UK 13A Plugs (BS1363 Plug) Pillar Terminals

Pillar terminals are the most common type and are found in virtually all 'economy' (or cheap) plugs. The terminal is a block of brass, and the wire enters through a hole in the side. The wire is secured by a small screw which is tightened from above.

Another 'feature' of this style of plug is that with the lid removed, the terminals, plug pins and screws usually fall out on the floor and get lost.

Pillar Terminals - Class I

13A plug, pillar terminals class1 new coloursClass I appliances will have an earth wire. These typically have exposed metal parts, and the earth wire will be connected to these metal parts. In the event of a fault, the earth wire will carry the fault current, causing the fuse to blow.

Typical appliances include toasters, washing machines and computers.

Connections

The Blue wire connects to the terminal marked N or Neutral.
The Brown wire connects to the terminal marked L or Live
The green/yellow striped wire connects to the terminal marked E or Earth.

The fuse should be sized appropriately. These examples show a 13A fuse, but some appliances will need a 3A fuse.

Pillar Terminals - Class II

13A plug, pillar terminals class2 new coloursAlso known as 'double insulated', these appliances do not have an earth wire. They will either be all plastic construction, or any metal parts will have extra insulation to ensure they do not become live in the event of a fault.

Most modern appliances are Class II. Typical examples include power tools, table lamps, hairdryers and garden equipment.

Connections

The Blue wire connects to the terminal marked N or Neutral.
The Brown wire connects to the terminal marked L or Live
Nothing is connected to the terminal marked E or Earth.

Bar type cable clamp

This style of clamp consists of a flat bar with a screw at each end. The screws are loosened (but not removed), the flex is passed underneath, and the screws tightened to hold the flex. It is vital that the clamp grips the outer covering of the flex (white in this example), and NOT the individual coloured wires.

 

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