Connecting plug / socket

Example of connecting a Type 13 plug:

Plugs and sockets should only be connected with flexible cables as they are mobile and not permanently installed. Otherwise, there is a risk that the rigid wires may become brittle and break due to the constant movements of the cable and plug.

Step 1:

To establish a clean connection, the following components are required:

Flexible cable with sufficient cross-section, depending on the protection or load requirements.
Type 13 socket or Euro plug socket, depending on the requirements.
Ferrules for the flexible wires to establish a secure and stable connection.

Using a flexible cable with the correct cross-section ensures safe transport of the electrical load. The appropriate socket ensures proper connection of the plug. Ferrules, on the other hand, protect the flexible wires and establish a reliable connection. These components allow for a clean and secure connection.

Step 2:

To open the cover of the socket, look for a screw on the top. This screw is used to open the socket.

After opening the cover, you will see the terminal clamps and strain relief. The strain relief is responsible for securely fixing the cable later on.

To properly prepare the cable, you need to strip it. Carefully remove the outer sheath of the cable so that the underlying wires are exposed. Make sure that the wires are long enough to reach from the strain relief to the terminal clamps.

Ensure that the stripped wires are clean and free from damage. You may also straighten the individual wires slightly for better connectivity.

Once the wires are stripped and long enough to reach the terminal clamps, you are ready to connect the cable to the socket.

 Step 3:

Next, you should open the strain relief screws. Usually, it is sufficient to loosen one of the screws generously while completely removing the second screw. This will give you enough room to insert the cable.

Please note that the exact structure of the strain relief may vary depending on the socket model. Make sure to identify the appropriate screws and loosen them accordingly to insert the cable correctly.

 Step 4:

When stripping the individual wires of the cable, it is important to pay attention to a specific arrangement. The protective conductor wire, also known as the grounding wire, should be stripped slightly longer than the other wires.

This measure is for safety purposes, as the protective conductor performs an important protective function. If the cable is ever released from the strain relief or the cable is pulled out, the protective conductor remains connected to the connection point until the end. This ensures that in the event of a defect or a short circuit, the electrical voltage is safely diverted and there is no danger to individuals.

When stripping the wires, it is important to make clean and even strips to ensure good contact surface. Ensure that the stripped wires are free from damage or twisting to establish a proper connection.

Step 5:

The wires should be stripped according to the length of the ferrule. In this case, the length is approximately 8 mm.

After stripping the wires, it is important to insert the ferrules onto the wire ends. Make sure that no wire strands are protruding. Protruding wire strands can cause malfunctions or even short circuits later on.

To securely and reliably attach the ferrules, use a suitable tool such as a crimping pliers for ferrules. Place the ferrule in the crimping pliers and press it firmly onto the wire end. The pressure will connect the ferrule to the wire, forming a secure and stable connection.

Ensure that the ferrule is properly crimped and forms a solid connection with the wire. Visually check if the ferrule is securely attached and does not come off easily.

By following these steps, you ensure that the connection between the wires and the terminal blocks is stable, safe, and reliable.

Step 6:

Before connecting the individual wires, please check if you have already threaded the cover of the plug through the cable. It is important to do this before connecting the wires, as otherwise it may be necessary to undo everything and start again.

Once the cover is threaded through the cable, insert the ferrules completely into the respective terminal blocks. Make sure that no bare copper parts of the ferrule are visible. This ensures a secure and reliable connection.

Depending on the type of terminal block, it may be necessary to shorten the ferrules if they do not fit completely into the block. In this case, trim the ferrules accordingly to ensure they fit properly and make good contact.

The wiring assignment for the type 13 plug is labeled with L (for the live wire) and N (for the neutral wire). The protective ground contact is in the middle. Make sure to connect the wires according to this assignment to ensure correct functionality and safety.

After connecting the wires accordingly, you can close the plug and make sure that all connections are firm and secure.

Step 7:

Now, the protective ground wire should be the longest to ensure that the protective ground connection remains intact until the end, even if the cable is loosened or pulled out.

Now, you can secure the cable to the strain relief. Make sure that the cable sheath is fully pushed over the strain relief and inserted into the plug. This stabilizes and fixes the cable sheath.

It is important to completely push the cable sheath over the strain relief to ensure proper fixation and strain relief. This prevents tensile forces from directly affecting the wire connections, which could cause damage or interruptions.

Ensure that the strain relief is firmly and securely in place to secure the cable and minimize tensions or stresses. Finally, visually check if the cable sheath is fully inserted into the plug and securely fixed.

Step 8:

Now you can close the cover of the plug again. Make sure to place the cover with the correct top or bottom side over the socket.

While closing the cover, it is important to ensure that no wires are pinched or damaged. Carefully check if the wires are free and unobstructed before fully closing the cover.

After positioning the cover correctly, you can use the respective screws to secure the cover. Tighten the screws firmly but not excessively to avoid damage.

While closing the cover, ensure that the connection between the wires and the terminal blocks remains stable, with no looseness or shifting.

Once the cover is properly closed, visually check again if all components are securely and correctly connected, and that the wires are not pinched or damaged. This ensures that the plug is properly and safely installed.

Step 9:

After completing the plug connection, it is important to perform a thorough inspection before using it for the first time. Here are the steps for inspection:

Visual inspection: Visually check all connections, cables, and components to ensure that there are no obvious defects, damages, or loose parts. Pay particular attention to the correct placement of the cover and the insertion of the cable sheath into the strain relief.

Mechanical inspection: Inspect the strain relief to ensure that the cable is securely fixed and can withstand tensile forces. Make sure that the strain relief is not loosened and holds the cable firmly in place.

Polarity measurement: Use an appropriate measuring device to check the polarity of the plug. Verify if the protective ground (PE), live wire (L), and neutral wire (N) are connected to the respective sockets. Incorrect polarity can lead to serious faults and should be avoided.

Conduct the measurement carefully and ensure that the polarity is correct before using the plug for the first time.

Example of connecting a Type 23 plug

The procedure is the same as shown in the example above.

Example of connecting a power strip

In this case, as can be seen in the image, a solid cable is used. This is permissible when the cable is fixedly installed, and the power strip is mounted.