Your 4-Point Guide to Industrial Plugs and Sockets

Your 4-Point Guide to Industrial Plugs and Sockets

If you own a factory or commercial premises, if you are operating electrical equipment outside, or even if you are using a caravan or mobile home, you’re going to need to know about industrial plugs and sockets. Industrial-type sockets and plugs are similar to the regular household fittings in that they transport electricity and have safety features built in, but there are key differences you need to consider that make them distinct from the average home electrical parts.

  1. Uses of Industrial Plugs and Sockets  

Multiphase and industrial sockets and plugs are designed for use in industrial or commercial settings. These sockets and plugs are used when there is a need for a higher voltage or current than the regular voltage/current in a household system. These types of sockets are most commonly used in polyphase systems. They are also beneficial when the electrical circuit is outside, or under stress from environmental factors. Certain types of pass through socket sets can be found at CountrySilo.com. You can also use these plugs and connectors in extreme environments such as mines and chemical plants, where it is important to work with the risk of flammable gas.

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  1. Special Features

Because industrial plugs and sockets are often used in extreme weather conditions or places where they need to be protected from the elements, they have weatherproof covers and sleeves that are waterproofed or water resistant. Many outlets are interlocked to make sure that the plug cannot be accidently disconnected in order to avoid electrical dangers. Practically every three-phase power plug will have a ground connection but not necessarily a neutral connection as this is not generally needed in three-phase loads. These plugs have earth prongs and the three phases, making them four-pronged, and if there is a neutral prong then the plug will have earth, neutral, and the three phases.

  1. Types and Standards of Commercial Plugs and Sockets

Throughout Europe the most common industrial connectors are designed and regulated to the IEC 60309 standard. Within this standard there are a number of other standards built in, which the sockets must also meet. Industrial plugs and sockets in the UK are often referred to as CEE plugs, CEE industrial, CEEform or as the commando socket, which is so called after the name of a popular brand of these connectors. In Europe commercial plugs are available in P+N+E, 2P+E, 3P+E, and 3P+N+E. Characteristics of the plugs are represented by the colour used on the connector.

  1. Benefits and Advantages of Commercial Plugs

Good quality commercial plugs and sockets are designed to be ultra-reliable, with stainless steel springs and solid brass screws and sleeves, in order to provide a high level of contact pressure that is kept constant throughout the use of the connector. The casings are designed without sharp edges and inner cable protection is of a high standard. New designs of these commercial plugs are easy to connect and disconnect with a comfortable grip. These types of plugs are tested for use under temperatures from -25 degrees centigrade to 55 degrees centigrade.