All about Swiss mains cables with SEV approval

In this overview, we provide you with a comprehensive description of the features and significance of Swiss mains cables with SEV approval. These cable types are specially designed for use in Switzerland and fulfil the strict requirements of the Swiss Electrotechnical Association (SEV). Find out more about the technical specifications, areas of application and the benefits that SEV-certified power cables offer in practice.

2-pole type C plugs in Switzerland and Europe

The 2-pin type C plug, which is common in many European countries, is also often used by holidaymakers or in private households in Switzerland. These plugs are almost identical to the 2-pin plugs used in Switzerland, but differ in small but important details. A key feature is the slight deviation in the dimension of the pins, which is less than 1 mm, but is sufficient to prevent fulfilment of the strict SEV standards.

SEV and ENEC approvals

For private use, cables that are used in other countries and may have ENEC approval can also be used in Switzerland. ENEC approval (European Norms Electrical Certification) is a Europe-wide mark that confirms compliance with European safety standards for electrical products. However, the slight deviation in the dimensions of the plug does not fulfil the specific requirements of the SEV approval, which means that such cables are not officially approved for trade and industry in Switzerland.

Need for separate 2-pole cable for trade and industry

For commercial and industrial applications, it is essential that the power cables used have SEV approval. This ensures that the cables meet the specific safety standards and technical requirements set in Switzerland. Companies and industrial businesses must therefore invest in separate cables that are specifically certified for the Swiss market in order to fulfil legal requirements and safety standards.

This approach ensures the safety and reliability of electrotechnical products and emphasises the importance of observing country-specific approvals when procuring and using products.

3-pole plug

The 3-pole plugs, often referred to as type J, are the earthed version and offer additional safety for devices that have a higher current consumption or special safety requirements. These plugs have three pins: two for current conduction and an additional earthing pin. They are typically used for larger household appliances such as computers, televisions and kitchen appliances that require a stable and safe power connection. The 3-pin plugs are particularly common in offices and industrial applications due to their increased safety features.

SEV approval

Both the 2-pole and 3-pole plugs for the Swiss market must have SEV approval in order to meet the high safety and quality standards. This certification ensures that the plugs function properly and are safe to use. Manufacturers who produce these plugs must undergo strict testing procedures to obtain this approval. This ensures that all products sold meet the necessary requirements for safe use in Switzerland.

3-pole with C19 appliance plug (16A)

Our Swiss mains cables are equipped with TYPE 12 and TYPE 13 plugs and are designed for a maximum current of 10 amps. They are ideal for everyday use in households and offices, such as for lamps, computers or household appliances.

The C19 plugs, on the other hand, are designed for devices with higher power requirements of up to 16 amps. These cables require special TYPE 23 sockets that are designed for the higher amperage. Such sockets are often found in data centres or industrial environments where devices with higher power requirements are operated.

It is important to note that normal Swiss sockets (TYP12 and TYP13) are only rated for 10 amps. Using a C19 cable rated for 16 amps in a TYP12 or TYP13 socket can lead to overloading and safety risks. A TYPE23 socket is therefore required if you want to operate devices with a C19 plug.

Unfortunately, we are currently unable to offer a suitable cable for TYP23 sockets and therefore do not have a power cable for Switzerland with a C19 plug in our range. It is important to use the correct socket for the corresponding plug to avoid overloading and damage.