How to wire an electrical plug English type

This video will show you how to wire a 3 pin electrical household plug.

How to wire an electrical plug English type

The UK mains electricity supply is about 230V although it is known as 240v and can kill if not used safely. Electrical circuits and Fuses, on cables, plugs and appliances are designed to reduce the chances of receiving an electric shock.

The inside of a plug

The diagram shows the key features of a correctly wired three-pin mains plug.

Colours of wire
Blue neutral
Brown live
Green and yellow stripes earth

Wiring a plug

You should know the features of a correctly wired three-pin mains electricity plug this video will help you wire one correctly and help you recognise errors in the wiring of a plug.

The cable

A mains electricity cable contains two or three inner wires. Each has a core of copper, because copper is a good conductor of electricity. The outer layers are flexible plastic, because plastic is a good electrical insulator. The inner wires are colour coded to certain countries:

The plug

The features of a plug are:

• The case is made from tough plastic normally or rubber on some outdoor types, because these materials are good electrical insulators.

• The three pins are made from brass, which is a good conductor of electricity.

• There is a fuse between the live terminal and the live pin, which is rated to the appliance needs

• The fuse breaks the circuit if too much current flows.

• The cable is secured in the plug by a cable grip. This should grip the cable itself, and not the individual wires inside it.