TYPE I / EXPLAINED
How to recognize Type I
Type I is recognized by its two angled flat blades. A three-pin version adds a straight earth pin. Two-pin versions also exist for equipment that does not require protective earth. Socket orientation can vary, so identify the contact geometry rather than whether the pattern points upward or downward.
- Common regions
- Australia, New Zealand, China and Argentina
- Contact arrangement
- Two angled flat blades; earthed versions add a straight earth pin
- Common current variants
- Commonly 10 A; higher-current versions differ
- Typical supply voltage
- Usually 220–240 V
- Standard family
- AS/NZS 3112; GB and IRAM national systems
- Socket accepts
- Matching national Type I configuration and current variant
Earthing, compatibility & common mix-ups
Australia and New Zealand, China and Argentina have related shapes but different national requirements. Pin dimensions, polarity conventions and current variants need separate confirmation. Higher-current Australian versions use different earth-pin sizes; sharing a type letter does not make every plug interchangeable.
What the type letter tells you
The letter describes a recognizable connection family. It does not specify the complete wall plate, mounting box, shutters, terminal design or approval for a destination market. A plug's rated voltage is also different from the actual supply voltage at a location. An adapter changes the physical connection; it does not convert voltage or frequency.
Choosing a Type I socket for your market
Start with the destination country and the appliance connection you need to support. Then identify the exact national version within AS/NZS 3112; GB and IRAM national systems, its marked current and voltage, and its earthing arrangement. The figures above describe common configurations; the supplied product's marking and technical documents define the actual model.
- Compare the complete contact pattern with the reference image, including the earth contact.
- Confirm the local supply voltage and frequency against the appliance input label.
- For a buying enquiry, include mounting format, current variant, quantity and required market documents.
Does physical fit mean the connection is suitable?
No. The earth connection, contact pressure, current rating, supply voltage and approved configuration all matter. Do not force a plug into a socket or remove an earth contact.
Reference image and initial type data: supplied global plug-and-socket workbook. Country context checked against Bel's World Plug and Input Voltage Guide. For South African configurations, see Interpower's SANS 164-2 guide. These recognition notes do not replace the applicable national standard or product documentation.