Electronic – Industry standard for outdoor appliance AC input bulkhead connector

acconnectoroutdoors

I am looking to spec an AC input receptacle that is appropriate for outdoor use. The equipment for which it is required is essentially a relocatable enclosure that is designed to operate unattended for long periods of time.

On first thought IEC 60320 C13/14 style AC input modules seem appealing as adapter cables are readily available for input up to 250V. Our equipment can accept a range of voltages so this would allow simple in field customization. In our application the bulkhead fitting should be at least IP65/66 in terms of ingress protection to the equipment. However there seems to be a complete lack of outdoor appropriate power input modules for this requirement. Example search. This leads me to believe there may be another standard that is more widely adopted.

There are obviously many connector systems that will solve this problem (Amphenol/LEMO/Bulgin) though none appear to adhere to a single standard. Captivating a power cord, while easier, does not allow for flexible configuration in terms of input voltages.

My question is what is the general industry standard for outdoor appliances/equipment that will support multiple input voltages? Does one exist?

Best Answer

Why not IP67 rated IEC 60309?

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IP44 250 VAC outlet and line-plug (see later for IP67 examples)
image©sjs77

IEC 60309 (formerly IEC 309) is an international standard from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for "plugs, socket-outlets and couplers for industrial purposes".

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The colour of an IEC 60309 plug or socket indicates its voltage and frequency rating. The most widespread colours are yellow 125 V, blue 250 V and red 400 V. The black 500 V version can often be found on ships.

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IP67 400VAC inlet and line-socket

enter image description here enter image description here IP67 120VAC inlet and line-socket.

(images from InternationalConfig)

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