Powerlock
Encyclopedia
Powerlock, also referred to as: power-loc and power-lok, is a single pole electrical connector used by the entertainment industry for high current applications, similar to but considered safer than camlock connectors. Originally developed by Litton Veam in the mid-1990s, the Powerlock connector introduced safety features that protected the user against potential fatal electric shock as a result of connection errors. Such features included finger proof electrical contacts, colour coded insulators, mechanical keys and locking devices.
The original Powerlock is available in 400A and 600A versions. All versions can be used for single phase and, much more commonly, three phase applications. Three phase connections require five separate cables. Compatible, non VEAM versions are available in commerce, such as Vansystem Powerline.
The Powerlock style connector can also be used with Sequential Mating Units. These units allow for safe and controlled connection of the single core power cables. These units control the sequence of connection to ensure Earth and Neutral connections are made before phase connections can be made.Thereby ensuring high levels of safety through eliminating connection errors and ensuring safety circuits are always connected.
. Powerlock inputs are available on many large dimmer
s and on large power distribution units
.
The original Powerlock is available in 400A and 600A versions. All versions can be used for single phase and, much more commonly, three phase applications. Three phase connections require five separate cables. Compatible, non VEAM versions are available in commerce, such as Vansystem Powerline.
The Powerlock style connector can also be used with Sequential Mating Units. These units allow for safe and controlled connection of the single core power cables. These units control the sequence of connection to ensure Earth and Neutral connections are made before phase connections can be made.Thereby ensuring high levels of safety through eliminating connection errors and ensuring safety circuits are always connected.
Applications
Single pole power connectors are employed for high current generators, lighting, three phase motors, and power distribution. Common application fields are entertainment, sport events, airports, mining industry, railways industry, military and emergency missions. Powerlock connectors are typically used as connections to generatorsElectrical generator
In electricity generation, an electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. A generator forces electric charge to flow through an external electrical circuit. It is analogous to a water pump, which causes water to flow...
. Powerlock inputs are available on many large dimmer
Dimmer
Dimmers are devices used to vary the brightness of a light. By decreasing or increasing the RMS voltage and, hence, the mean power to the lamp, it is possible to vary the intensity of the light output...
s and on large power distribution units
Power distribution unit
A power distribution unit is a device fitted with multiple outputs designed to distribute electric power, especially to racks of computers and networking equipment located within a data center....
.