Safety for Electronics

Avoiding Electrical Hazards with High-Quality Power Cords

As you know, power cords are the backbone of society: powering equipment, connecting machines, and supplying power to virtually all industrial and consumer devices. However, there are certain risks involved with using electricity and power cables. Thankfully, one of the best (and easiest!) steps you can take to protect yourself, others, and your equipment from electrical harm is to use a high-quality power cord.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common electrical hazards, how high-quality power cords reduce the risk of those hazards, and how to identify ideal power cables. Keep reading to learn more!

Common Electrical Risks and Dangers

While electricity itself offers many benefits to society, these benefits come at the risk of several dangers. When it comes to power cords, there are many different types of hazards; however, the most common include electrical shock, electrical fires, and overloading.

Electrical Shock

Electrical shock can occur when a person touches exposed wires or has direct contact with live electricity. Faulty power cords, poor cable jacketing, or worn cord insulation can expose live wires and increase the risk of electrical shock. Additionally, improper cord placement or inadequate care can create a high-risk environment for electrical shock.

Electrical Fire

Electrical fires can occur for many reasons, including frayed cables, exposed live wires, or low-quality materials. When damaged cords overheat or arc, they can ignite nearby flammable materials, leading to potentially devastating fires.

Overloading or Overheating

All power cords are designed to handle specific electrical loads. Low-quality power cords cannot support devices drawing excessive power, which can result in overloading or overheating. Overloading a power cord can lead to internal cord damage and increase the risk of electrical shock or fire.

How Do High-Quality Power Cords Reduce the Risk of Electrical Hazards?

High-quality power cords are designed with reliable materials, including durable insulation, properly rated wire gauges, and stable connectors. This reduces the risk of electrical shock and fire, as these cables prevent fraying and are reinforced with top-quality insulation. High-quality power cables are also designed to handle appropriate electrical loads, creating an increased resistance to overheating and promoting reliable ongoing performance.

No matter your industry, investing in high-quality power cords is critical for workplace safety: for you, for others, and for your operations.

Identifying High-Quality Power Cables

So, we know that using high-quality power cords is key to avoiding common electrical hazards. But with so many power cords on the market today, how can you identify the quality ones? Look for these signs that a power cord is of high quality for your operations.

UL Safety Standards

Only use cords that are certified by Underwriter Laboratories, marked with a “UL” symbol. These cords have been tested and officially meet US safety standards. Using UL-certified cords ensures higher protection against common electrical hazards and risks.

Jackets and Insulation

Jackets are used to protect a power cord’s insulation. Jackets have different features and vary based on the specific cord and its intended application. Jackets can be oil-resistant, coated in PVC, weather-resistant, and more. The qualities of a cord’s jacket are stamped directly on the jacket.

Insulation is non-conductive and covers the wire in power cables. It is critical for keeping electricity within the wire while protecting the wire from harsh outer environments. Insulation is typically made either of plastics or rubbers. Ensure you are using power cords with durable jackets and insulation to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

NEMA Power Cords and IEC Power Cords

North Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) cords are popular in North America and are available in straight-blade and locking styles. All NEMA cords are UL- and CSA-approved (Canadian Standards Association). IEC power cords are those that have been standardized and approved by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

Avoid electrical hazards by using high-quality NEMA or IEC power cords for your operations. At Quail Electronics, Inc., we offer a large selection of NEMA power cords and IEC power cords to provide you with the best solutions for your needs.

Protect Your Power Cords

Using a high-quality power cable is only part of the battle against electrical hazards. Make sure you’re protecting your cords to ensure they maintain their quality! Follow these steps to keep your high-quality power cords in top shape:

Keep all power cords away from risks and replace any damaged or fraying cords to avoid safety hazards.
Use power cord accessories like cord covers and cable clips to keep cables out of the way and reduce the risk of tripping or harm.
Perform routine cord inspections to examine your cables for any signs of wear, loose connectors, or exposed wires.
When not in use, properly store power cords in a clean, cool, and dry area. Avoid coiling power cords tightly, as this may lead to damage over time.

Using high-quality power cables will help prevent early deterioration and increase overall safety.

Choose Quail Electronics, Inc. as Your #1 Source of High-Quality Power Cords

Ready to upgrade to a high-quality power cord? You can find the right cable at Quail Electronics, Inc. We pride ourselves on our wide selection of industrial power cords for any industry. With convenient same-day shipping, low minimum order requirements, and competitive pricing, we get you what you need at a price that works for you.

The Importance of High-Quality Power Cords for Electrical Safety

Power cords provide convenient solutions for electronic devices to receive the power they require for operation. However, if power cords are manufactured from low-quality materials, they can cause harm to the devices they are powering or, worse, pose a safety threat. This post will examine the importance of using high-quality power cords while considering ratings, regulations, materials, and safety features.

Power Cord Ratings & Why They Are Important

Power cord ratings, including voltage, current, and others, are crucial when selecting the appropriate cord for an electrical device or appliance. Matching the power cord rating with the electrical device ensures it can handle the required electrical load without overheating or causing damage. Using an incorrect power cord rating can lead to hazardous consequences, including electrical fires, equipment malfunctions, and potential harm to individuals nearby. Power cord ratings include:

Voltage Rating: This indicates the maximum voltage at which the power cord can safely operate. It is typically specified in volts (V), such as 120V or 240V.
Current Rating: Also known as the ampacity, this rating represents the maximum current the power cord can carry without overheating. It is measured in amperes (A). Using a power cord with a current rating lower than the actual current requirements can lead to overheating and potential damage.
Wire Gauge: The wire gauge refers to the thickness or diameter of the conductive wires within the power cord. It is denoted by a numerical value, where a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire. Thicker wires can carry higher currents and are often preferred for applications requiring heavy loads.
Temperature Rating: This rating specifies the maximum temperature at which the power cord can safely operate without degradation or damage.
Insulation Rating: The insulation rating indicates the level of protection provided by the insulation material around the conductive wires, ensuring the power cord can withstand the electrical voltages it carries.

Tips For Properly Maintaining Your Power Cords

In addition to safety, proper maintenance of electrical cables is necessary to keep them in good working condition. Appropriate care, protection, and storage will extend the lifespan of your power and electrical cords and allow them to function correctly and safely for their appropriate uses.
Contact Quail today for high-quality, long-lasting electrical equipment, and let us assist you with all your project needs.

Electrical Cable Care

These simple tips will ensure your power cords receive the best care.

Avoid Twisting and Bending

Twisting and bending power cords can lead to internal damage to the cord, which poses safety hazards. Stretching and flexing the cord harms the electrical wiring. Allow the power cord to curl along its natural curve to avoid damaging the cable.

The Importance of Ground Pins on Plugs

ground pin

2-pronged and 3-pronged plugs are among the most common plug styles for consumer use, with an obvious difference being the number of prongs per plug. Both plug styles have two flat, rectangular pins; however, a 3-prong plug features an additional prong. This prong, known as the “ground pin,” is easily identifiable by its rounded, cylindrical shape. It is critical in promoting electrical safety and protecting devices and operators.

Read below to learn about the importance of grounded plugs, their contribution to safety, and reasons to avoid cutting the ground pin. Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. with any questions or for more information about ground pins.

Continue reading The Importance of Ground Pins on Plugs

Office Safety Tips for Power Cords and Power Strips

office hero Promoting electrical safety in the office is underrated yet highly necessary. Office spaces commonly use many electronics and require many power strips, power cords, and high amounts of electricity to power devices. It can be easy to be lulled into a false sense of security around electronics. However, there are still risks involved, especially in offices using many devices at once. These office safety tips for hazard prevention and safe handling are designed to protect your office and employees.

Quail Electronics, Inc. encourages safe electronic practices through education and information. Contact us today with any questions, and our team will happily assist you. Continue reading Office Safety Tips for Power Cords and Power Strips

Understanding Electrical Wire Colors & Wire Color Codes

black wires When handling electrical wires and power cables, it’s crucial to understand and differentiate between color codes. The color of a wire indicates its properties and where it’s safe for use, meaning making the wrong decisions or connections can prove extremely dangerous or even fatal. Before you start working with the internal wiring of power cords, make sure you can confidently identify the role of each wire.

Continue reading Understanding Electrical Wire Colors & Wire Color Codes

Do You Have Melting Power Cords?

melting cord

With proper care and use, power cords are excellent and reliable solutions for powering a range of electronic devices. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks that come with transporting electricity. One such risk is melting power cords. While power cables may experience melting for a variety of reasons, proper education and safety practices will prevent melting or additional hazards.

Keep reading to learn more about the factors that may lead to melting power cables, as well as safety and prevention methods. Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. for more information, and our team will happily assist you with any questions.

Continue reading Do You Have Melting Power Cords?

Don’t Be Shocked What The Holidays Bring!

It is crucial to practice electrical safety. Especially during the holidays! Here is an easy way to remember to be extra cautious this year, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” style!

On the first day of Christmas, my true love said to me, “Check for bare wires… before you wrap the tree!”

moses

On the second day of Christmas, my true love said to me, “Avoid overloading outlets… only plug one device… into each!” Continue reading Don’t Be Shocked What The Holidays Bring!

Why You Shouldn’t Buy Male to Male Cords

I’ve read several stories on why people choose to purchase and/or make these male to male power cords, but for some reason, they’re referred to as “suicide cables.”

Why? See, power cords have two ends: the male and the female end. The male end is the plug and the female end is the receptacle. When you plug the male end into a wall outlet, the female end or connector is ready to be plugged into a device or equipment, which will allow the electricity to flow through. That is a safe connection. BUT, if you plug the male end into an outlet and have a male plug on the other end, this leaves an exposed conductor (which is the biggest NO-NO).

Continue reading Why You Shouldn’t Buy Male to Male Cords

Avoid The 12 Dangers Of Christmas

How To Avoid The 12 Dangers Of Christmas

Dangers of Christmas

Do not use electronics near water.
Never sleep with electronics under your pillow.
Keep batteries safely stored in their packaging, they can be deadly if swallowed.
Do not leave space heaters unattended when in use.
Keep decorations at least 3 feet away from any open flame.
Never play with fire.
Do not run cords under carpets, rugs, furniture, or out of windows.
Do not overload outlets.
Sometimes less is more. Be careful not to over decorate.
Always turn off decorations when you’re sleeping or leaving your home.
Inspect all decorations and discard any that are damaged or worn.
Keep you natural Christmas tree hydrated and water it daily.

Credit: ESFi

http://www.esfi.org/resource/avoid-the-12-dangers-of-christmas-105

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Category: Electrical Safety