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When searching for cord-locking mechanisms to prevent accidental or abrupt disconnects from IEC 60320 power inlets such as the IEC 60320 C13, beware of the type of metal locking mechanisms (one unfortunately approved by a well-known agency) that tightly clamp onto notched grounding blades, a tight metal-on-metal retention resulting in a dangerous loss of material on the grounding blade. This friction, similar to striking a flint to produce sparks, creates carbonized buildup around the terminal after repeated disconnects, which could lead to an electrical fire through repeated arcing. Carbonized buildup may also appear on alloy pins if those pins are molded a fraction too close together, the narrow space between them providing small enough air gaps for the current to jump from one pin to the next. This would also apply to metal screws on the plug face of rewirable cord sets.

Global Passports: Designing electrical systems for use on every continent requires a global interface which IEC 60320 cords and components provide. No longer is it necessary for end users worldwide to reconfigure cord sets once they unbox them from the factory. Instead, the end of the cord set bearing a country-specific plug connects to a wall outlet (mains power); the other end of the cord, bearing an IEC 60320 connector, plugs into an accessory power strip (APS) or a power distribution unit (PDU) via an IEC 60320 inlet on the APS or PDU.

Passports to Global Markets Designing an accessory power system using IEC 60320 components eliminates the need for end users worldwide to reconfigure cords once they arrive. By creating a common interface, IEC 60320 products create a common connector interface making it possible for entire designs to be built around them. Like having a passport at the ready for traveling abroad, IEC 60320 products complement any country-specific plug if the opposite end of the cord is terminated with an IEC connector to plug into an accessory power strip or a power distribution unit. It also allows the option of not having to warehouse country-specific plugs.

60320-3 A little over a year ago, UL announced Certification Requirement Changes in a Revision/Edition published for 60320-3, Appliance Couplers for Household and Similar General Purposes—Part 3: Standard Sheets and Gauges on 02/15/2019. These have an Effective Date of 05/12/2021 and may be applicable to your products.

Accessory power systems add marketability and versatility to an electrical product. By focusing on power connections from a central system to the peripheral equipment, only one primary connection is needed.