14 replies to this topic

[Wallowa]

Does it really matter if when plugging in the extension cord to AC outlet if it arcs?

[PaulT]

Does it really matter if when plugging in the extension cord to AC outlet if it arcs?

When I first plugged my camper into shore power, a spark occurred. Since then, I have plugged the adapter and extension cord into the camper before plugging the extension cord  into the house outlet.  Most space heaters and appliances with a motor spark when being plugged into an outlet so my guess is that AC outlet design takes that into account. 
 

Anyway that my thought.

 

Paul

[Wallowa]

When I first plugged my camper into shore power, a spark occurred. Since then, I have plugged the adapter and extension cord into the camper before plugging the extension cord  into the house outlet.  Most space heaters and appliances with a motor spark when being plugged into an outlet so my guess is that AC outlet design takes that into account. 
 

Anyway that my thought.

 

Paul

 

 

Paul...I guess my question was:  "So what if it sparks"....is this arcing a problem?

[camelracer]

Shouldn't be a problem unless there are flammable vapors present.

[PaulT]

+1 for flammable vapors/

 

I was thinking about metal erosion & deposition due to arcing. Any time there is arcing between two metals, material is moved around. It is less of an issue where there are large and thick conductors than where there are thin plated surfaces/  I designed and built machines for electro spark alloying of metals for producing wear resistant surfaces, self lubricating surfaces, and/or repair of aerospace alloys such as turbine blades.  There are also machines for electrospark machining.

 

Paul