An electrical plug is used to connect devices to an electrical outlet. There are many types of electrical plugs available on the market. The differences between plugs result from the power standards in force in different countries, as well as the designation of individual models for a specific type of electrical installation. Find out what types of electrical plugs there are and which plug to choose to be compatible with the socket and ensure efficient power consumption.
Check the plugs at the Onninen electrical wholesaler
What types of electrical plugs are there?
When looking at electrical plugs available on store shelves, differences in shape and design immediately catch the eye. Different countries use different types of plugs and corresponding sockets. On the Internet, you can find a world map with the standards applicable in each country. Additionally, different plugs and electrical sockets are used to power three-phase devices, and different ones to power single-phase devices.
The European standard is type C. Type C sockets have two holes for two wires: phase and neutral. They do not have grounding. They fit both standard flat type C plugs, equipped with only two round pins (without a hole for the grounding pin), as well as unischuko type plugs, i.e. hybrid, with a hole for grounding. The type C plug is designed to work with low-power devices, such as lamps or small household appliances. You can use it in a socket where the mains voltage is 220-230 V.
There are two subtypes of the European standard, differing in the method of applying grounding to the equipment enclosure.
- Type E Plug (French Model) – Type E has a hole for a grounded pin. Type E plugs are used in countries such as France, Belgium and Poland.
- Type F Plug (German model) – Type F has two holes for the wires and special spring plates located on the sides that are used for grounding. This type of plug is used in Germany, Hungary, Austria, Norway, Iceland and some countries outside Europe.
In order to enable the use of electronic devices in different European countries, hybrid unischuko plugs were created. They fit both German and French sockets.
The British standard is completely different. The type G plug (British model), also found in Ireland, Cyprus and Malta, has three characteristic, rectangular pins, arranged in a triangle. One of them is used for grounding. There is often a fuse under the plug, which increases the safety of using the equipment and the entire installation. Additional protection is provided by the middle pin - it "exposes" the socket. Thanks to this solution, small children are not able to insert fingers or small elements into the socket, which minimizes the risk of electric shock. The old British type (D) plug has three round pins.
Of course, when you go on a foreign vacation, you don't have to invest in new equipment or power supplies or replace all your plugs. You simply take a small, clever accessory called an adapter. You'll pay from a few to a maximum of several dozen zlotys for such an adapter.
It is also worth mentioning the industrial plug. This is a special type, characterized by increased mechanical resistance and load capacity. It allows you to connect industrial devices to the power supply in accordance with the international standard IEC 60309. Plugs of this type are much larger than those commonly used in homes, apartments and companies.
When is it best to choose an angled plug?
For easy and convenient plugging of electrical devices into sockets located in hard-to-reach places, an angled plug is used. It works especially well in tight corners, e.g. when the socket is hidden behind furniture pushed against the wall. There are various types of angled plugs to choose from.
What should the trailer plug be like?
If you want to connect your vehicle to a car trailer via a towbar, you need a special plug that will provide the current necessary for the lights to operate continuously while driving. A good trailer plug should provide a stable, safe connection without the risk of short circuits. When choosing the right plug model, pay attention to the type of electrical installation, number of contacts, material, safety features and intended use. To connect the 12V electrical installation in a light car trailer, you can use, for example, a universal 7-pin plug - necessarily of high quality.
Plugs in the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen electrical wholesaler you will find various types of angular and straight 230V plugs, as well as portable sockets and mains switches. All products come from leading manufacturers and suppliers on the market. Are you interested in a USB plug ? Do you need a rubber socket ? At Onninen.pl you can order all the necessary home, office and RTV equipment.
Too much choice? We will gladly advise you which plug-in will be optimal for the indicated applications. Contact us – write or call. Are you interested in B2B cooperation? Check the offer available only for professionals.