IEC 60884-2-5:2017

Overview

IEC 60884-2-5:2017 - "Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes - Part 2-5: Particular requirements for adaptors" is the IEC technical specification that sets safety, construction and testing requirements for portable adaptors used with AC supply. It applies to adaptors with or without earthing, rated for voltages >50 V up to 440 V and currents up to 32 A for household and similar purposes (indoor/outdoor). Travel adaptors are included under Annex AA with a limited scope (≤250 V and ≤20 A). Multi-plug travel adaptors that allow simultaneous connection of two or more plugs are excluded.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and ratings: Defined rated voltage/current limits and ambient temperature conditions (suitable for environments not normally exceeding +40 °C; 24 h average ≤ +35 °C; lower limit −5 °C).
• Construction and shape: New requirements for adaptor geometry to improve safety and compatibility with sockets and plugs.
• Protection against electric shock: Requirements for insulation, shutters (national variations noted), earthing provisions and marking to avoid incorrect insertion or hazardous contact.
• Travel adaptors: Specific rules in Annex AA including voltage/current limits and exclusions (no multi-plug travel adaptors).
• Adaptors with additional functions: Requirements for adaptors that include extra electronics (timers, dimmers, power supplies) or cable outlets - the additional function itself is not covered by this standard.
• Fused and overcurrent-protected adaptors: Rules for adaptors incorporating replaceable fuses or overcurrent protective devices (references include IEC 60127 and IEC 60269 series).
• Testing and performance: Provisions for temperature-rise, insulation resistance, mechanical strength, resistance to heat/humidity/ageing, terminal/connection integrity and withdrawal force.
• Warnings and labeling: Mandatory warnings such as against inserting an adaptor into another adaptor, plus marking and polarity requirements.
• Alignment and definitions: Edition 2 aligns content and terminology with IEC 60884-1 and includes revised/added definitions.

Practical applications and users

Who uses IEC 60884-2-5:2017:

• Manufacturers and product designers of portable adaptors, travel adaptors and fused adaptors
• Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies performing safety and type testing
• Certification bodies and market surveillance authorities verifying compliance
• Procurement teams and facility managers selecting safe adaptors for household, commercial and outdoor use

Typical uses:

• Designing compliant adaptors (earthing, dimensions, fuse incorporation)
• Preparing technical files and test reports for certification
• Ensuring safe travel adaptor products meet national and international safety expectations

Related standards

• IEC 60884-1 (General requirements for plugs and socket-outlets) - Part 2-5 supplements/modifies Part 1
• IEC 60127 series (miniature fuses)
• IEC 60269-3 (low-voltage fuses for household use)
• Note: The standard excludes adaptors that incorporate IEC 60320 connectors.

Keywords: IEC 60884-2-5:2017, adaptors, travel adaptors, fused adaptors, plugs and socket-outlets, electrical safety, earthing, overcurrent protection, IEC 60884-1.