What Is an Outlet Box?
An outlet box is a junction on the wall of a building or other location that transports the AC current sent from the power plant to various electronic devices.
A voltage of 100 or 200 volts is applied, and each outlet has a specific current rating.
The electrical power is supplied to the outlet by plugging in a plug connected to the electronic device.
There are two types of outlets: recessed outlets, which are pre-installed in the wall, and exposed outlets, which are retrofitted. In Japan, 2-pole outlets with two plugs are the most common type.
Uses of Outlet Boxes
Outlet boxes are widely used as connectors for supplying electric power.
A 100-volt voltage is applied to an ordinary household outlet, which is used as a power source for various electrical appliances. The maximum current is 15 amps, so the maximum power can be used as the product of these up to 1500 watts.
Some appliances, such as air conditioners and induction cooktops, have 200 volts and require a dedicated outlet.
Many 200-volt outlets are used in factories that handle commercial equipment.
Principle of Outlet Boxes
Electricity produced by Japanese power companies is delivered to homes and factories as alternating current (AC).
Outlet boxes are connection device installed in a wall or other location to transport the AC power to the electrical equipment.
On the other hand, the component that plugs into the outlet is called a plug.
Depending on how the outlet is installed, there are two types: recessed and exposed.
The recessed type is a method in which the location and number of required outlets are planned in advance, and the electrical wiring and outlets are placed inside the building. The outlets are embedded inside the building, and the structure is not likely to affect the exterior appearance.
On the other hand, the exposed type is a method in which a new outlet is installed on the wall when it becomes necessary to install a new outlet.
The number of electrodes (number of poles) that apply voltage to the outlet is specified and can be 2-pole, 3-pole, or 4-pole. The shape differs from country to country, but in Japan, 2-pole outlets are most common.
There are also four types of rated capacities that can be used: 15 amps, 20 amps, 30 amps, and 50 amps. There are two types of voltages: 100 volts and 200 volts.