Power cords are necessary for many applications, from consumer products to information technology. They’re also used outdoors and in hazardous locations. Power cords come in several different grades. You should choose the highest quality possible. The best cords will protect your appliances, save you money on repair bills, and protect you from electrical hazards. If you’re unsure of what kind you need, read this guide to determine how much you need to spend. This article also includes tips on how to buy the right power cord for your needs.
Depending on your needs, power cords may be either detachable or fixed to the appliance. The latter type of cord has a female connector, which prevents live pins from exposing the appliance. Other features may be included in power cord sets, such as fuses for overcurrent protection, a pilot lamp to indicate voltage, and a leakage current detector. Some cords are designed to be sensitive to electromagnetic interference, including the use of infrared (IR) technology.
When choosing a cord, it’s important to choose the right size and material. For example, an S grade cord is made from a UL temporary lighting 498 plug, whereas a C6 cord is a C6 receptacle. Cords with an S grade are 600 volts, while the SJ cord is 300 volts. P cords are made of thermoplastic and are parallel insulated. Lastly, some power cords are oil-resistant.
When purchasing power cords, remember to always check the plug and receptacle standards. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has defined the various plug and receptacle standards for North America. The most common types of power cords in the U.S. are NEMA types A and B. The latter is more commonly used in Europe and comes with a grounding rod. Another common type of power cord is a C13 to NEMA 5-15P power cord.
IEC 60320 is the international standard for power cords. It specifies the voltage, current, and temperature of the plug and receptacle. Different countries use different standards for power cords, but they are generally accepted by most countries. The C13 power cord is used for most computer applications. The “C” code indicates that the connector is made according to the IEC 60320 standard. It includes different types of connectors for various combinations of voltage, current, and temperature.
Environmental regulations have affected power cords. The RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, and Authorization of Chemicals) standards have significantly affected the use and export of power cords. When purchasing a power cord, always request to see its RoHS and REACH certification marks. This is proof that it meets the standards of the country in which you live. So don’t be afraid to ask for a certification when shopping online!
The length of the cord and the amperage it carries are directly related. The longer the cord, the larger the wire gauge needs to be. A good power cord should be at least 50 feet long. Depending on how much power it needs, you may need more than one. You can also find shorter cords if you know where to look. If you’re using it outside the U.S., check for UL 817 regulations.