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Portuguese / Português NEMA 5-15P / 3-pin
NEMA 5-15P power cables – 3-pin US power cables, Type B
3-pin power cables with NEMA 5-15P plugs (Type B) are one of the most important connection solutions for appliances with an earth wire in the USA and Canada. In this category, you will find suitable US power cables with various IEC appliance connectors such as C5, C13, C15 and C19, as well as different lengths, conductor cross-sections and designs.
NEMA 5-15P / Type B – 3-pin mains plugs for the USA and Canada
The NEMA 5-15P, often referred to internationally as plug type B or US plug type B, is a 3-pin mains plug with two flat live contacts and an additional earth contact.
NEMA 5-15P power cables are used for appliances that require an earth connection. Depending on the appliance, suitable connection cables are available with IEC C5, C13, C15 or C19 connectors, as well as various cable types, AWG conductor sizes, lengths and plug designs.
Which NEMA 5-15P mains cable do I need?
As well as the NEMA 5-15P mains plug, the device connector is the key factor. The versions on offer cover several common IEC 60320 connectors.
| Equipment connection | Typical selection |
|---|---|
| IEC C5 | For devices with a matching IEC C6 socket |
| IEC C13 | A very common device connection, e.g. for IT, office and industrial applications |
| IEC C15 | For devices with a corresponding IEC C16 input |
| IEC C19 | For devices with a corresponding IEC C20 socket |
NEMA 5-15P = with earth conductor
The main difference from the 2-pin NEMA 1-15P / Type A is the additional earth contact. If the connected appliance requires an earth connection, a suitable 3-pin connection lead is required.
Straight, angled or with a locking mechanism
In addition to standard straight power cables, angled C13 versions are also available. These are particularly suitable for use in confined spaces behind appliances, enclosures or control cabinets. A version with a locking mechanism may also be useful if you wish to prevent the device connection from being accidentally disconnected.
Universal for many standard applications.
For limited space behind equipment.
mechanism For applications requiring a higher level of connection security.
AWG18, AWG16 or AWG14 – why are there different conductor sizes?
For North American connection cables, the conductor size is usually specified according to AWG (American Wire Gauge). Depending on the version, different conductor sizes are available in this product group.
Which variant is suitable depends, amongst other things, on the equipment connection, the electrical load, the cable type and the specific application. The technical data and rated values of the specific product are therefore always decisive.
SVT, SJT and SJTOW – selecting the right cable type for the application
NEMA 5-15P power cables can be manufactured with various North American cable types. The range includes, amongst others, SVT, SJT and SJTOW cables. The cable type should be selected in accordance with the requirements of the specific application.
For B2B, OEM, industrial and export projects, therefore, the cable type, AWG conductor size, length, equipment connection, rated values and approvals should always be taken into account alongside the plug type.
Important when using in the USA
A suitable NEMA 5-15P plug alone does not guarantee that a device can be operated on the US mains supply. Before use, always check whether the device or power supply unit is suitable for the mains voltage and frequency at the intended location.
UL and CSA for US and Canadian power cables
For equipment manufacturers, industrial companies and export projects, the approvals required for the respective target market are an important selection criterion. For the NEMA 5-15P connection cables on offer, you will find the relevant UL and CSA details depending on the item. Please always refer to the specific product description for the selected mains cable.
Quick selection guide
the mains plug Is NEMA 5-15P / Type B required?
the equipment connection C5, C13, C15 or C19?
the technical specifications Compare AWG, cable type, length and rated values.
Frequently asked questions about NEMA 5-15P power cables
What is a NEMA 5-15P plug?
NEMA 5-15P is a 3-pin North American mains plug with two flat contacts and an additional earth contact. Internationally, this design is often referred to as plug type B.
What is the difference between NEMA 1-15P and NEMA 5-15P?
NEMA 1-15P does not have a protective earth contact. NEMA 5-15P, on the other hand, has an additional protective earth contact and is used for appropriately earthed appliances.
Which IEC appliance plugs are available with NEMA 5-15P?
In this category, you will find, amongst other things, NEMA 5-15P power cables with IEC C5, C13, C15 and C19 connectors. The key factor is the input on the device to be connected.
What does AWG mean in the context of a US power cable?
AWG stands for American Wire Gauge and refers to the conductor size. The appropriate AWG specification depends on the overall cable configuration and the intended application.
Can a European device with a NEMA 5-15P plug be used in the USA?
Only if the appliance or its power supply unit is rated for the mains voltage and frequency at the location of use. A different power cable does not alter the electrical rating of the connected appliance.
Are NEMA 5-15P power cables UL or CSA approved?
Approvals vary depending on the model. The relevant UL and CSA specifications, as well as further technical data, can be found directly on the relevant product page.
Further US power cables and technical information
Further information on Type A, Type B, NEMA 1-15P, NEMA 5-15P, mains voltage, plug systems and selection criteria can be found in our comprehensive US guide.