To save copper, Britain adopted the ring main system, with sockets connected sequentially, but this meant each connection needed its own fuse. Instead of putting the fuses in the sockets, they were included in the plugs themselves. Hence the UK’s bigger plugs.
Why do they make plugs so big?
They are large because of the physical size of the components that they need. With newer technology, and lower power devices, some AC adapters no longer do that, but for larger devices that is likely to be an issue for years to come. One solution is to use a cable extension between the AC outlet and the adaptor.
Why are UK plugs safer?
Prong Design: Like standard U.S. grounded plugs, the U.K. wall plug has three prongs.Although the built-in fuse adds bulk to the U.K. plug design, it’s also safer: In case of an unexpected electrical surge, the fuse simply blows and the electricity shuts off, preventing fires, electrocutions, and other accidents.
Are US or UK plugs safer?
The fuse and sturdy construction prove the British plug is very clearly the safest in the world. But it’s better than that, because the sockets also feature shutters that prevent children from inserting paperclips and getting a nasty shock.
How big is a UK plug?
British two-pin plugs and sockets
| Current rating | 30 A | 2 A |
|---|---|---|
| Pin diameter | 0.312 inches (7.9 mm) | 0.140 inches (3.6 mm) |
| Pin length | 1.125 inches (28.6 mm) | 0.500 inches (12.7 mm) |
| Distance between pin centres | 1.25 inches (32 mm) | 0.473 inches (12.0 mm) |
Why do plugs have two holes?
Rather than having deliberate gaps in the middle of the metal, the design used to feature semi-circular indents on either side of the plug. These indents were designed to hook the plug to the socket and prevent it from falling out.
Why do electrical plugs have holes in the blades?
These bumps fit into the holes so that the outlet can grip the plug’s prongs more firmly. This detenting prevents the plug from slipping out of the socket due to the weight of the plug and cord. It also improves the contact between the plug and the outlet.
Why do European plugs have no earth?
The British socket requires the earth pin to open the socket so they can have a plastic earth pin. In some case it is metal but it is not connected anywhere. Note how there are just two holes on the other end. That means the earth is not connected anywhere in the equipment.
Which country has the best plug?
Arguably the Australian plug is the best plug for size, stability and robustness. The British plug is laughably big and most countries use a plug that has parallel pins. The Australian plug has splayed pins that give the plug inherent stability.
Why does UK have 3 pin plugs?
To save copper, Britain adopted the ring main system, with sockets connected sequentially, but this meant each connection needed its own fuse. Instead of putting the fuses in the sockets, they were included in the plugs themselves. Hence the UK’s bigger plugs.
Why do UK sockets have switches?
Whilst it isnt mandatory requirement in UK for socket outlets to have a built in switch, most do have , the purpose being to ensure that current flow is broken quickly and the resulting arc discharge of energy is minimised for safety reasons.
Why do British plugs have fuses?
So the reason that British plugs still need to contain fuses is to protect appliances and their cables from the higher current flows possible with British ring circuits. The fuse protects the plug and the cable from currents that it cannot handle.
Why do American plugs not have switches?
Originally Answered: Why do power outlets in America not have switches? The reason why is because the electrical safety codes in the U.S. do not require common power outlets to have ON/OFF switches. They are not necessary from a safety standpoint due to the design and use of the circuit.
How does UK plug look like?
For United Kingdom the associated plug type is G, which is the plug that three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. United Kingdom operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Can I use A UK plug in the US?
Practice Caution. Travel adaptors allow you to plug your U.K. appliances into U.S. electrical sockets. This does not convert the voltage or frequency of the electrical device. If your appliance does not meet the voltage or frequency standards to adapt to the U.S. current, you could damage your device beyond repair.
Why are there 3 pins on A plug?
(i) A three pin plug is used to supply electrcity to any electrical appliance whose body is earthed. The third big pin of the plug helps us to do this earthing. The user of the electrical appliance is then protected against accidental electrical shocks.
Why are plug prongs bigger?
Why One Prong Is Bigger
Polarized nongrounding-type plugs have one prong, the neutral, that’s larger than the other to ensure that the hot wire, which is the smaller one, is tapped correctly. Electricity streams in a circuit, which is a closed path of components where electrons flow from a current source.
Why are some plugs polarized?
Most appliances would work if they were plugged in “upside down.” But it provides a measure of safety for the appliance and house wiring to be aligned in terms of polarity. This is the reason why most appliance plugs are polarized—so they can only be plugged in neutral-to-neutral, hot-to-hot.
Why do plugs spark?
When something is plugged in, or turned on, some of that very fast, hot electricity transfers from the outlet into the appliance, light, computer or whatever. A rapid draw on available power occurs, resulting in a brief spark. This is normal and no more threatening than a mini-jolt of static electricity.
Is the bigger plug positive or negative?
The wide prong is the neutral, or “grounded” conductor because it is tied to the earth at your first panel from the electrical service. The other prong is the hot.
What is the third prong on a plug called?
The third prong on an electrical cord is the ground plug. Since plenty of cords have only two, it may not seem terribly important—but according to national electric code, it’s an important safety feature that could save your life. Literally.
Contents