Connector. Power plugs and sockets for alternating current

Electrical connectors are contact elements that can be easily disconnected or interconnected without special action. They can be single-phase and three-phase type. The limit of use of the latter is 380 volts, while single-phase ones can be used at a voltage not exceeding 250 volts. The outlet is the most popular example of this device.

What you need to know

A qualitative plug connector must have a housing made of a durable plastic that is not subject to combustion, with insulating and shockproof characteristics. Initially, a structure must be formed protecting against accidental ingress of dust, oils, water and having anti-corrosive properties that can be used for a wide temperature range and with high humidity.

The plug-in connector usually has a flexible round bracket to hold the current-carrying cable wire. Used for the production of terminals tin-plated reliable copper, which provides optimal electrical and electrical characteristics. The location of the elements contained inside meets the established standard. Incorrect connection is eliminated by using different colors for different voltages.

Special electrical connectors, conceived called "mom" - "dad", took extensive distribution in the temporary wiring. It should be noted that their use is not limited to one temporary type. They are indispensable in everyday life when connecting household appliances with high power, as well as in production for industrial machinery.

Differences between devices

The power outlet is primarily divided according to the working nominal voltage. Today three-pin connectors (grounding, phase and zero), four-contact (3-pin and zero) and five-pin (grounding auxiliary contact, 3 phase, 1 zero) for three-phase networks are manufactured for single-phase networks. On execution are stationary and portable. In addition, the electrical connectors have different degrees of protection.

There are options created for mounting over skirting boards, the safety of which is provided by a swivel washer. So, the plug can only be connected after it is turned into the set angle. The branch of the branch box is carried by the lower part of the device. Specialized plug sockets for electrical skirting are used, they have flat contacts and allow two plugs to be connected at the same time.

It should be noted that some plug connectors have a design that is different from the Russian fork connector. For operation, the purchase of transient devices is required, if they were not supplied in the kit.

Connection details

The connection of the elements is similar to the standard connection of household plugs and sockets, so it will not cause difficulties even for an inexperienced master. Power is transferred to the cable connectors and removed from the plug when switching to an electrical load. The wiring is connected to the contacts by means of clamps at screw-type terminals.

The power connectors are mainly suitable for electric cables with flexible wiring. They consist of a stranded conductor and are the best option for temporary use, as well as a power cable that is located on a vibrating or moving mechanism. To create a quality contact in the terminals of the connector with multicore wires, their maintenance is required. It is possible to use tips instead of tinning.

Electrical connectors have the most important technical characteristic (of course, under the condition of good operability), which consists in the rated current passing through them without heating the contacts. Depends on the magnitude of the current from the cross-section of the current-carrying element and the common contact surface of the contacts.

Design

Technologies, materials and constructions of various types are used for the production of outlets, on which the basic characteristics such as appearance, durability, reliability depend. Basically, all the options look the same, but there is a significant discrepancy in the technical features. A budget plug connector is made of not the best materials and is distinguished by a primitive device. This leads subsequently to a short period of operation and a possible security threat.

It is not necessary to choose economical variants with tin power contacts and plastic substandard casing. It is preferable to use non-combustible materials or ceramics for the outer part with dense electrical contacts having pressing elements and the ability to tighten the contacts.

Basic views

Power outlets are divided according to the way they are performed and assigned to the following types:

• With a built-in RCD - useful in a fire-hazardous room.
• Having a timer - by its signal in them there is an independent shutdown or connection.
• With built-in ejector - this device operates after pressing a certain button.
• With protective curtains - plastic pads are present on the contact holes, they must be pushed by the pins of the plug to use the socket.
• Plug-in connector with ground, i.e., with ground contacts or a special plug. Its device provides initial contact with it, and not with contacts.
• Sockets without grounding are used in connecting household devices that do not have a grounding contact.

In addition, there are differences in the period of use, the protection from water and small particles, the size of the inlet.

Installation

The power outlet can be installed in a closed or open type. The last option is to attach to the walls and became the most common in the open version of the wiring. The closed sockets in specialized cavities are installed and are necessary for electric networks with hidden wires.

The body of the device has not only a decorative, but also a protective feature - it blocks access to live parts, which is especially important in the presence of small children.

What you need to consider when choosing

Picking up the connector plug, the price of which on average is about 800 rubles, it is worth remembering the following points:

• Location of the device;
• The presence of a ground loop;
• Nominal operating data of the connector (current type and its value);
• A quality device can not cost too cheaply;
• Type of wiring (hidden or external).