Receptacles
Description
Receptacles have an array of slots, which allow plugs to connect and supply current to the electrical devices. They are also referred as electrical outlets. Receptacles are made up of insulated materials such as galvanized steel, nickel, silver, beryllium copper, plastic, etc. The receptacles can also be coated with gold, which offers low resistivity and high thermal conductivity. Receptacles are designed to accept straight plugs, mating plugs, and other types. Some receptacles are used to lock the inserted plugs by rotating in a clock-wise or anti-clockwise direction. Receptacles can admit only the plugs that are matching with the receptacle slot configurations. Electrical receptacles are available in various designs and styles with international standards and certifications to suit different applications.
Types
The different types of receptacles are given below:
Single receptacles
Duplex receptacles
Triplex receptacles
Quad receptacles
Based on the mounting style, receptacles are classified as given below:
DIN rail receptacles
Panel receptacles
Flush receptacles
Wall receptacles
Flange receptacles
PCB receptacles
Specifications
The electrical specifications for receptacles are given below:
Features
The important features of receptacles are given below:
Integral surge safety against peaks in electrical supply
Designed to resist corrosive environments
Protection from foreign or dust particles
Provided with locking mechanism
Includes surge protection
Watertight construction
Tamper resistant
Applications
Receptacles are used in a variety of general-purpose, residential, commercial, industrial, hospital and laboratory applications. Tamper proof receptacles are used in pediatric care environments. High voltage receptacles are used to plug-in window air conditioners, clothes dryers, water heaters, etc.