Designing with Angled NEMA Plugs

Hello,

Limited space between electrical or electronic equipment and the power connection can make the direction of the cord critical. An angled plug may accommodate that cramped space without staff having to move the equipment. A variety of plug angles allow a variety of choices on how a cord can be plugged into a power source.

Examples of where using an angled plug may be beneficial include:

• Commercial food equipment that sits on the counter or on the floor with minimal clearance to the plug.
• Equipment frequently pulled in and out of its normal location (reduces the opportunity to disengage the plug).
• Equipment located at an angle from the power source with a need for the cord set to plug in at an angle.
• Applications where multiple devices are connected to a power strip. By choosing the correct angle, issues of plug strain reliefs and cable exits interfering with the next outlet in line can be avoided.

Testing

Just like the standard NEMA 5-15 plugs, the NEMA angled 5-15 plugs are subjected to the rigorous Abrupt Pull Test under UL 817, section 12.5. Clause 12.5.3.1 states: “Six representative assemblies consisting each of an attachment plug or current tap molded onto a flexible cord 0.3 m (12 in) in length are necessary for the test. Those having a ground pin in the up position, except for right-angle plugs, which shall be tested only in the cord down position.”

Interpower North American Angled NEMA 5-15 Plugs

Interpower offers eight different angles of the NEMA 5-15 plug.

Line Drawings of the Angled NEMA 5-15 Plugs

Line drawings shown from the back as if plugged into a socket.

Additional Resources

Allowing for a 1-week U.S. manufacturing lead-time, Interpower can manufacture cord sets with angled plugs to meet specific requirements. Please contact Customer Service with specifications or for more information.

Interpower offers value-added services and free technical support. For further assistance, please see Interpower’s contact information below.