umc extension

[rusty61]

Problem: I'm travelling with my Gen 2 UMC and it's not quite long enough to reach from the accommodation power point to the car.

Solution 1: buy a suitable (and expensive) 240v extension cord.

Proposed solution 2: buy a Type 2 to Type cable that one would use with public chargers. Then, use that to extend the reach of the UMC.

Does solution 2 work?

 

[Icey]

No, It does not work.
On a Type 2 - Type 2 Cable the male end is 1.67cm longer than the female end, ensuring that it cant be used as a extension cable as there is no protection from accidently unplugging it.
Go get yourself a good extension cord.

 

[rusty61]

Thanks buddy!

 

[Vostok]

Solution 1: buy a suitable (and expensive) 240v extension cord.
Proposed solution 2: buy a Type 2 to Type cable that one would use with public chargers. Then, use that to extend the reach of the UMC.

The other thing is a suitable extra heavy duty extension cord for the UMC (like this one: https://www.bunnings.com.au/hpm-10m...-heavy-duty-tradesman-extension-lead_p4420227) costs less than $50 - so not expensive.

A Type 2 - Type 2 lead, which would not even work in this situation, costs $250 - $350.

 

[dronus]

Maybe while you are grabbing an extension lead consider getting one of these (or similar) too.
It will keep the water out of the socket and also you can lock it so its less likely to be unplugged or stolen.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ampfibian-x2-weatherproof-connector-protector_p0135957

 

[cafz]

It's worth getting a lead with 1.5mm² conductors, rather than the more usual 1.0mm². For example: EXTENSION LEAD 15A LEAD 10A PLUG

 

[dronus]

It's worth getting a lead with 1.5mm² conductors, rather than the more usual 1.0mm². For example: EXTENSION LEAD 15A LEAD 10A PLUG

Absolutely agree. Total Tools etc have them too if the OP is traveling. Buy it right the first time, a poor man pays twice

 

[djoh]

Maybe while you are grabbing an extension lead consider getting one of these (or similar) too.
It will keep the water out of the socket and also you can lock it so its less likely to be unplugged or stolen.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ampfibian-x2-weatherproof-connector-protector_p0135957

Note that my UMC has a right angled 240v plug on the end, so doesn't really fit in most of these weatherproof connector covers when connected to an extension cord, so choose one that will fit.

Definitely get a heavy duty extension cord.

david

 

[dronus]

Note that my UMC has a right angled 240v plug on the end, so doesn't really fit in most of these weatherproof connector covers when connected to an extension cord, so choose one that will fit.

Definitely get a heavy duty extension cord.

david

Very good point!

There are some available that accomodate right angle plugs but i wouldnt vouch for how waterproof they would be.. might be better off Mcgyvering one out of a sistema lunchbox

1L Rectangle

Organise your kitchen with the Sistema® KLIP IT PLUS™ Rectangular range. Modular stacking shapes ensure the most efficient use of space in the pantry, fridge and freezer. Corner shoulders on base create compact nesting when not in use. Designed with a built-in leak proof seal plus Sistema®...

www.sistemaplastics.com

Not so waterproof:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Waterproof-Weather-Resistant-Protective-Extension-Decorations/dp/B0B5DQTQFV?th=1

 

[cafz]

Definitely get a heavy duty extension cord.

Forget "heavy duty", that doesn't necessarily imply anything about the current carrying conductors - it's more often just talking about the physical protective layer. You want 1.5mm² conductors.

 

[dronus]

Very good point!

There are some available that accomodate right angle plugs but i wouldnt vouch for how waterproof they would be.. might be better off Mcgyvering one out of a sistema lunchbox

1L Rectangle

Organise your kitchen with the Sistema® KLIP IT PLUS™ Rectangular range. Modular stacking shapes ensure the most efficient use of space in the pantry, fridge and freezer. Corner shoulders on base create compact nesting when not in use. Designed with a built-in leak proof seal plus Sistema®...

www.sistemaplastics.com

Not so waterproof:

https://www.amazon.com.au/Waterproof-Weather-Resistant-Protective-Extension-Decorations/dp/B0B5DQTQFV?th=1

Replying to myself - Or, good quality gaffa tape or self amalgamating tape

 

[Vostok]

It's worth getting a lead with 1.5mm² conductors, rather than the more usual 1.0mm². For example: EXTENSION LEAD 15A LEAD 10A PLUG

The Bunnings one I cited has 1.5mm conductors. But length is also relevant. 1.5mm / 10A continuous is fine for 10m length, borderline for 20m length, and not fit for purpose at 40m.

 

[katz]

I've got this already, surely its ok? Rated at 10A.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/click-25m-250v-10a-heavy-duty-extension-lead_p0189131

 

[cafz]

The Bunnings one I cited has 1.5mm conductors. But length is also relevant. 1.5mm / 10A continuous is fine for 10m length, borderline for 20m length, and not fit for purpose at 40m.

Agreed, I would keep it to 10m as well.

 

[dronus]

I've got this already, surely its ok? Rated at 10A.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/click-25m-250v-10a-heavy-duty-extension-lead_p0189131

That one appears to have heavy duty insulation but only 1mm conductors and is 25m long.
It would be interesting to see what current you actually get and if the cable or plugs get hot.. just be careful and make sure you fully unwind it.

 

[Vostok]

I've got this already, surely its ok? Rated at 10A.

Unfortunately no. At 10A continuous and 1mm conductors, maximum length for 3% voltage drop is 18m not 25m. You’re getting 4.7% voltage drop with this which is too much. The cable and plugs will get hot with continuous use and potentially melt, and I would not recommend. Even 1.5mm conductors are not thick enough for 25m, would need to go to 2.5mm.

Check with this:

Cable Size Calculator AS/NZS 3008

Cable size calculator for current rating, voltage drop, loop impedance, earth cable and short circuit, based on Australia and New Zealand standard AS/NZS 3008.

www.jcalc.net

 

[OzVic]

Does solution 2 work?

Not unless you do this:

Type 2 to type 2 cable as extension cable.

I have a Type 2 (Mennekes) to type 2 charging cable for use with untethered charging stations. It occurred to me that this cable should also work as an extension cable to allow my wall connector to reach my car when parked just out of reach. Unfortunately the wall connector cable and the type 2...

teslamotorsclub.com