Power cords are essential in many industries including medical, industrial, telecommunications, and electronics. People often receive the wrong products while buying electrical cords for their home appliances. Buying a cheap cord may not be a good idea as electrical appliances are fairly an investment into perpetuating a safer future and you don’t want anything to go wrong with them. Here are some points you should consider while buying such cords.
Types of Cords
You need to choose the right type of cord that suit your purpose. The different types of electrical cords are as follows:
- Hospital-grade cords: Commonly found in hospitals, these cords are often found to be strapped with patient devices and medical equipment.
- Retractile power cords: These cords offer more features in terms of mobility and there are fewer chances of them getting torn into pieces or tangled. You can use these with industrial equipment, home appliances, medical equipment, and computers.
- Retractile electronic cords: These cords are easy to use and can be deployed for various requirements.
- Unshielded cords: If you do not need to worry about electromagnetic interference, you can use these cords with a suitable device.
- Detachable cords: Also known as line cords, both ends of these cords have electrical connectors. While the female end has an electrical receptacle, the male end is connected to an electrical plug.
- Foil-shielded cords: These electrical cords have thin aluminium layers that act as shielding. To build up on durability and strength, the shield is normally attached to a polyester carrier. This gives 100% protection to the conductors.
- Two-conductor cords: With this type, multi-leg, two-end, and one-end versions are available.
Wire Gauge Size
Different applications require different wire gauge sizes for electrical cords. More power flows through a thicker cable so you will most likely use them for heavy-duty appliances. The different wire gauge sizes are as follows:
16 AWG: These types of cords are usually found in the basement or garage. Depending on the length, it has a 10-13 Amps maximum output. This type of cord can be used with household devices, electric trimmers, and power tools. However, if the length is more than 50 feet then there will be a power drop because the wire gauge is quite thin.
14 AWG: These electrical cords can supply 15 Amps of current up to 50 feet. These are versatile cords used to run devices consuming large amounts of power like dehumidifiers and power equipment.
12 AWG: These cords are ideal for power tools and are favoured by contractors. It is a thick wire gauge that is used for a length of up to 100 feet, without compromising on the power.
10 AWG: These electrical cords are not suitable for household appliances. They are ideal for powering an electrical vehicle, fridge, boat, and an RV. This is a thick gauge wire that can supply power to devices located at a distance of up to 100 feet.
Outer Jacket
The outer jacket is an important factor that influence the selection of electrical cords. In cold temperatures, the cords can often turn stiff and it might be difficult to plug them in. The outer jacket insulates the cord against the impact of environmental damage. There are cords available that are resistant to oil, sunlight, and water. You will also find coils made of thermoplastic elastomer that offer superior durability.
It is wise to always employ caution while cords as the safety of your appliances depend on it. You can look for ratings and reviews online to see what other users are saying about the products you are about to buy. You can also gain some knowledge about power cords before making your purchase.
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