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    service0063's Avatar
    service0063 Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Apr 14, 2016, 08:01 AM
    50A plug vs. 40A breaker/service
    We manufacture laboratory equipment. This unit is rated for maximum 40A.

    We ask the customer to install a 40A breaker in the circuit. The plug installed is a L6-50. Why is the plug not rated for 40A like the breaker?
    ebaines's Avatar
    ebaines Posts: 12,131, Reputation: 1307
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    #2

    Apr 14, 2016, 11:57 AM
    This sounds like a homework question to me. Think about it - if a fault occurs would you rather have the circuit breaker tripping or the plug over-heat?
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #3

    Apr 14, 2016, 02:22 PM
    Because a NEMA L6-50 is rated for 50 Amps. It works fine with a 40 Amp breaker. That is what determines the maximum current, not the plug. There is no NEMA L6-40, only 30 and 50 and using a 30 would be a code violation.

    PowerStream's Reference Chart of NEMA AC Plugs and Receptacles including drawings and photos
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