IEC 60320-2-3:2018

IEC 60320-2-3 ®
Edition 2.0 2018-06
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Appliance couplers for household and similar general purposes –
Part 2-3: Appliance couplers with a degree of protection higher than IPX0

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
either IEC or IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester. If you have any questions about IEC
copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication, please contact the address below or
your local IEC member National Committee for further information.

IEC Central Office Tel.: +41 22 919 02 11
3, rue de Varembé info@iec.ch
CH-1211 Geneva 20 www.iec.ch
Switzerland
About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigenda or an amendment might have been published.

IEC Catalogue - webstore.iec.ch/catalogue Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
The stand-alone application for consulting the entire The world's leading online dictionary of electronic and
bibliographical information on IEC International Standards, electrical terms containing 21 000 terms and definitions in
Technical Specifications, Technical Reports and other English and French, with equivalent terms in 16 additional
documents. Available for PC, Mac OS, Android Tablets and languages. Also known as the International Electrotechnical
iPad. Vocabulary (IEV) online.

IEC publications search - webstore.iec.ch/advsearchform IEC Glossary - std.iec.ch/glossary
The advanced search enables to find IEC publications by a 67 000 electrotechnical terminology entries in English and
variety of criteria (reference number, text, technical French extracted from the Terms and Definitions clause of
committee,…). It also gives information on projects, replaced IEC publications issued since 2002. Some entries have been
and withdrawn publications. collected from earlier publications of IEC TC 37, 77, 86 and

CISPR.
IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished
Stay up to date on all new IEC publications. Just Published IEC Customer Service Centre - webstore.iec.ch/csc
details all new publications released. Available online and If you wish to give us your feedback on this publication or
also once a month by email. need further assistance, please contact the Customer Service
Centre: sales@iec.ch.
IEC 60320-2-3 ®
Edition 2.0 2018-06
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Appliance couplers for household and similar general purposes –

Part 2-3: Appliance couplers with a degree of protection higher than IPX0

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.120.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-5860-6

– 2 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references. 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 General requirements . 7
5 General notes on tests . 7
6 Standard ratings . 8
7 Classification . 8
8 Marking . 9
9 Dimensions and compatibility . 11
10 Protection against electric shock . 12
11 Provision for earthing . 12
12 Terminals and terminations . 12
13 Construction . 14
14 Moisture resistance . 16
15 Insulation resistance and electric strength . 16
16 Forces necessary to insert and to withdraw the connector/appliance outlet . 18
17 Operation of contacts . 20
18 Resistance to heating of appliance couplers for hot conditions or very hot
conditions . 20
19 Breaking capacity . 20
20 Normal operation . 20
21 Temperature rise . 20
22 Cords and their connection . 21
23 Mechanical strength . 24
24 Resistance to heat and ageing . 26
25 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections . 26
26 Clearances, creepage distances, clearances and distances through solid
insulation . 26
27 Resistance of insulating material to heat, fire and tracking . 27
28 Resistance to rusting . 27
29 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements . 27
Annex A (normative) Proof tracking test . 28
Annex B (informative normative) Routine tests for factory wired appliance couplers
related to safety (protection against electric shock and correct polarity) . 29
Annex C (normative) Test schedule . 35
Annex D (informative) Comparison of typical conductor cross-sectional areas . 36

Figure 101 – Example of apparatus for inadvertent disengagement (see 16.101) . 19

Table 101 – Pull forces for retaining devices . 20
Table 10 – Types of cord for the rewirable connector/plug connector test . 24

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
APPLIANCE COUPLERS FOR HOUSEHOLD
AND SIMILAR GENERAL PURPOSES –

Part 2-3: Appliance couplers with a degree
of protection higher than IPX0

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
made to the previous edition. A vertical bar appears in the margin wherever a change
has been made. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough red text.

– 4 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
International Standard IEC 60320-2-3 has been prepared by subcommittee 23G: Appliance
couplers, of IEC technical committee 23: Electrical accessories.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1998 and
Amendment 1:2004. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) Aligned with IEC 60320-1:2015.
b) The scope is extended to cover current ratings up to and including 16 A.
c) The scope is extended to cover Class I appliance couplers.
d) The scope is extended to cover appliance couplers for hot and very hot conditions.
e) Added classification regarding the use of retaining devices.
f) Added classification for indoor and outdoor use.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
23G/401/FDIS 23G/403/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
This Part 2-3 is to be used in conjunction with IEC 60320-1: Appliance couplers for household
and similar general purposes – Part 1: General requirements. It was established on the basis
of the third edition of that standard (2015).
The clauses of this standard supplement or modify the corresponding clauses in IEC 60320-1.
When a particular subclause or annex of Part 1 is not mentioned in this Part 2-3, the
subclause or annex of IEC 60320-1 applies as far as is reasonable. Where this standard
states “addition”, “amendment” or “replacement”, the relevant requirement, test specification
or explanatory matter in IEC 60320-1 is to be adapted accordingly.
Subclauses which are additional to those in Part 1 are numbered starting from 101.
In this particular standard the following print types are used:
• requirements: in roman type;
• test specifications: in italic type;
• explanatory matter: in smaller roman type.
A list of all parts in the IEC 60320 series, published under the general title Appliance couplers
for household and similar general purposes, can be found on the IEC website.

The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The “colour inside” logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this publication using a colour printer.

– 6 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
APPLIANCE COUPLERS FOR HOUSEHOLD
AND SIMILAR GENERAL PURPOSES –

Part 2-3: Appliance couplers with a degree
of protection higher than IPX0

1 Scope
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows with the following addition:
This standard applies to two-pole non-reversible appliance couplers for cold conditions for
a.c. only, with a degree of protection against ingress of water higher than IPX0, with a rated
voltage not exceeding 250 V and a rated current not exceeding 10 A for a 50 Hz or 60 Hz
supply.
They are intended for the connection of the supply cord to portable electrical appliances of
class II for household, commercial and light industrial use.
NOTE 1 – This note of IEC 60320-1 applies.
NOTE 2 – This note of IEC 60320-1 applies.
NOTE 3 – This note of IEC 60320-1 applies.
NOTE 4 – This note of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
NOTE 5 – This note of IEC 60320-1 applies.
Additional notes:
NOTE 6 – IEC 60529 specifies the degree of protection against the ingress of water (IP code).
NOTE 7 – IEC 60536 specifies the class of equipment.
This document applies to appliance couplers with a degree of protection against ingress of
water higher than IPX0.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies with the following additions:
IEC 60320-1:1994, Appliance couplers for household and similar general purposes – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 60320-3, Appliance couplers for household and similar general purposes – Part 3:
Standard sheets and gauges
IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)

3 Terms and definitions
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies with the following additions:
3.101
plug connector
appliance inlet intended to be attached by a cord to equipment
3.102 3.101
accessible surface of an accessory
surface of an accessory that can be touched by means of the test finger shown in figure 10 of
IEC 60320-1 probe B of IEC 61032 (standard test finger), when the accessory is assembled
as in normal use and in the following conditions:
a) for connectors and appliance outlets: without the complementary accessory in
engagement but with the cover in the open position;
b) for plug connectors and appliance inlets: with the complementary accessory in the most
unfavourable degree of engagement but such that electrical contact is made between the
contacts (pins and tubes).
3.103 3.102
cover
part that is accessible when the accessory is in normal use and removable only with the use
of a tool, but which does not require the use of a tool to open it
3.104
type test sample
sample consisting of one or more similar specimens submitted for the purpose of a type test.
4 General requirements
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
5 General notes on tests
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows.
5.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
5.2 Replacement:
Unless otherwise specified, the specimens are tested as delivered and under normal
conditions of use, at an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C; they are tested with a.c. at 50
Hz or 60 Hz.
The specimens used for the tests shall be substantially identical to normal production items in
respect of all details which may affect the test results.
Non-rewirable accessories shall be submitted with a cord at least 1 m long. The cord used for
testing rewirable accessories shall be a sheathed circular flexible cord complying with
60227 IEC 53 unless otherwise specified in a particular clause.
5.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
5.4 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.

– 8 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
5.5 Replacement:
A total sample comprising 18 specimens, of any one type, shall be submitted to inspection
and tests as given in the following table:
Test Number of Order of tests
specimen (clause and subclause references)
s
1 Visual inspection and 3 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 24.1, 25, 26, 28
manual examination
2 General tests 3 14 (except 14.101), 15
3 General tests 3 22 (except 22.4), 16, 17, 19, 20, 21
4 Flexing test 3 22.4
5 Material test 3 23, 24.2, 14.101, 15.3
6 Material test 3 24.2, 27
NOTE 1 – If any particular test is repeated, as part of the normal sequence, this requirement is specified in the
appropriate clause.
NOTE 2 – With the agreement of the manufacturer the same specimen may be used for more than one test
sequence.
5.6 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
5.7 Replacement:
If no accessory fails in the complete series of tests specified in 5.5, then the accessories of
that type are considered to comply with this standard.
If one accessory in any group fails in the complete series of tests specified in 5.5, then the
accessories of that type are considered to have failed to comply with this standard, unless
that accessory can be shown not to be of normal production or design, in which case a further
set of accessories shall be submitted to the test or tests in that group. If there is no failure in
this retest then the accessories of that type shall be deemed to comply with this standard.
If more than one accessory fails in the complete series of tests specified in 5.5, the
accessories of that type shall be deemed to have failed to comply with this standard.
6 Standard ratings
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows.
6.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
6.2 Replacement:
The rated current is 10 A.
7 Classification
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows with the following additions:
7.1.1 Amendment:
Only the reference to cold conditions applies.
7.1.2 Amendment:
Only the reference to class II equipment applies.
7.2 Replacement:
Accessories are classified, according to the method of connecting the cord, as:
– rewirable accessories;
– non-rewirable accessories.
Additional subclause:
7.101 Add a new classification:
Accessories are classified, according to the ambient temperature for their use, as:
– appliance couplers for use in normal temperature;
– appliance couplers for use in low temperature (–15 °C).
NOTE – Additional tests are under consideration for appliance couplers for use in low temperature.
7.101 Retaining devices:
a) with retaining device
b) without retaining device
7.102 Appliance coupler without retaining device.
NOTE Only to be used where permitted by the end product standard.
8 Marking
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows:
8.1 Replacement:
Couplers, except for appliance inlets supplied with the equipment, shall be marked with:
a) name, trade mark or identification mark of the maker or responsible vendor;
b) number of this standard;
c) rated current;
d) rated voltage;
e) symbol for nature of supply;
f) IP rating;
g) type reference, which may be a catalogue number, code number, etc.
8.2 Replacement:
Appliance inlets shall be marked with the information given in 8.1 a) and 8.1 g) which need
not be visible when installed for use outdoors.

– 10 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
NOTE – The marking on connectors and appliance inlets need not be visible when these are connected together.
8.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
8.4 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies with the following additional symbols:
Line L
Neutral N
Protected against splashing water IPX4
NOTE – In the IP code the letter X, concerning protection against ingress of solid objects, is replaced by the
relevant number.
8.5 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
8.6 Amendment:
This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies except for the reference to earthing contact and
earthing terminal.
8.7 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
8.8 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
8.2 Addition:
– IP rating.
8.4 Addition:
IP rating for example IPX4
NOTE 101 In the IP code the letter "X” is replaced by the relevant number.
Additional subclauses (following 8.8):
8.101 Colours of outdoor cables
Cords of non-rewirable accessories for outdoor use shall not be coloured black, green, white
or brown.
8.102 Instructions for retail sale
For couplers intended for retail sale the supplier shall include an instruction leaflet, on or
inside the sales package, with each coupler or accessory, clearly describing the extent of its
suitability for use outdoors. Information regarding weather resistance shall be clearly visible to
the purchaser and a recommendation shall be made that the cord to be fitted to the accessory
should not be coloured black, green, white or brown. The instruction sheet shall include
information stating that the plug connector shall be connected to the equipment and the
connector to the mains supply side.
If the coupler or accessory is non-rewirable with a cord attached, each free end shall be
marked for connection to the appliance or mains supply as appropriate, with guidance on the
danger of an incorrect connection or of a connection to an appliance requiring the protection
of an earth continuity conductor.
Except when a plug connector or appliance inlet fitted with a cord is supplied direct to a
manufacturer for incorporation in other equipment, the free end of such an assembly shall
have a label attached stating:

"The cord of this accessory must be properly connected to a piece of equipment before the
appliance is energized."
If the coupler or accessory is rewirable, instructions shall be provided on the following:
a) stripping lengths for sheath and insulation;
b) identity of accessories to be connected to appliance or mains cord, as appropriate;
c) connection of brown wire to terminal marked L and blue wire to terminal marked N;
d) importance of correct assembly of cord anchorage including need for at least 3 mm of
sheath to protrude beyond the clamping device;
e) suitable for use with circular type cords only.
Compliance with the requirements of 8.101 and 8.102 is checked by inspection.
9 Dimensions and compatibility
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows with the following addition:
9.1 Replacement:
Couplers shall comply with the appropriate dimensions given in standard sheets A and B of
this standard, except as permitted by 9.6.
Compliance is checked by measurement and, where relevant, by the use of the appropriate
gauge(s) shown in figures 1 and 2.
When the gauge shown in figure 1 is used it shall be possible to insert the connector fully into
the gauge with a force not exceeding 60 N. To verify correct and full insertion the gauge insert
shall be provided with an aperture.
When the primary and supplementary gauges of figure 2 are used it shall be possible to insert
the primary gauge fully into the appliance inlet with a force not exceeding 60 N. The
supplementary gauge shall be pushed over the bar.
Planes shall be provided with the primary gauge to check pin and shroud lengths; successful
engagement of the supplementary gauge checks the appliance inlet outer recess.
9.2 Replacement:
Provision for retaining the connector in the plug connector or appliance inlet shall comply with
standard sheets A and B.
Compliance is checked by the tests of clause 16.
9.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
9.4 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
9.5 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
9.6 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
Additional subclause (following 9.5):

– 12 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
9.101 Retaining devices
For standardized appliance couplers the provision for retaining the connector in the plug
connector or appliance inlet shall comply with the relevant standard sheets.
NOTE The relevant standard sheets can be found in IEC 60320-3.
Compliance is checked by the tests of 16.101.
For non-standardized appliance couplers the provision for retaining the connector in the plug
connector or appliance inlet shall comply with the manufacturer’s specifications.
10 Protection against electric shock
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows:
10.1 Replacement:
Appliance couplers shall be so designed that live parts of appliance inlets are not accessible
when the connector is in partial or complete engagement.
Connectors shall be so designed that live parts are not accessible when the connector is
properly assembled and wired as in normal use, but with the cover open.
Compliance is checked by inspection and, if necessary, by a test with the test finger shown in
figure 10 of IEC 60320-1. This finger is applied in every possible position, an electrical
indicator being used to show contact with the relevant parts. For connectors with shrouds,
enclosures or bodies of elastomeric or thermoplastic material, the test finger is applied for
30 s ± 5 s with a force of 20 N ± 3 N at all points where yielding of the insulating material
could impair the safety of the connector; this test is made at an ambient temperature of 35 °C
± 2 °C.
NOTE 1 – An electrical indicator with a voltage between 40 V and 50 V is used to show contact with the relevant
part.
NOTE 2 – Conformity to the standard sheets ensures compliance with the requirements so far as the inaccessibility
of contact members during insertion of a connector into an appliance inlet is concerned.
10.2 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
10.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
10.4 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
10.1 Addition after the second paragraph:
Test is performed with the cover open.
11 Provision for earthing
This clause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply applies.
12 Terminals and terminations
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows applies.

12.1 General
The requirements of this subclause apply only to connectors and plug connectors.
For appliance inlets submitted as individual accessories not integrated or incorporated in an
electrical appliance or equipment, particular requirements may be needed.
For appliance inlets integrated or incorporated in an electrical appliance or equipment, the
requirements in the appropriate IEC standard for that equipment shall apply.
12.1.1 Replacement of first paragraph:
Rewirable accessories shall be provided with terminals with screw clamping.
Replacement of third paragraph:
Non-rewirable accessories shall be provided with soldered, welded, crimped or equally
effective screwless connections, which shall not allow disconnection of the conductor:
screwed connections shall not be used.
12.1.2 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.1.3 Replacement:
Rewirable accessories shall have terminals suitable for the connection of cords complying
with 60227 IEC 53 and having conductor nominal cross-sectional areas of 0,75 mm and
1 mm .
Compliance is checked by inspection, by measurement and by fitting conductors having
2 2
nominal cross-sectional areas of 0,75 mm and 1 mm .
12.2 Screw-type terminals
12.2.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.2.2 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.2.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.2.4 Replacement of fourth paragraph:
Each conductor is then subjected to a pull of 30 N ± 3 N applied without jerks for 60 s ± 5 s in
the direction of the axis of the conductor space.
12.2.5 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.2.6 Replacement of third paragraph:
Terminals are fitted with a 1 mm conductor.
12.2.7 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
12.2.8 Replacement of third paragraph:
A solid rigid copper conductor of 1 mm nominal cross-sectional area is placed in the
terminal.
– 14 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
12.2.9 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
12.2.10 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
12.2.11 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
12.2.12 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
The test conductor shall have a nominal cross-sectional area of 1 mm .
13 Construction
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows with the following additions:
13.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
13.2 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
13.3 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
13.4 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
13.5 Replacement:
Contacts of connectors shall be self-adjusting so as to provide adequate contact pressure.
The self-adjustment of the contacts shall not depend upon the resiliency of the insulating
material.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by using the withdrawal pull gauge shown in figure
4 to check each individual line and neutral contact, ensuring that the hinged cover of the
enclosure does not have any effect on the results of the test. During the test the connector
contact shall retain the gauge for not less than 30 s when the connector is held vertically and
the gauge is hanging downwards.
13.6 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies to all rewirable accessories.
The enclosure of rewirable accessories shall consist of more than one part and shall
completely enclose the terminals and the end of the cord.
NOTE – Parts of the enclosure linked together by flexible means are considered to be separate parts.
The construction shall be such that, from the point of separation of the cores, the conductors
can be properly connected and that, when the accessory is assembled and wired as in normal
use, there is no risk of:
– the cores being pressed against each other;
– a core coming into contact with accessible metal parts;
– a core coming into contact with other live parts.
13.7 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
13.8 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies to connectors and to plug connectors.

13.9 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
13.10 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies to connectors and to plug connectors.
13.11 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply.
13.12 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
Additional subclauses (following 13.10):
13.101 Protection against ingress of water when in engagement
Appliance couplers shall incorporate means for ensuring the required degree of protection
against ingress of water when the inlet, plug connector and connector are in complete
engagement with the complementary accessory both parts of the appliance couplers are fully
engaged.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the test of 14.101.
13.102 Protection against ingress of water when not in engagement
A connector or plug connector, when fitted with a cord for normal use and when not in
engagement with the complementary accessory, shall comply with Clause 10 and 14.101.
13.103 Covers for protection against ingress of water when not in engagement
Connectors and appliance outlets shall be provided with a cover to achieve the required
degree of protection against moisture when the complementary accessory is not in position.
The cover of a standardized appliance coupler shall be self-closing and shall be securely
fixed to the connector or appliance outlet.
Compliance with the requirements of 13.102 and 13.103 is checked by the tests of
Clauses 10, 20, 23, 28 and 14.101.
13.104 Protection against ingress of water for integrated appliance couplers
Appliance inlets and appliance outlets integrated or incorporated in the electrical appliance or
equipment shall incorporate means of ensuring the required degree of protection against
ingress of water, from the open interface to the terminals or terminations.
Non-rewirable plug connectors for incorporation in equipment shall be fitted with a cord of
500 mm or less (measured from the point of entry of the cord into the plug connector to the
point of entry of the cord into the equipment).
Compliance is checked by inspection and the test of 14.101.
13.105 Requirements for cover springs
The cover spring(s), if any, of a connector when fitted with a flexible cord as in normal use,
connectors and appliance outlets shall be sufficiently strong to rapidly close the cover when
the complementary accessory is not engaged, and to withstand opening and closing in normal
operation to an angle of not less than 90° and not more than 100°. The cover and associated
spring(s), if any, shall withstand damage when opened to the fullest extent and shall be of
corrosion-resistant materials.
This test is not applicable to couplers without retaining device, classified in 7.102.

– 16 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
Compliance with the requirements for corrosion-resistant materials is checked by the test of
Clause 28.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the following test. At the end of the test the
cover shall close as required by this document.
The cover shall be opened to its fullest extent and allowed to close under the influence of the
associated spring(s), in sequence, 4 000 times at a rate of 15 ± 2 times per minute.
14 Moisture resistance
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows:
Replacement of the sixth seventh paragraph:
The specimens are kept in the cabinet for 168 h (7 days).
Additional subclause:
14.101 Accessories shall have a degree of protection higher than IPX0 according to
IEC 60529.
Compliance is checked by the appropriate test of IEC 60529 and with the treatment specified
below, followed immediately by wiping the surplus surface water from the accessory and
carrying out the electric strength test of Clause 15.
Accessories shall withstand the electric strength test and inspection shall show that water has
not entered the samples to any appreciable extent and has not reached current-carrying parts.
Accessories designed for attachment by cord are tested as follows:
a) for non-rewirable accessories, with the cord supplied;
b) for 6 A rewirable accessories, with 0,75 mm cord;
2 2
c) for 10 A rewirable accessories, with 0,75 mm and 1 mm cord;
2 2
d) for 16 A rewirable accessories, with 1 mm and 1,5 mm cord.
Appliance inlets and appliance outlets are tested when mounted in or on a suitable watertight
enclosure, in accordance with the manufacturer´s instructions for mounting.
Fixing screws of enclosures and covers are tightened with a torque equal to two-thirds of the
appropriate torque given in Clause 25. The accessories are placed in the most unfavourable
position.
Connectors and appliance outlets are tested with and also without the complementary
accessory in engagement, the means for ensuring the required degree of protection against
moisture (as specified in 13.102) being positioned as in normal use.
15 Insulation resistance and electric strength
This clause of IEC 60320-1 is amended as follows applies.
15.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
15.2 Replacement:
The insulation resistance is measured with a d.c. voltage of approximately 500 V applied,
each measurement being made 60 s ± 5 s after the application of the voltage.
The insulation resistance is measured:
a) for appliance inlets with a connector in engagement, between the current-carrying pins
connected together and the body;
b) for appliance inlets with a connector in engagement, between each current-carrying pin in
turn and the other, the latter being connected to the body;
c) for connectors and plug connectors, between the current-carrying pins or contacts
connected together and the body;
d) for connectors and plug connectors, between each current-carrying pin or contact in turn
and the other, the latter being connected to the body;
e) for rewirable connectors and plug connectors, between any metal part of the cord
anchorage, excluding clamping screws, and a metal rod, of the maximum diameter of the
cord, inserted in its place.
NOTE – The maximum diameters of the cords are:
Type of cord Number of cores and nominal cross-sectional area Maximum diameter
mm² mm
60227 IEC 53 7,6
2 × 0,75
8,0
2 × 1,0
60245 IEC 53 2 × 0,75 8,2
8,8
2 × 1,0
The insulation resistance shall be not less than 5 MΩ.
The term "body" used in items a), b), c) and d) above includes all accessible metal parts,
fixing screws, external assembly screws or the like and metal foil in contact with the outer
surface of external parts of insulating material, including the engagement face of connectors
(items c) and d)).
The metal foil is wrapped round the outer surface of external parts of insulating material;
however, it is not pressed into openings.
15.3 Replacement:
A voltage of substantially sine-wave form with a frequency of 50 Hz to 60 Hz is applied for a
period of not less than 1 min between the parts as indicated in 15.2.
The value of the test voltage is:
a) 4 000 V ± 60 V between current-carrying parts and the body;
b) 2 000 V ± 60 V between all other parts.
Initially, not more than half the prescribed voltage is applied, then it is raised rapidly to the full
value.
No flashover or breakdown shall occur during the test.
NOTE 1 – The high-voltage transformer used for the test must be so designed that, when the output terminals are
short-circuited after the output voltage has been adjusted to the appropriate test voltage, the output current is at
least 200 mA. The overcurrent relay must not trip when the output current is less than 100 mA.
NOTE 2 – Care is taken that the r.m.s. value of the test voltage applied is measured within ±3 %.

– 18 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
NOTE 3 – Glow discharges without drop in voltage are neglected.
16 Forces necessary to insert and to withdraw the connector/appliance outlet
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amended as follows with the following addition:
16.1 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
16.2 This subclause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
Additional subclause:
16.101 Verification of the retaining device
A retaining catch device shall be provided to prevent inadvertent disconnection of the
accessories when engaged. The retaining catch shall operate correctly. It shall be possible to
insert or withdraw the connector and operate the retaining catch with two hands without
difficulty.
This test is not applicable to couplers without retaining device, classified in 7.101 b).
Compliance is checked by manual operation and by the following test. During this test the
connection between the accessories shall be maintained during the application of the principal
weight and shall disconnect when the supplementary weight is applied.
The maximum and minimum forces necessary to separate the coupler are determined by
means of an apparatus as shown in Figure 3 101. This apparatus comprises a mounting
plate (A) and an appliance coupler wired as in normal use (B), mounted so that the coupler
hangs vertically with the plug connector or appliance inlet downwards.

Dimensions in millimetres
Cable clamp
(A) Mounting plate
(B) Appliance coupler
(F) Cable
(E) Supplementary mass
(D) Principal mass
(C) Carrier
150 ±2,5
IEC
Figure 101 – Example of apparatus for inadvertent
disengagement (see 16.101)
For rewirable appliance couplers using cord anchorages with clamping screws, these screws
are tightened with a torque as given in 25.1.
The maximum and minimum separation forces provided by the retaining device are measured
by inserting the connector into the plug connector or appliance inlet to the full depth. A carrier
(C), with a principal weight mass (D) and a supplementary weight mass (E), is attached to the
cord (F). The forces exerted by these components are given in Table 101. The principal
weight mass is hung on without jolting the connector and the supplementary weight mass is
allowed to fall from a height of 50 mm ± 2,5 mm onto the principal weight mass.
550 ±2,5
– 20 – IEC 60320-2-3:2018 RLV © IEC 2018
Table 101 – Pull forces for retaining devices
Force
Component
N
Carrier (C) and principal weight mass (D) 60 ± 1
Supplementary weight mass (E) 30 ± 1

17 Operation of contacts
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies.
18 Resistance to heating of appliance couplers for hot conditions or very hot
conditions
This clause of IEC 60320-1 does not apply applies.
19 Breaking capacity
This clause of IEC 60320-1 applies amend
...