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Current rating of twin 13 amp sockets ?

Is there any reliable information as to the current rating of a twin 13 amp socket.

Sounds simple enough, but views seem to differ. I was taught (decades ago) that a twin 13 amp socket manufactured to the relevant standards was suitable for a total load of 20 amps. And I recall that approval testing was done with 14 amps on one outlet and 6 amps on the other.

More recently though I recall respected members of this, and other forums, stating that the maximum total load is 13 amps and not 20 amps. And yes I know that 13 amp twin sockets  are marked “13 amps” on the back. But does this mean “maximum total load of 13 amps” or does it mean “intended to accept 13 amp plugs”

Any reliable views on this, preferably with a source.

And related to the above, I have heard that MK twin 13 amp sockets go beyond the minimum standards and are designed for a total loading of 26 amps. Can anyone confirm or deny this. And yes I have asked MK and have received several different answers !

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  • davezawadi (David Stone): 
     

    I don't understand this worry about the socket rating, just what are people expecting to overheat in a few minutes, and how is this different from a single socket?

    Most folks will not appreciate the ratings or be concerned about what's plugged into a double socket or even a triple adaptor. A plug is a plug to be used; is a duty of care required?. There is a problem with the standards in that this is a situation that's allowed. Is it a risk situation …………. Yes!. 

    Much ado about nothing?. Has there been resultant incidents of misuse? - probably unknown, they would be unreported unless there was a report at the inquest of a fatality or fire etc. 

    Jaymack   

     

Reply
  • davezawadi (David Stone): 
     

    I don't understand this worry about the socket rating, just what are people expecting to overheat in a few minutes, and how is this different from a single socket?

    Most folks will not appreciate the ratings or be concerned about what's plugged into a double socket or even a triple adaptor. A plug is a plug to be used; is a duty of care required?. There is a problem with the standards in that this is a situation that's allowed. Is it a risk situation …………. Yes!. 

    Much ado about nothing?. Has there been resultant incidents of misuse? - probably unknown, they would be unreported unless there was a report at the inquest of a fatality or fire etc. 

    Jaymack   

     

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