Plug and Socket Identification - Plugs & Sockets

How to identify types of Commando Plugs or Sockets you have

This page will help you identify exactly what plug you have. Is it single or 3 phase? Is it 4 or 5 pin? Is it 32 amp or 63 amp?

All of your questions are answered in our simple easy to follow page. Covering all types:

Plugs and Sockets Explained

1. Plug or Socket

Connections are made with the plug, also known as an inlet which is placed into a matching socket, or outlet. A right connection allows the correct and stable transfer or electricity from one to another.

2. Colour of Plug / Socket

Plugs and sockets are colour coded according to volts.

3. Pin / Hole Quantity

The plug pin quantity also indicates the colour/volts. 3 pin Blue plug for a single phase with neutral and earth. The 4 pin Red for a 3 phase with earth and the 5 pin Red with a 3 phase, neutral and earth.

4. Earth Pin Position (O' Clock)

The Earth position is the largest pin and its position is indicated by the hands of a clock. As illustrated here if the earth is directly at the bottom, it is in the 6 O' Clock position (6h).

5. Diameter of Plug / Socket

To ensure the correct fit between plug and socket, a simple measurement can be taken on the outer diameter of the plug and the out diameter of the inner socket section.

Use the following table to match plugs and sockets accordingly.

3 Pin	Plug	Socket
16A	43mm	35mm
32A	57mm	46mm
63A	69mm	59mm
125A	80mm	70mm
4 Pin
16A	49mm	40mm
32A	57mm	46mm
63A	69mm	59mm
125A	80mm	70mm
5 Pin
16A	56mm	45mm
32A	63mm	52mm
63A	69mm	59mm
125A	80mm	70mm

At Essential Supplies we keep a huge range of plugs and sockets to suit all outdoor events, marine or industrial power solutions in stock. From 110v to 415v or IP44 to IP67, PCE plugs have a huge range of applications while maintaining a high quality product across the board.

Our plugs and sockets are available in 16, 32, 63 and 125 amps and with 2, 3, 4 or 5 pins which are suitable for use at events, on docksides, on film sets and in TV studios. Designed for durability and with a price to suit any budget, we believe these to be the best plugs available on the market.

If you do not see what you require feel free to give us a call and we will try and source the exact part for you. Call our expert sales staff today to discuss your requirements.

The International Electrical Commission govern the rules for the approval of electrical equipment, they are known as ‘CEE'

The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) is the organisation responsible for the international standards of electrical equipment.

‘CEE’ industrial plugs and sockets are electrical components that comply with international standards IEC 60309-1 and IEC 60309-2, also known as EN 60309 part 1 and EN 60309 part 2.

This page is designed to help you identify the differences between different types of ‘CEE’ plugs and sockets.

‘CEE’ approved plugs and sockets can be found at Essential Supplies, shop Plugs and Sockets.