Clause 3 – How to understand the definition of “type X, type Y, type Z attachment”

The type of connection is defined by the manufacturer of the appliance. Generally speaking, it is rare to define it as Type X, because this will bring unnecessary risks to the manufacturer. It is commonly defined as Type Y. Of course, if the power cord is cast, it is generally defined as Type Z. The following figure lists the connection diagrams of the three types of attachment.

type X attachment: the connection of the supply cord is completed in a specially prepared space in the appliance. Therefore, when replacing the power cord, no other parts except the terminal block and the internal wire will be touched. The screws that fix the supply cord are ordinary cross or flat head screws. The replacement of the supply cord is carried out within a controllable range. The supply cord replaced by ordinary users is relatively simple and operable.

type Y attachment: when replacing the supply cord, it is generally necessary to open the structural housing of the appliance, and these housings are fixed by special screws, such as hexagonal screws. After opening the structural housing of the appliance, the replacement can touch the dangerous moving parts or other live parts inside the appliance. In this case, it is safer to define the connection as Type Y attachment and require professionals to replace the supply cord. Usually, the fixing screws are regular screws that can be operated by ordinary users, but if dangerous parts can be touched during the replacement of the supply cord, it is generally defined as Type Y attachment.

type Z attachment, see the explanation and examples in 3.2.6.