A 3 gang socket has holes at the ends. A converta, on the other hand, has a knockout in the back and its backbox. The self-tapper is a pain in the arse, but it comes with a sharp point and can cut its hole. It has its disadvantages, however. Self-tappers are also known as "pain in the arse" sockets.
Round Pin Sockets
3 Gang Socket usually have round pin plugs. These are commonly associated with outdated wiring installations and are now used only for a few special use cases. These are particularly useful for switch-controlled lights and stage lighting. They are available in white, black, charcoal, titanium, and champagne. These types of sockets are also protected against direct contact. Here is a quick guide on choosing the correct type for your installation.
Britain has a long history with plugs. Round pin plugs were popular throughout the country until the 1940s, when rectangular-pin sockets replaced them. In the UK, round-pin plugs never truly went away, but rectangular-pin sockets continue to dominate in some countries. To find the right type of socket for your project, select the details link below. The details links will take you to additional information and images of matching sockets.
The British Standards for domestic plugs and sockets have evolved over the years. BS 73, first published in 1915, as amended in 1919 and added 15 A and 30 A sizes. In 1927, the British Standards for three-pin plugs were revised, and GH Scholes (Wylex) introduced alternative three-pin plugs in two-gang and three-gang sizes. In 1969, BS 372 was superseded by BS 4573, which was renamed Two-pin Side-Entry Wall Plugs and Sockets for Special Circuits.
The dimensions of plugs are chosen carefully to prevent the insertion of fingers alongside live parts. The distance between the line and neutral pins is 9.5 mm so that fingers do not meet the pins during use. The earth pin is longer than the other two pins. The earth pin is also longer, ensuring that the earth path is connected before the live ones and stays connected even after the live ones are disconnected.
Dual Earth Terminals
A 3 gang socket is a three-gang electrical socket that features dual earth terminals. The socket has two earth terminals that are solidly connected. You must connect the earth terminal of the socket to the ground with either of the two cables. A metal box must also have a ground terminal connected to it. The socket can be wall or bench-mounted and has an average depth of 25 mm.
13A Fuse
A 13A fuse for a three-gang socket is a common choice for home and office use. These fuses are black and should meet the British Standard BS 1362. They are the weak link in the electrical circuit and can blow if an appliance draws more current than it can safely handle. This safety device also keeps electrical equipment from overheating or even catching fire. So, you should always choose a fuse rated for the same circuit capacity as the plug it is connected to.
A three-gang socket, also known as a three-gang spur, is designed to protect a single socket from overloading by limiting its fuse rating to thirteen amps. While a 13A fuse for three gang sockets may be unnecessary for a single socket, it makes sense for multiple appliances to be protected by a single fuse. It is also a great idea to install a 20A mcb on the board to protect the whole house from an electrical disaster.
Installation of a 13A Fuse for a Three-Gang Socket
To install a 13A fuse for a 3 Gang Socket, you should measure the power consumption of each appliance. Then, you should check the fuse rating of each plug and then buy the appropriate fuse. You can find these at any local DIY store and they are fairly cheap. Just remember to replace the fuse with a similar rating as the plug's current. If you're not sure, it's best to consult the manufacturer's specifications for the correct fuse rating.
BS 1363 specifies the size and type of sockets. In the United Kingdom, 13A fused plugs are required for all homes. To comply with this British Standard, the socket should have a two-pole earthing pin and an earthing pin. Alternatively, if you'd like to install a three-gang socket, you can purchase a three-gang plug with three gangs and three earthing pins.
Another type of socket is called a fused connection unit (FCU), which has a flexible cable permanently wired into the faceplate. This type of outlet is usually used for appliances that aren't permanently integrated into the wall but require safe isolation. The flex outlet is covered by a cover that is easy to open to replace a fuse. You'll need a 13A fuse for a three gang socket if your appliance is below seven-hundred watts.
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