What are plug and sockets?

What are plug and sockets?

A plug is the movable connector attached to an electrically operated device, and the socket is fixed on equipment or a building structure and connected to an energised electrical circuit. The plug is a male connector, often with protruding pins that match the openings and female contacts in a socket.

What is the use of socket plug?

Electrical outlets (also known as outlets, electrical sockets, plugs, and wall plugs) allow electrical equipment to connect to the electrical grid. The electrical grid provides alternating current to the outlet.

Who invented plug sockets?

Since its invention back in 1904 by Harvey Hubbell the plug has not really undergone a change in form, its purpose was for lighting in the home.

What are the different types of plugs and sockets?

9 Types of Electrical Outlets You Can Have in the Home

• 15A, 120 Volt Outlets. These are the most common in older homes and come in two versions:
• 20A, 125 Volt Outlets.
• 20A, 250 Volt Outlets.
• Tamper-Resistant Receptacles.
• GFCI Outlets.
• AFCI Outlets.
• Switched Outlets.
• USB Outlets.

How many types of plugs are there?

The result is that nowadays there are 16 different types of plugs in the world.

What’s inside a plug socket?

Located inside each socket are two pairs of metal strips that are designed to bend and flex, but return to shape when the pressure on them is released. Each pair of strips is connected to one of your electrical lines (either hot or ground).

What are plug sockets made of?

Although both ABS and urea-formaldehyde are used for plugs, they are in fact used for slightly different applications. In addition, ABS is used for one piece moulded plugs which prevent access by the user whereas urea-formaldehyde is used for two piece plugs that can be fitted by users.

When did sockets start?

Original American Hubbell plug and receptacle An early American electrical plug and socket was invented by Harvey Hubbell and patented in 1904.

What is a plug called?

This type of connector is also known as a plug. A male connector can be recognized by the fact that, when it is disconnected or removed, the unshielded electrical prongs are plainly visible. The most common male connector is a two- or three-prong plug attached to the end of the cord for an electrical appliance.

What cable is used for sockets?

2.5mm Twin and Earth is commonly used as indoor domestic cable. The most common use for this type of cable is for circuits that provide power to sockets. It is made up of two cores and an earth core which must be covered with the identifying green and yellow sleeve when installed.

What are sockets called?

Driver sockets: Also called bit sockets, these work to tighten and loosen screws using your ratchet handle. Driver sockets are available for almost all screw types like Phillips, flat head and hex. Pass-through sockets: These allow the bolt you’re working on to pass through the socket and ratchet.

Why is it called plug?

In the 1880s, plug gained its electrical sense, referring to an outlet and electrical connection instead of just a stopper. In the 1930s, we see the word connection emerge as slang for an illegal drug supplier, the person connecting the drugs themselves to the sellers and users.

What is the difference between a plug and a socket?

Typically no energy is supplied to any exposed pins or terminals on the socket, for safety. A plug is the movable connector attached to an electrically operated device, and the socket is fixed on equipment or a building structure and connected to an energised electrical circuit.

What is the history of plugs and sockets?

Different standard systems of plugs and sockets are used around the world. Plugs and sockets for portable appliances became available in the 1880s, to replace connections to light sockets with wall-mounted outlets. A proliferation of types developed for both convenience and protection from electrical injury.

What is the British standard for plug sockets?

British standards have proliferated throughout large parts of the former British Empire . BS 546, Two-pole and earthing-pin plugs, socket-outlets and socket-outlet adaptors for AC (50–60 Hz) circuits up to 250 V is a British Standard for three-pin AC power plugs and sockets.

What are industrial plugs and sockets used for?

Industrial and multiphase plugs and sockets provide a connection to the electrical mains rated at higher voltages and currents than household plugs and sockets. They are generally used in polyphase systems, with high currents, or when protection from environmental hazards is required.