Electric plug: types and description. Types of electrical plugs and sockets Sockets in different countries

When going on vacation, make sure that you will not be left without your smartphone if it runs out of power. Sockets are not the same everywhere, as are the mains voltages. If the supply voltages in this country are suitable, it remains to acquire such an adapter or find out in advance where to buy it on the spot or order charging with such a plug. In this article, we will talk about the types of sockets and how many volts are in the socket in different parts of the world.

Voltage and frequency

All countries in the world use alternating current in their electrical networks. The difference lies. There are two common frequencies:

The voltages are also different - 100, 110, 115, 120, 127, 220, 230 or 240 volts. At the same time, the voltage and frequency may be different in different regions of the same country, such as, for example, in the eastern part of Japan, a network with a frequency of 50 Hz, and in the western part - 60 Hz. This may be due to the fact that electrification took place at different times or part of the country was part of another country. On the map below you can see how many volts are in which country in the world.

Sockets and plugs

Everyone knows that sockets are used to connect electrical appliances to electricity. Their connectors can be of different shapes and differ in location.

Types of sockets are marked with Latin letters from A to M - a total of 13 varieties, we will consider them in more detail.

Plug with two flat vertical pins - used in America (Northern and Central) and in Japan. At the same time, in Japanese plugs, the contacts are the same, and in American one of the pins is wider than the other.

Similar to "A", differs in that there are three pins - one of them is grounding. A type A plug is suitable for such an outlet. Its design allows the passage of current up to 15A. In Japan, it is less common than "A". Please note that in the socket and plug, one of the pins may be wider at the end than the second.

Type C- more familiar than the previous ones, there are two round pins with a diameter of 4.8 mm, earlier - 4 mm. Used in almost all European countries and in Russia. The difference in diameters has become the reason that modern, so-called "Euro plugs" often do not fit into Soviet sockets.

Type F differs from type C in the presence of grounding contacts.

Sockets and plugs of varieties D and E are similar to C and F, they also have grounding contacts, but for type D it is located on the plug in the form of a third pin, and in E it sticks out of the socket, respectively, there is a hole in the plug.

They are used in India, Nepal, Namibia, Sri Lanka, and the maximum current of these products is 5A. The middle pin is thicker and longer than the other two.

Type E- in France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Morocco, Tunisia. They pass current up to 16 A. They perfectly fit “C” plugs (diamond-shaped as in the picture above, round ones will not fit), and some universal F (E) type plugs - with a hole as shown above.

Type D is also very similar to type M and plugs with sockets of these types are often compatible. They can be found in South Africa.

Used in the UK and Ireland, as well as Malaysia and Singapore, Hong Kong, Cyprus and Malta. Maximum current - 32 A.

In Israel they use H type sockets they are three-pin, the pins can be flat (old) or round (new). At the same time, new sockets are used with plugs with round and square pins. In addition, “C” plugs are suitable for such sockets. (And the voltage with the frequency in Israeli networks is almost the same as ours - 230V, 50 Hz).

Also with three pins is used in Australia and New Zealand, as well as in China, Argentina, Papua and New Guinea. Withstand current up to 10 A.

Sockets J with three pins on the plug is used in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. These sockets are compatible with Type C plugs.

Denmark and Greenland use Type K sockets and plugs.

Used in Italy, and found in North Africa. These are three-pin plugs and sockets whose pins are located in one row.

To summarize: in the table below you see a summary of what sockets, voltages and mains frequencies are used in the countries of the world.

What should I do if I'm traveling to another country with my equipment?

Most modern electronics are powered. And for them, the mains voltage often does not matter. To make sure of this, you need to study its characteristics - they are indicated on the sticker on the cases, or cast on it.

So and universal multi-purpose.

For example, most plugs in the world can be inserted into this one, and it will fit into sockets of the form C (not all), D, F, E and others.

To power equipment like a blender or other devices with electric motors, it is often the rated voltage that is needed, and if it decreases, either the power will decrease or the engine speed will decrease. In this case, they will work in countries with the same voltage as at home, regardless of the type of socket.

It is better to buy electric shavers with batteries, because they are also powered by an electric motor, and in the case of using rechargeable devices, you do not have to change the charger.

Write about your experience of traveling abroad, what sockets you saw and how you powered your appliances in the comments!

There are a great many ways to connect to the electrical network, different types of plugs and sockets, and for a tourist (together with different voltages and frequencies), such a variety turns into a serious problem.

Of the many connections, 13 most commonly used types of sockets are distinguished, denoted by Latin letters from A to M.

Type A

This type is designated as Class II. The plug consists of two parallel pins. In the Japanese version, the contacts are the same size. In the American one, one end is slightly wider than the other. Devices with a Japanese plug can be used in American sockets, but vice versa will not work.

Type B

Used in North and Central America and in Japan.

This type is referred to as Class I. The international designation for American type B is NEMA 5-15, Canadian type B is CS22.2, n°42 (CS = Canadian Standard). The maximum current is 15 A. In America, type B is very popular, in Japan it is much less common. Often, residents of old houses with type A sockets, acquiring new modern electrical appliances with type B plugs, simply “bite off” the third ground contact.

Type C

Used in all European countries except UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta.

International designation - CEE 7/16. The plug consists of two contacts with a diameter of 4.0-4.8 mm at a distance of 19 mm from the center. The maximum current is 3.5 A. Type C is an obsolete version of the newer types E, F, J, K and L now used in Europe. All Type C plugs are perfect for new sockets.

Type D

Used in India, Nepal, Namibia and Sri Lanka.

International designation - BS 546 (BS = British Standard). It is an obsolete British style plug that was used in the metropolitan area until 1962. The maximum current is 5 A. Some type D sockets are compatible with type D and M plugs. Type D sockets can still be found in old houses in Great Britain and Ireland.

Type E

Mainly used in France, Belgium, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Tunisia and Morocco.
International designation - CEE 7/7. Maximum current - 16 A. Type E is slightly different from CEE 7/4 (type F), which is common in Germany and other countries of central Europe. All Type C plugs fit perfectly into Type E sockets.

Type F

Mainly used in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Portugal, Spain and Eastern European countries.

International designation CEE 7/4. This type is also known as "Schuko". The maximum current is 16 A. All type C plugs are ideal for type F sockets. The same type is used in Russia (in the USSR it was designated as GOST 7396), the only difference is that the diameter of the contacts adopted in Russia is 4 mm, in while in Europe, 4.8mm contacts are most commonly used. Thus, Russian plugs easily fit into wider European sockets. But the plugs of electronic devices made for Europe do not fit into Russian sockets.

Type G

Used in UK, Ireland, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Cyprus and Malta.

International designation - BS 1363 (BS = British Standard). The maximum current is 32 A. Tourists from Europe visiting the UK use ordinary adapters.

Type H

Used in Israel.

This connector is marked with the symbols SI 32. The type C plug is easily compatible with the type H socket.

Type I

Used in Australia, China, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Argentina.

International designation - AS 3112. Maximum current - 10 A. Sockets and plugs of types H and I do not match. The sockets and plugs used by the people of Australia and China are well matched.

Type J

Only used in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The international designation is SEC 1011. The maximum current is 10 A. Regarding type C, the type J plug has one more contact, and the socket has one more hole. However, Type C plugs will fit Type J sockets.

Type K

Only used in Denmark and Greenland.

International designation - 107-2-D1. The Danish socket accepts CEE 7/4 and CEE 7/7 plugs as well as Type C sockets.

Type L

Used only in Italy and very rarely in North African countries.
International designation - CEI 23-16 / BII. The maximum current is 10 A or 16 A. All type C plugs fit L type sockets.

Type M

Used in South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho.

Type M is very similar to type D. Most type M sockets are compatible with type D plugs.

October 30th, 2017 06:58 am

In Europe, the voltage in the electrical network varies from 220 to 240 V, in the USA and Japan - from 100 to 120 V - why? Is it really just to create problems for tourists who are forced to carry adapters with them or look for it already upon arrival, so as not to let the phone “die”?
When it comes to electricity, globalization can be forgotten. Even in the European Union, where one currency circulates, there are different electrical outlets. The reason for this is the historical factor.

In the era of electrification, inventors from different countries offered their own options for optimal sockets; different types of electric generators were built around the world. And the national companies involved in the installation of electrical networks supplied their devices suitable for these networks. Accordingly, different types of plug connectors and sockets were introduced and their own networks were designed. The developments of other countries were completely ignored.

Influenced the development of sockets and the availability of materials. For example, during the Second World War in Great Britain they came up with a three-prong plug with a short copper fuse. This design made it possible to save copper reserves for military needs.

Now, according to one classification, 12 types of sockets are distinguished, according to another - 15. Moreover, sockets of one type sometimes accept plugs of another. However, having learned that in the country where you are going, the same type of outlet as at home, do not rush to rejoice! This solution is only half the problem. In different parts of the world, the voltage and frequency of the current may vary.

Classification of types of sockets and plugs in different countries of the world

The most common are two standards: European - 220-240 V at a frequency of 50 Hz and American - 100-127 V at a frequency of 60 Hz. You should not check what will happen if an electrical appliance operating from 100-127 V is plugged into a socket with 220-240 V.

In some countries, you have to keep your eyes open at all. For example, in most parts of Brazil 127 V is used, but in the north of the country 220 V is found. And in Japan, the voltage is the same everywhere - 110 V, the frequency is different: 50 Hz is used in the east, 60 Hz in the west. The reason is simple: first, German-made generators with a frequency of 50 Hz were purchased for Tokyo, and shortly after that, American generators with a frequency of 60 Hz were supplied to Osaka.

Perhaps someday a single standard will be adopted. A universal socket for all types of plugs has already been developed. But for now it's up to everyone whether to install it or not. In addition, you first need to come to a single voltage standard. And this rests on the huge financial costs of re-equipment and re-equipment of transformer substations, replacement of sockets and plugs.

Something about sockets and their use from my own experience

Most often, electrical appliances are supplied with a ready-made system for connecting them to the network. However, there are situations when it is necessary to replace an element such as an electric plug. Choosing the right option is very important, as well as connecting it correctly. In order to avoid unpleasant situations in the future, you should study the technology for repairing equipment.

Types of electric plugs

There are only three types of electrical plugs. These are collapsible and non-collapsible (cast) types of equipment.

Each of them performs the same function. An electric plug of any type serves as a network connection with a current conductor.

Cast plugs have gained great popularity in the world of modern household appliances. They are reliable, aesthetic and also comfortable. The wire is attached to the pins by spot welding. The system in this case resembles a single wire. There is no contact in this case. This method of fastening ensures that there is no oxidation and loosening at the junctions of the wire with the pins of the plug.

The reason for the breakage of a cast plug is a fracture of the conductor at the base. Usually such devices are not repaired.

A collapsible plug will help bring the device back to life. The electrical cord is connected to the plug very tightly. The better the contact, the better the equipment works.

Global plug markings

Depending on the state that produces the presented equipment, there are 13 varieties of gifts and plugs for them. They are marked in Latin letters.

Types A and B of electrical plugs are assigned to American plugs. Type A does not have a ground, and B already contains a place for its connection. Their pins are flat.

Type C belongs to European plugs with round pins without earth. Marking D have English sockets. The pins are round, two thin and one thick.

French electrical plugs with a place for grounding have two round pins. The third is in the socket.

The type F grounding plug is similar to C. Only it has two grounding plates.

British plugs include types M and G. Other European varieties include sockets J, K, L. Australian plugs for electrical cords are marked with the letter I, and Israeli - H.

Adapters are used to connect the plug to incompatible sockets.

Electric plugs in our country

In our country, there are 4 types of trailed and cast forks.

Type C is a non-separable fork. They most often come with household appliances and are connected to a cord.

Type C5 has round pins with a diameter of 4 mm, without earth contacts. The power of equipment connected to such a plug does not exceed 1.3 kW (6 A).

Type C6 belongs to such equipment as an electric plug, which may not have a grounding trailer. In some variants, they have a ground pin. Pin diameter - 4.8 mm. The plug is designed for power up to 2 kW (10 A).

Type C1-b includes collapsible varieties, designed for a power of 1.3 kW (6 A).

Which fork is best?

Among professional electricians, there is an opinion that a cast plug is still more reliable. This applies to quality products from well-known manufacturers.

The connection of the wire with the pins occurs in production by soldering or, in very rare cases, by crimping. The subsequent hermetic casting of the body reliably protects the junction, and also prevents oxidative processes in this segment.

The only weak point of such a product is the connection of the conductor to the plug. If a break occurs, it is better not to try to disassemble the cast version of the product. Having decided to repair the device, you should connect a collapsible plug to the wire.

Rules for connecting plug C1-b

Different types of electrical plugs will require certain installation guidelines for each.

For detachable plugs C1-b, good contact of the wire with the pins should be ensured. The ends of the conductors should be tinned.

The insulation from the cable is removed by 20-25 mm without touching the cores. Rings should be formed around the crimp screws of the plug. The remaining overlap is wound around the cleaned base.

The finished ring is removed and carefully tinned so as not to press the insulation. Then they are again put on the screws and clamped to the stop. Care must be taken not to break the thread.

Pins with wires are inserted into the landing recesses. The outgoing wire is pressed with an insulating bar without damaging the outer sheath of the cable. Next, the halves of the plug are tightened with a bolt and nut.

Connecting the wire to the plug C5 and C6

Here the process of connecting the wire is even easier. The electric plug type C5 and C6 already incorporates special pads. You don't need to make rings. Wire with a cross section of 2.5 mm square. envy up to 10 mm, and from 1.5 mm square. - up to 20 mm. It has to do with connection technology.

Thin wires will need to be folded in half before fasteners. The core is twisted and inserted into the terminal.

It is better to tighten the pads from time to time in order to ensure good contact quality. In such devices, it is quite good.

If the electrical network does not provide grounding, you should not connect an extra contact anywhere. The third conductor is left unstripped as a reserve. It can come in handy when one of the veins breaks.

If you install a plug with a high power limit on an electrical appliance, this will increase its margin of safety. However, putting a plug on the equipment with a smaller load capacity, one should expect it to overheat, fail and create an emergency. Be sure to pay attention to the marking of the plug and the power of the household appliance.

Having familiarized yourself with the varieties of such an electrical circuit element as an electric plug, you can choose the right option for replacing the old plug. There are several types of such devices. Each is selected in accordance with the required load of the household appliance to which the wire with the plug is connected. By making the connection in accordance with all the rules, there is no doubt about the durability and safety of the operation of the electric plug.

DA Info Pro - March 6th. When connecting any household appliance to the electrical network, we do not think about what types of electrical outlets can be. However, you can get into some confusion when repairing the electrical wiring in a house abroad or in an apartment in which foreigners lived before you. In addition, some problems can be encountered when traveling to another country when trying to plug an electrical plug into the network.

Electrical plugs vary by country. Therefore, the US Department of Commerce (ITA) in 1998 adopted a standard according to which various types of electrical sockets and plugs were assigned their own designation. We will write in detail for each type of electrical outlets.

Classification principle and main types

Total exists 15 types electrical sockets. The differences are in the shape, size, maximum current, availability of a ground connection. All types of sockets are legally fixed in countries within the framework of standards and norms. Although the sockets in the image above may look similar in shape, they differ in the size of the sockets and pins (plugs).

All types according to the American classification are designated as Type X (Type X).

Name	Voltage	Current	grounding	Distribution countries
Type A	127V	15A	No	USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan
Type B	127V	15A	Yes	USA, Canada, Mexico, Japan
Type C	220V	2.5A	No	Europe
Type D	220V	5A	Yes	India, Nepal
Type E	220V	16A	Yes	Belgium, France, Czech Republic, Slovakia
Type F	220V	16A	Yes	Russia, Europe
Type G	220V	13A	Yes	UK, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, Singapore
Type H	220V	16A	Yes	Israel
Type I	220V	10A	Not really	Australia, China, Argentina
Type J	220V	10A	Yes	Switzerland, Luxembourg
Type K	220V	10A	Yes	Denmark, Greenland
Type L	220V	10A, 16A	Yes	Italy, Chile
Type M	220V	15A	Yes	South Africa
Type N	220V	10A, 20A	Yes	Brazil
Type O	220V	16A	Yes	Thailand

In most countries, standards are driven by their history. So, for example, India, being a British colony until 1947, adopted its standard. Until now, in some hotels in the UK you can find the old standard Type D.

The image shows the types of electrical outlets in different countries of the world.

Although polarity is not important for a single-phase current connection, type A and B sockets are polarized. This is manifested in the fact that the plugs have different thickness - the position of the plug is important. In addition, in the USA, where they are actively distributed, an alternating current with a frequency of 60 Hz and a voltage of 127 V is used.

Development of various types of sockets and plugs

The widespread use of electricity in everyday life required the introduction of standards in the field of connecting electrical appliances. This would make electricity safer, devices more reliable and more versatile.

And many manufacturers of electrical equipment and devices in practice provide interchangeable cords for various types and countries for their devices.

Electrical sockets and plugs have evolved, among other things, under the tightening of safety requirements. So from Type D, Type G appeared - the maximum current increased, additional protective insulating coatings appeared at the base of the plugs.

Some types of connectors are already obsolete. So the American Type I, Soviet Type I, old Spanish sockets, plugs with cut plugs have gone out of everyday use. In fact, many countries standardize sizes among themselves. And standardization committees are trying to make interstate standards official. The main such organization is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC, IEC).

It turns out interesting with the connection of electric stoves - the maximum power can reach 10 kW. Various countries have introduced into the rules and regulations to use a separate type of electrical outlets for such powerful appliances. And in some places they generally oblige to connect without an outlet in a fixed way.

To connect plugs of one type to an outlet of another, adapter adapters are usually sold. They are found both from one type of electrical outlet to another, and universal - from any to a specific one.