Twist Lock Power Cords: Know Everything!

One needs to consider several factors while shopping for a suitable type of power cord. However, the two primary considerations include the duration your electrical devices are powered on and the expected level of safety from current surges and other unpredictable electrical malfunctions.

Choosing the best power cord for your electrical appliances can go a long way in enhancing the overall durability and efficiency of the equipment. High-quality power cords can also reflect positively on your electrical appliances and machinery's long-term ownership and maintenance cost.

Admittedly, the best power cords tend to come with hefty price tags. But these cords are generally worth the investment, considering their incredible efficiency and longevity.

This post explores everything there is to know about twist lock power cords.

Twist lock power cords have garnered tremendous popularity in the recent past. These cords are particularly preferred in environments where electrical equipment needs to be powered on at all times for enhanced productivity, such as in 24-hour companies and surveillance security control rooms.

More About Twist-lock Power Cords

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), the body governing the usage of power plugs and other electrical receptacles for AC electricity, classifies power connectors into two major categories. They include Straight-blade Connectors and Twist-locking Connectors.

Straight-blade connectors, as the name implies, feature straight blades. These are the standard connectors most people are already familiar with. They're relatively easy to use. You simply plug in one end of the connector to your electrical appliance and the other to the power source.

On the other hand, twist-locking connectors refer to power cords or sockets that incorporate an additional protection feature that locks the connector into place. The lock mechanism in a twist lock power cord typically comes in the form of curved blades that allow you to twist the plug so you can lock it into the receptacle. This feature prevents the cable from coming loose or unplugging while using an electrical appliance.

Depending on the technology used, both straight-blade and twist-lock connectors may vary in design and functionality. For instance, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles are designed to break the electrical circuit if the system gets exposed to water or extreme heat. You may also find receptacles intended primarily for outdoor use.

How Do Twist-lock Power Cords and Receptacles Operate?

Twist-lock power systems include both a male and female connector. The design of most twist-locking mechanisms is such that the male connector on a receptacle features curved prongs. As we've already indicated, these prongs plug into the outlet and are firmly locked into place.

Since the primary intention of twist-lock power cords is to avoid accidental instances of unplugging, the prongs are intentionally designed to be difficult to unplug. You can only unplug the cord by turning the plug in the opposite direction.

Benefits of Twist-lock Power Cords

The main benefit of a twist-lock power cord is that it prevents undue interruption of power supply to electrical equipment and machinery. Once these cords are plugged into an appliance, it may take an earthquake of considerable magnitude to unplug them. Therefore, the cords are beneficial in areas where the consequences of a slight power interruption to electrical machinery may be too grave to contemplate.

Twist-lock power cords also make more economic sense in the long run than their straight-blade counterparts. Most of these cords are designed using safety technology that enhances their longevity and that of the machinery they're connected to. When using cords with a twist-lock mechanism, you don’t have to worry about unexpected power surges, electrical sparks, and even high ambient temperature.

Where Are Twist-lock Power Cords Ideal?

A twist-lock power cord can work with most consumer electronic equipment. However, these connectors will be ideal under the following circumstances;

• In factories, particularly manufacturing and refrigeration plants
• In air traffic control centers
• In surveillance camera control rooms
• In laboratories and medical testing centers
• During real-time machinery and equipment testing
• When working with live stage lighting.

Points to Remember While Using Twist-lock Power Cords

It's important to remember the purpose of twist-lock power cords while using these products. That includes paying attention to what these cords cannot do.

Although twist-lock power cables are designed to prevent the cables from getting accidentally unplugged, the plugs must be carefully turned in the opposite direction to be unplugged. Failure to do that will mean the appliance or machine plugged in continues to utilize electricity.

An unchecked electrical flow could damage your equipment, in addition to racking up thousands of dollars in monthly bills. So, unplugging twist-lock power cords is just as important as plugging these cables in.

It's also important to emphasize that twist-lock power cords are not a viable solution for accidental disconnections occurring in heavy foot traffic areas. Although these cords will remain plugged in the face of tripping, the amount of force exerted when a person trips over the receptacles could interfere with electrical flow temporarily.

Besides, the resistance these cords exert against the pull force caused when employees or passers-by accidentally trip over them could cause damage to the twisted section of the plugs. Therefore, it's essential to practice cord usage precautions whether you're using standard or twist-lock cables.

Wrap Up

Twist-lock cables come with a locking mechanism that holds the cords in place, making them suitable for use in situations requiring continuous power interruptions.

But to make the most of these cables, it's still recommended to take precautionary measures to limit cable accidents.