TECHNICAL GUIDE
Published: 22 July 2026
Prepared by Rimsan Electrical Cable and Plug Industry
A power cord cannot be selected by plug shape alone. The equipment rating, destination market, connection design and operating environment must be reviewed together.
Start with the equipment and application
Identify the equipment, its declared voltage and current or power rating, and the destination market. A household appliance, lighting product and commercial unit may appear to use a similar cord while their connection and operating conditions differ. Use the equipment manufacturer’s documentation and requirements applicable in the destination market.
Why conductor size is not the only criterion
Suitability depends on conductor material and cross-section as well as insulation, ambient temperature, cable length, grouping, movement and connector ratings. Selection should therefore not be based on a single current figure. The component with the lowest applicable rating affects assessment of the complete cord set.
Define both plug and equipment-side termination
The plug must match the socket system in the destination market, but the appliance end may be open-ended, an IEC connector or a product-specific termination. Earthing, polarity and mechanical retention must suit the equipment design. A matching plug shape alone does not confirm suitability of the complete assembly.
State the operating conditions
Explain whether the cord is exposed to heat, moisture, oil, abrasion, repeated movement or outdoor conditions. Special constructions such as iron cords and coiled cords are not assessed in the same way as a general appliance lead. Colour and outer covering should also be reviewed with the application.
Information needed for a quotation
Provide the equipment/application, destination country and plug type, equipment-side termination, declared voltage and current/power, earthing requirement, requested length, colour and available conductor-size preference, quantity, and any sample, drawing or specification. Final construction is confirmed only after these inputs are reviewed.