available at reception desks. But the country’s power supply standards are different: mains voltage 110 V, frequency 60 Hz. If you plug in a kettle, razor or iron at 220 V, they will work at a quarter of the power, and charging will take longer. Transformer adapters are sold, they cost about $16, although they do not have much power. Sockets in the Dominican Republic in more modern hotels are suitable for not only American-style plugs, but also European ones, both with or without grounding. The situation with power supply voltage and types of sockets is exactly the same in Cuba. Modern hotels in Cuba even have European sockets with a voltage of 220 V.

Sockets in Israel

Israel is “famous” for its unusual sockets, which are used only in this country; the voltage standard is European. Type H sockets are designed to accept a three-prong plug. Old buildings still have the old European Type C sockets. Modern hotels are equipped with sockets where the three-prong input allows you to connect a regular European plug. Chargers and other household appliances turn on without problems, even the old Soviet model.

Sockets in the UAE

Many who have visited this country will answer the question about what sockets are in the UAE and whether an adapter is required in different ways. The fact is that there are three standards side by side - the widespread type G of the British socket with three flat pins, where an adapter is needed, type C of the ordinary European one, which does not require an adapter, and type D, which came here from Old England. In Britain they no longer use it, but in India it is found. Many narrow ones stick into this type european plugs, and with old Soviet-style plugs you can connect through an adapter. The problem can be easily resolved on the spot - adapters are available in hotels. The voltage and frequency in the UAE network are the same as ours.

France

Sockets in France are ordinary European type C and type E (pictured), voltage and frequency are standard. Sometimes you need an adapter, as for previous Tefal kettles, but most often a tee and an extension cord are useful, since there will be only one outlet in the hotel room.

Spain

Sockets in Spain in hotels of types C and F, which are suitable for European standard. In the photo - type F. No adapter needed.

Greece

In Greece, sockets are European standard (type C). In Crete you may need an adapter - there are sockets with three inputs (D in the photo), so you won’t be able to use them just like that.

Maldives

G, J, K – types of sockets in the Maldives. Power supply 230 V, 50 Hz. An adapter is required, but it is better to decide on its type on site. Expensive hotels already have the necessary adapters.

G J K

Indonesia

The most common types of electrical sockets are C and F; they do not require adapters. Less often - British G, then you need an adapter. The current in the network is 220 V 50 Hz, in Bali it is 127 V, there may also be American type B sockets with grounding.

Mexico

Voltage 127 V, frequency 60 Hz. The socket types are North American A and B. Therefore, an adapter is required. Not all hotels in Mexico offer it for free, so you will have to spend a little. It can also be useful on the road - at the airport, on a ferry, in a cafe, so it’s better to buy your own.

Singapore

Types of electrical sockets A, C and G are used to connect video equipment, M - for air conditioners and stationary hair dryers; Hotels have different adapters. The current is European.

Sri Lanka

In four- to five-star hotels in Sri Lanka, the type of sockets is most often British G, although types D and M are also found. The current is 230 V, 50 Hz.

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