Texas_Ranger wrote:
>I can only tell EVERYTHING that has
>to do with these old stuf has been
> entirely banned.
Both plugs and sockets are still in use here in Sweden. We still install the unearthed sockets as replacements. And, yes, they are safe.
What people doesn't realise is that using an earthed Schuko plug in a unearthed socket is reasonably safe, but using a round non-earthed plug in a earthed socket is not.
(The flat and shaped plugs are safe anywhere.)
The Schuko system was designed not to allow the use of unearthed plugs. Why?
There are three types of appliances:
- Class 0. No earth, single insulation
- Class 1. Earth, single insulation
- Class 2. No earth, double insulation.
Class 0 was standard in most old appliances, but is no longer legal. It's only safe if it is used in a dry room with NO METAL CONNECTED TO EARTH. In case of a fault you will get an unpleasant shock, but not a lethal one. If there is water present or you touch an metal object connected to earth, chances are that you will be killed since the resistance to earth is much lower.
Hence, a class I appliance will work like a class 0 type in an unearthed socket. But a class 0 appliance in an earthed environment is a real danger.
Now, this idea (or system) was abandoned some ten, twenty or thirty years ago (depending on country) since it is very difficult maintaining a room free from objects connected to earth. Radiators, water pipes, earthed extension cords from other rooms all introduce a potential danger (if you excuse the pun).
Hence, all new sockets are now required to be earthed. (With the exception of replacements)
Earth all or nothing. Improper earthing is like driving in the middle of the road when you go to England just because you are not comfortable with driving on the left. You have to choose side or you will get hurt.
//C-H
