Why SmartPlug is better
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The problem |
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For the last 70 years the twist lock 30 amp plug has been the standard for marine shore power connections despite its obvious unsuitability for that environment. The basic flaw is that the points of electrical contact (the blades) are both exposed to the elements and responsible for bearing the physical stress placed on the plug due to movement or tension in the cord. With only one L-shaped electrical blade holding plug to receptacle, there is no guarantee of a secure connection or protection from corrosion due to exposure to the elements. This physical stress and inevitable corrosion cause the blades to work loose resulting in electrical arcing, overheating and if gone unnoticed, fire. Additionally, the old twist lock design can be extremely difficult to use in low light or hard-to-reach scenarios. |
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The solution |
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At the core of the patented SmartPlug concept is its signature intuitive shape and straight-in sleeve design, rendering the problems with blind connections and arcing/overheating (due to tension and corrosion) a thing of the past. The triple weatherproof seals keep the internal electronics free from moisture, and the multi-point locking system provided by the stainless steel side levers and locking cap make the plug virtually impervious to the most extreme of environments. All these features of SmartPlugs combine to eliminate all of the major causes of overheating and burning found in the current twist lock standard today. |
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Twist Lock |
SmartPlugs |
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Introduced |
Circa 1938 |
Circa 2008 |
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Ease of use |
“L” shaped pin must first be found, then aligned correctly, and twist to engage. If equipped with a collar, must then thread it on manually. |
Straight pins means the plug pushes straight in. The side lever locks "click" into place automatically. |
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Electrical contacts |
Minimum electrical contact area meaning higher chance of arcing |
Over 20x the contact area means no chance of arcing |
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Waterproofing |
Barely water resistant |
Fully weatherproof |
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Durability |
Electrical pins bear the load of movement and tension in cord |
Sleeve design means the plug body takes the load, not the pins |
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Secure connection |
Screw-down plastic retaining ring prone to stripping & cracking |
Self locking side levers and snap-down locking cap creates a rock solid connection |
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Waterproofing |
Dust shield (only) around power cord |
180° flexible weatherproof seal on cord |
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Overheat protection |
No thermal protection - prone to overheating and fire |
200-degree trip thermostat shuts off power if overheating occurs, and then turns power back on at a safe 120 degrees |
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