How To Identify Commando Plugs & Sockets

 

This page will help you identify exactly what plug or socket you need. Whether Single or Three Phase? 3, 4 or 5 pin? What Amperage and Voltage? Here we try to help answer questions in our easy-to-follow Plug & Socket Identification page. Covering all types:


Plugs and Sockets Explained

 

Plug or Socket 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.

Plug and Socket voltage rating

2. Colour of Plug / Socket

Plugs and sockets are colour coded according to volts.

Yellow - 110 Volts (100 - 130 Volts | 50 + 60Hz)
Earth position normally 4h

Blue 230 Volts | Single Phase (200 - 250 Volts | 50 + 60Hz)
Earth position normally 6h & 9h

Red 400 Volts | Three Phase (380 - 440 Volts | 50 + 60Hz)
Earth position normally 6h & 9h

Pins, holes and poles of plugs and sockets explained

3. Pin / Hole Quantity

The amount of pins indicates the voltage and amount of phases. 3 pin Blue connector is for a single phase, with one live pin, one neutral and an earth.

The 4 pin Red connector contains three live pins for the 3 phases and one neutral pin. The 4 pin does not contain an earth. The 5 pin adds the Earth. Sometimes their is a pilot to ensure pins are guided correctly to one another. It is not included within the pin count.

Earth pin position explained

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).

Plug and sockets technical dimensions explained

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 stock 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, Mennekes & PCE plugs both have a huge range of applications while maintaining a high-quality product across the board.
 
Our plugs, sockets inlets & outlets are available in 16 Amp, 32 Amp, 63 Amp and 125 Amps and with 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.

We also carry a smal range of 2 & 3 Pin 24v plugs and sockets used in Low Voltage applications.
 
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 on 01752 817 140.
 
 
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.

Plugs and Sockets Explained Download

Download PDF version to save / print.

DOWNLOAD

 

Can't find what you're looking for?

 

CONTACT US