Heavy Duty Extension Cords for Industrial Use

Heavy Duty Extension Cords for Industrial Use
Extension cords provide electrical power for different devices and equipment, hence the need for a good cord to meet all your needs. There are many extension cords on the market. However, heavy-duty ones are the most sought-after. They are popular due to their safety features and their capability to power heavy-duty machines.

When you plan to buy an extension cord for outdoor and heavy-duty needs, there are different guidelines you need to consider to get the best ones. You also need to understand the dos and don'ts while operating these cords. 


 

How to Choose the Best Industrial Extension Cord?

The plugs and power capacity
Remember to check the AWG chart to select the best extension cord. The chart gives a wide range of extension cords and classifies them based on the voltage and wattage. If you need an industrial extension cord, consider those of 10 or 12-gauge cables. They can withstand outdoor and heavy-duty usage.

You may also need to select NEMA 6-50 cords with a right-angled plug. These plugs have different safety features, such as a maximum amperage of 50-amps, which is ideal for heavy-duty machines. They also have safety features to prevent short-circuiting. 

Extension cords are available in lengths ranging from 3 feet to 200 feet. If you need an extension cord for industrial use, consider the size to enable you to cover long distances, especially if you are using it for outdoor needs.

You must consider different factors to get the best heavy-duty extension cords.

Weatherproof
A good extension for industrial use should be able to withstand different environmental factors. For instance, it should have a protective covering and layers to protect it from water and moisture that can cause short-circuiting or extreme heat that can cause fire outbreaks. It should also withstand the effects of abrasion and friction when used on rough terrain.

Therefore, you need to select those with thick external layers to protect the internal elements. The plugs should be sealed tight and weatherproof. 



Ratings and labels
You need to consider different ratings when buying the best industrial extension. The first is outdoor ratings. Check for the labels “Outdoor Use” or “W.” You can also check for other labels such as “O,” which means that it is oil resistant, and you can use it in oily conditions, especially on factory floors. 


Another label to check is the “SJTW,” which is suitable for general use and the internal and external environment. The “J” signifies a standard 300-voltage good enough for industrial or commercial use. The “T” means it is made of vinyl thermoplastic material, making it heat resistant. 

Why Do You Need a Heavy-Duty Extension Cord?
Heavy-duty extension cords can be ideal for supporting different machines simultaneously. You can use them for interior electronics when connecting power-intensive devices such as refrigerators, cookers, heaters, and ovens all at once. They can also be ideal for heavy-duty appliances such as dryers and washing machines.

The cords are also ideal for outdoor use. Outdoor cords are subject to adverse weather conditions such as rainfall, heating, or UV rays. Therefore, you need an extension cord that can withstand such conditions. They can also be ideal for providing electricity for outdoor activities such as cooking, parties, repairs, and other activities such as lawn mowing.
 
You can also use them in commercial locations to support multiple needs. They can be ideal for supplying electricity to outdoor areas, such as cafés with outdoor sitting positions. You can use them for different machines in warehouses.

Different Types of Heavy-Duty Extension Cords 
Different types of heavy-duty extension cords are suitable for various appliances. The most common ones are the three-pronged and two-pronged extension cords. The three-prong attachment is ideal for heavy-duty appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines, and dryers. The two-pronged has two plugs at the end and is suitable for power tools, especially those used for outdoor activities such as mowing. 

Besides the prong cords, you can also get round pin extensions and flat pin plugs. The round pin is ideal for continuous use, while the flat pin may be ideal for intermittent use. If you want the best industrial cords, consider the pronged ones, either the two-pronged or the three-pronged, based on your needs and the machines you want to power. 

Keeping and Caring for the Heavy-Duty Extension Cords
The heavy extension cords also require a certain degree of care, especially when storing them. First, you must ensure you store them in a friendly environment free from adverse conditions such as UV rays, moisture, and water. You also need to keep them away from sharp objects that can cut them and make them vulnerable to weather conditions.



Do not leave them exposed to harsh weather for an extended period of time. You need to wrap them and curl them to prevent the cables from cutting off. Once you curl them, you can hang them on a hook on the wall, free from any adverse conditions. If possible, put them inside a bag before hanging them on the wall. 


Despite being ideal for heavy-duty needs, you must ensure you do not overload the extension by operating multiple heavy-duty machines simultaneously. You could risk short-circuiting them. 
 
Final Thoughts
Heavy-duty extension cords can help you operate multiple devices simultaneously or use them for outdoor purposes. When selecting an ideal outdoor extension cord, you must observe the labels, rating, voltage, lengths, and weatherproof guidelines to ensure they last longer. Finally, you need to exercise caution while using them.
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