----- Original Message -----
From: "Tony Duell" <ard_at_p850ug1.demon.co.uk>
To: <classiccmp_at_classiccmp.org>
Sent: Monday, January 28, 2002 06:02 PM
Subject: Re: Need source for high current HP type (with dimple) 14 or 16AWG
> One thing bothers me, though. From what I can see, the contacts in the 6A
> (normal) and 10A (hot condition) connectors are the same. Same size, same
> surface area. So why one type has a higher rating that the other is a
> mystery.
I may be able to shed some light on this subject. It appears that the grade
of a recepticle (now, that _can't_ be spelled right!) is based in part on
how tight the device pinches down on the prongs of the plug. Perhaps a
similar rating is being applied to the cord ends?
>
> I've head it said that in fact both connectors are good to at least 10A,
> but that the normal one is normally wired with 6A cable. But why the
> _connector_ rating is determined by the cable I've not figured out.
<USA>
It's the cordset as a whole that's limited by the lowest rating of it's
parts. Use 14 AWG and by the NEC it's limited to 15 amps, even if it had a
30 amp cord end on it. It might be possible to get IEC cord ends and roll
your own with something like #12 wire.
</USA>
>
> > Also in common usage is a "hot to cold cable" :&) I'm sure everyone here
> > can figure that one out.
>
> Hmmm... the 10A socket (cable mounted part) is designed to fit into the
> 6A plug (chassis mounted part). And obviously that should be safe.
>
> An adapter going the other way, to allow devices with 10A plugs to be
> used with 6A cables sounds to be a rather dangerous thing...
I have an adapter to hook a 20A recpt to the service drop coming from the
pole... Quite handy at times. :)
>
> -tony
Bob
Received on Mon Jan 28 2002 - 20:37:13 GMT