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Wiring a Plug


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GCSE

AC Mains

In Europe, the alternating current (AC) mains supply voltage is 230 VRMS. Transformers are used to step mains voltages up or down. This makes it easy to make a low voltage DC power supply. Transformers are also useful for stepping the AC voltage up for long distance transmission over power lines. At the far end of the line, the voltage is stepped down again. High voltage power lines transmit their energy with less waste heat so they are more efficient.

Wire Colours

Wiring-a-plug.jpg

Safety

Selecting The Fuse

There are three common fuse values: 3 Amp, 5 Amp and 13 Amp. The correct fuse should be used for the POWER of the appliance.

Power Calculations

Power = Volts x Amps

Amps = Power / Volts

For a 60 Watt lamp, Amps = 60 / 230 = 0.26 Amps so use the smallest fuse available which is 3 Amps.

For a 2700 Watt kettle, Amps = 2700 / 230 = 11.7 Amps so use a 13 Amp fuse.

For an 800 Watt vacuum cleaner, Amps = 800 / 230 = 3.5 Amps so use a 5 Amp fuse.

 

 

 

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