This discussion is locked.

You cannot post a reply to this discussion. If you have a question start a new discussion

Interlocked IEC 60309 sockets

I am looking at an existing design which we will be repeating a few times. It includes various sockets from 32A to 125A; all of them are interlocked IEC60309 type.

I cannot see a reason for them to be interlocked. What is the reason for an interlock anyway? I suppose it could be to stop people from poking their fingers into the female ‘pins’ of a live 125A socket but I'm pretty sure they're too small (standard IEC finger is 12mm). There is also the risk of them being disconnected under load and drawing an arc, but that seems a bit of a small risk to me unless in an EX zone, in which case, I'd imagine they're not allowed at all.

Does anyone know the reason for the interlock and when it is needed? Particularly in the case of 125A?

thanks

Parents

0 Richard Henderson over 3 years ago

Andy, thanks. Yes, that makes sense, particularly the caravan site point; I'm sure many children are inconsiderate enough to have fingers below standard dimensions.
However, I'm hoping to find a definite statement from a standard etc that states when and where they should be used. My example is on a ship working in wind-farms. My feeling is that it has been specified simply by being overly-cautious.
Cancel
Vote Up 0 Vote Down

Cancel

Reply

0 Richard Henderson over 3 years ago

Andy, thanks. Yes, that makes sense, particularly the caravan site point; I'm sure many children are inconsiderate enough to have fingers below standard dimensions.
However, I'm hoping to find a definite statement from a standard etc that states when and where they should be used. My example is on a ship working in wind-farms. My feeling is that it has been specified simply by being overly-cautious.
Cancel
Vote Up 0 Vote Down

Cancel

Children

No Data

Interlocked IEC 60309 sockets

Community Rules & Guidelines