The power cord is a common type of electrical cable used in consumer electronics, information technology equipment, and hazardous locations. Most power cords follow certain standards, such as UL 498. The conductor size is measured in AWG (American wire gauge) or mm2 (millimeters). Cords are generally colored according to their country of origin, with green being the most common in North America and yellow in other countries. Below are some of the most common cord types.
Power cords have undergone numerous standards and regulations. The first two have to meet a wide range of safety requirements and code compliance. Power cords made in North America are often certified by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, but some power cords are also UL and CSA certified. Lastly, power cords are subject to numerous international standards and regulations. Ensure that your cord complies with these requirements by requesting a certificate from the manufacturer.
The most common power cords are PVC covered cords, which are able to withstand both high temperatures and rugged use. The PVC coating makes them durable and efficient. They also Streamer Lights come with a safety fuse and a pilot light to indicate voltage. Power cord sets may also include extra accessories, such as a leakage current detector and fuses for overcurrent protection. If your equipment is particularly sensitive, you may want to purchase a cord with a shielded outer layer over the power conductors.
When purchasing a power cord, be sure to consider its length, voltage, and gauge. While the length of the cord is important for its capacity, the gauge also has to match the voltage and location of use. Buying a longer power cord can reduce the capacity of the cable. While the length of the cord is a consideration, remember that longer cords have higher voltage drop and lower capacity. Therefore, go for the shortest cable as it maintains the same power level from outlet to outlet.
The type of plug connector is another important consideration when shopping for a power cord. They are similar to plugs, but they use shrouds to protect the end user and ensure compatibility with male counterparts. The Volex plug connectors are designed with these in mind. In addition to offering superior quality and safety, Volex also boasts an excellent global factory footprint and efficient supply chain. Its local sales and FAE teams are highly skilled.
The most common power cords meet the NEMA standards. NEMA 5-15R, for example, is the most common in sockets, while NEMA 15P plugs are the highest-quality cords in the world. However, NEMA standards also apply to other countries. For example, a NEMA 5-15P to NEMA 5-15R power cord will have a female plug with three conductors. Another type of power cord is NEMA 5-15P to C13, which uses three wires and is rated for up to 250 volts.
The IEC 60320 standard is the international standard for power cords. Different countries have their own standards for power cords, but IEC 60320 has become the most widely accepted. The “C” stands for the code standard used for connectors in IEC 60320. Depending on the voltage, current, and temperature, different types of power cords are available. Listed below are some examples of the different types of cords available.