120v rated plug adapter ok for 240v?

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mb82

132 posts

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# 180540 13-Sep-2015 07:52

I have a japan to international travel adapter plug. I think the shape of the pins mean it can accept a few different types it fits japan appliances anyway which is what i need. The japan supply pins on the plug are bent for nz. The plug has 120v 10A written on it. Would it be ok for 240v? I assume it has been used for 240v before as it was not me that bent the pins. It is pretty simplistic in design. And yes the appliance has a wide voltage input.

RunningMan

5613 posts

Uber Geek

# 1386471 13-Sep-2015 07:58

So double the rated voltage then... I wouldn't. The appliance may well function, but if the insulation is not up to the job and you get a shock from it, all for the sake of a few dollars for a new correctly rated one.

http://www.pbtech.co.nz/index.php?z=p&p=ADPJAC0878&name=JACKSON-universal-Travel-Power-Adaptor-w-Surge-Pro

gzt

10980 posts

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# 1386473 13-Sep-2015 08:08

Bent pins cause problems. The plug does not exactly fix the socket. This creates a hazard.

The act of bending the pins can cause unseen damage within the plug itself.

The physical bend can cause damage outlet sockets by exerting force in a direction they are not designed for.

mb82

132 posts

Master Geek

# 1386479 13-Sep-2015 08:20

True, I should probably just buy one. On a side note, how do the reset-able fuses in cheap 4-way adapters work?

sbiddle

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# 1386492 13-Sep-2015 09:17

Bending pins is not acceptable. The pins are also highly unlikely to be insulated (which is required under NZ/AU regs) so this makes it unacceptable and dangerous.

Adapter plugs should never be used long term for anything as it's dangerous.

mb82

132 posts

Master Geek

# 1386529 13-Sep-2015 10:36

How are they dangerous long term?

Rikkitic

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# 1386535 13-Sep-2015 10:45

I have a couple of devices that came with those power supplies/ac adapters that have the plug built into a sealed unit. This makes it impossible to change the plug. The only choice is to use a plug adapter or to bend the pins. I have bent the pins. This did not crack the housing or damage anything else. Would it still be regarded as dangerous and if so, what then is the solution?

I don't think there is ever a bad time to talk about how absurd war is, how old men make decisions and young people die. - George Clooney

shk292

1763 posts

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# 1386599 13-Sep-2015 11:39

Nicer than a travel adapter is a multi socket board from the appropriate country, with a NZ plug fitted. That's what I use for UK appliances, still a few of those left after ten years living in NZ

sbiddle

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# 1386604 13-Sep-2015 11:59

mb82: How are they dangerous long term?

It doesn't comply with AS/NZ electrical regulations

sbiddle

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# 1386605 13-Sep-2015 12:00

Rikkitic: I have a couple of devices that came with those power supplies/ac adapters that have the plug built into a sealed unit. This makes it impossible to change the plug. The only choice is to use a plug adapter or to bend the pins. I have bent the pins. This did not crack the housing or damage anything else. Would it still be regarded as dangerous and if so, what then is the solution?

If it's an AC or DC plugpack then simply buying a new plugpack is the best option.