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We can try to explain what is permitted by BS 1363-1, even if we cannot always give the reasons for the requirements.
5 H6 f/ }& F" W" g( s7 w( n1 j- pTable 2 describes the maximum plug ratings according to the size of cord fitted.
+ e! K7 O8 d# m* Q9 UThe usual maximum rating when fitted with 0.75mm cord is 6 Amperes.
# J4 o7 M" o% j2 {A rating of 10 Amperes can be assigned, provided that the cord length is no more than 2 metres and the parameters for testing at 10 Amperes are used. These are more onerous than for 6A.
! b- U, F6 t) ^& I. J' cThe test parameters used during testing of your samples were appropriate to the usual rating of 6A.
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The purpose of the fuse in the plug is to protect the cord, not the appliance which the cord is connected to.; q1 G: m6 j: Q; y
Table 2 gives the maximum rating of fuse according to the plug rating.
5 j1 [+ v- z& a; T5 P/ ^$ W, D$ xIt allows fuses up to 13A to be used with plugs rated 6A, 10A or 13A.! V% ?$ {6 e6 F& G. S$ G# k, O
The plug must be marked with the rating of the fuse link fitted. 0 t, j/ C/ j- Q/ E, m' B
This means that your plugs with 0.75mm cord are rated 6A but could have a 13A fuse and be marked 13A, but they must not be supplied for use where the rms current exceeds 6A.
+ V! e- t1 p1 Y. N$ o/ o7 F5 Z( d- H(An initial higher current such as for motor starting is permitted).& M+ m; x: o: a' A* v& N. c* z9 }
The plugs could have lower rated fuses but the marking must always show the rating of fuse fitted.
; b; ]- x: b% o. q. {* F) pAppliance manufacturers may have a preference for the size of fuse. |
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