Introduced in: Brazil (2001) and South Africa (2013) to unify the plug and socket system.
Features:
- Unique design:Triangular shape with two round prongs and a grounding pin.
- Safety features:Insulated sleeves on prongs to prevent accidental contact when partially inserted.
- Variants:
- Brazil: 10 amp and 20 amp versions with different pin diameters (4mm & 4.8mm).
- South Africa: 16 amp version with 4.5mm diameter pins.
- Compatibility:
- Fully compatible:All three versions with each other’s sockets.
- Compatible with type C plugs:Due to the hexagonal socket profile.
- Incompatible with type J:Though similar in appearance, the earth pin position differs.
Technical specifications:
- Pin length: 19 mm for all versions.
- Center-to-center spacing between line and neutral pins: 19 mm.
- Grounding pin offset: 3 mm from the imaginary line connecting the power pins.
Background:
- Based on the international standard IEC 60906-1, intended to be a single standard for Europe.
- Considered modern, compact, robust, and safe due to modern manufacturing techniques.
Future:
- Expected to gradually replace the older type M plug system in South Africa.
