Types, device, circuit and standard size of the outlet

The socket is intended for connection to a network of portable devices, the power of which reaches several kilowatts. To avoid stresses surrounding objects, it is made as a socket connector. It is always used in conjunction with a plug with metal pins. Execution can be very diverse. An important criterion in the choice is the size of the outlet, determined by the diameter and shape of the holes for domestic and foreign species.

Types of electrical outlets

For an ordinary 220 V network, the sockets are made two-pin. Most of them are grounded. The simplest models are designed to work in dry rooms. They can be recessed for concealed wiring or overhead for open. More complex designs provide protection from dust and moisture, are made doubly, can contain switches and built-in RCDs. The purpose and principle of operation remains the same. The design allows you to supply electricity to the device to anyone who does not have special skills.

How does the socket work?

The operating principle of the electrical plug-in connector is simple: when the plug is inserted into the outlet, two contacts close and the electricity flows to the device.

Conventional household sockets are designed for 10 amps or 16 amperes. A more powerful device can not be connected to them, since the automaton will turn off in the shield or in the worst case the plug connector will fail.

Domestic appliances with increased power are better connected directly to the power line, where an automatic device is installed in the control panel.

For low-voltage lines, their connectors are used, through which a telephone, a computer, video and audio wiring, etc. are connected.

How is the outlet constructed?

The construction contains a shoe (base) with metal platforms on which the supply wires and contacts are fixed. All connections are protected by a plastic casing. The plug must not only be plugged into the outlet, but must also be held together with the flexible wire from being dropped through the spring-loaded earthing pins. They are installed in many types of sockets. In order for the earthing to work, it is necessary to lay a third wire in the apartment, connected to the ground of the interfloor.

Power lines are connected via screw connections or self-tighting contacts.

In the holes of the case of some models of sockets are installed protective curtains. In the absence of a plug, the conductive parts are closed. When it is inserted into the holes of the body, under the pressure of the curtains are moved away, providing contact with the contacts. They can also be opened manually.

Various adaptations are inserted in the model: fork push buttons, covers, backlight, protective devices, switches, etc. The overall dimensions of the outlet can be increased.

Materials

The first pads were made ceramic, but now carbolite prevails. The plastic can deform when heated, and the breakdown voltage is less. The advantage is a lower price.

The body is made of strong plastic, which is often designed for interior in shape, color or special inserts. Modern models are supplied with interchangeable overlays for the interior of premises. It is not necessary to change the electrical part.

The main elements of the outlet are metal contacts. Through them, electrical energy is transferred from the power wires to the electrical appliance. The material used is bronze or brass, which has the elasticity to ensure reliable contacts of the plug pins with a socket. In addition to mechanical properties, the electrical parameters of the metallic conductive parts are important, to what voltage and current they are calculated. Here, the value has both the material and the size of the socket and plug: the cross-section of the pins and holes for them.

Classification of outlets

Most often used sockets recessed type. They are mounted in the wall, with which the surface of the shell is at the same level or slightly protrudes. One niche will not be enough. There should be installed a dashboard, in which the model is fastened with screws directly to its body or steel legs, which are laterally bred by means of a threaded connection. For installation in gypsum cardboard, a different type of mounting box is used, where its attachment to the sheet has distinctive features. Under the dimensions of the installation of the outlets in the sheet, holes are cut out, in which four-screw pads are inserted.

The external socket (bill of lading) is attached directly to the wall and is designed for open wiring. Inside, both types of products have similar designs.

The number of poles at a standard outlet is usually two. In this case, there is still a ground contact. It is an important security element that can not be neglected. Especially this applies to rooms with high humidity, where, apart from the ground, there must be an RCD.

For connection of three-phase devices, multi-pole sockets (up to four) are used. Contacts are made round and rectangular. The pins are pressed by petals or springs. The latter are more reliable, since the rigidity of the joint is stable, and wear is minimal. The blade joints become weaker during operation, and when the plug is inserted, it can spark, which leads to burning of the contacts. Nowadays modern flap designs are developed, in which the connection is not spoiled with frequent use.

In the design of the double socket two plugs are connected . In this case, one standard shoe is used, which is suitable for a single junction box. The installation dimension under the double-type socket and its wiring diagram are the same as for the single one.

There are also triple sockets or whole blocks. They include switches, outputs for the Internet, telephones, dimmers, additional protection against electric shock, etc. If the socket is used often, there is no sense in pulling it out and inserting it every time. To do this, select a model with a built-in switch.

Extension rosettes are used that look like normal ones, and if necessary they are taken out of the case and transported together with the wire to the right place.

Important! The dimensions of the sockets and switches must be close to the installation boxes. When buying them, you should immediately select them to create a reliable connection.

Standard outlet dimensions

Common international standards for outlets have already been created, but there are still many differences. In different countries, the size of the outlet, the distance between the pins and their shape may differ. The connection schemes basically coincide, due to their simplicity. To many of them domestic plugs with round pins are not suitable, if flat ones are provided. Differences can be in the number of holes and the distances between them. The dimensions of all are approximately the same.

The standard size of the built-in socket is 185х190х85 mm. If it contains ground contacts, the dimensions slightly increase: 230х190х85. The connection scheme is also changed, as the third wire appears.

Features of domestic models

Soviet Soviet plug sockets are still preserved, the sizes of pins for which are 4 mm, and the distance between them is 19 mm (type C5, without grounding contacts).

For the most part, they are replaced with a C6 type with a pin diameter of 4.8 mm (European standard). They already have a grounding prong. The basis for the development was the German standard. If a spring contact is fitted here, plugs of types C5 and C6 are suitable for the outlet.

The modern size of the outlet is smaller than that of old metal pads, which are recommended to replace, otherwise the steel paws of most models will not hold them in the opening. You can use gaskets, but they will not last long.

Conclusion

To select and install accessories with wiring, you must follow the necessary rules and follow well-known standards. The most important is compliance with safety regulations. All repairs are carried out with the voltage disconnected. The outlet is selected with the required functions and the specified power.