Reefer container sockets: 32A 380-440V 4-pole IP67, clock position 3h
Reefer power is its own specification: 32A, 380-440V, 4-pole (3P+earth), IP67, and clock position 3h — which does not mate with a standard 400V 4-pole 6h. Sockets, plugs, connectors, phase sequence testing and interlocks, with item numbers.
Start with the conclusion: reefers have their own specification — 32A, 380-440V, 4-pole (3P + earth), IP67, and the clock position is 3h.
Why the 3h position exists
IEC 60309-2 allocates clock positions by voltage and application, as mistake-proofing. Within the 380-440V band, reefers use 3h so they are distinct from the 6h used by ordinary industrial circuits: ports, yards and cold stores have both, and the clock position prevents cross-plugging. For the full picture on clock positions and poles see counting poles and interchangeability.
What a complete reefer supply needs (with our models)
| Part | Notes | Our models |
|---|---|---|
| Socket (fixed end) | Mounted on the yard pillar or wall; 32A 380-440V 4-pole IP67 | 9562 wall-mounted socket 2123A panel-mounted socket |
| Switched / interlocked | Cannot be unplugged live: switch off first, protecting both the operator and the compressor | 5946A wall-mounted socket (switch + DUO mechanical interlock) 5792A switch + DUO interlock + DIN rail |
| Plug (cable end) | Fitted to the reefer supply cable | 2175B AM-TOP plug 2600 PowerTOP plug |
| Connector | Portable (female) for cable extension | 2177A AM-TOP connector |
| Appliance inlet | Mounted on the enclosure, cable enters from outside | 2692 appliance inlet |
| Phase sequence tester | Essential: reversed phase sequence makes the compressor run backwards and can destroy it | 3718 phase sequence test plug (32A 380-440V 4-pole) |
| Protective cover | Dust and water protection, and prevents touching, when nothing is plugged in | 41342 (for 32A 4p plugs) 40841 |
| Combination unit | CEE socket + DUO interlock + SCHUKO + 3× MCB 32A, 520×225 mm enclosure | 940027 reefer combination unit |
Three things that matter on site
- Phase sequence: reefer compressors are sensitive to it and run backwards if reversed. Fit a phase sequence test plug or check with a phase meter before energising — this step saves the cost of a compressor.
- Plugging in live: at 32A an arc erodes the contacts. For yards and ports use switched + DUO mechanically interlocked sockets (5946A, 5792A): the plug cannot be removed until the switch is off.
- IP rating: open yards, wash-down and salt air require IP67 (IP44 is splash-proof only and is not suitable for wash-down or permanent outdoor use).
FAQ
Q: Can I power a reefer from an ordinary 32A 400V 4-pole socket?
A: Not advisable, and it usually will not fit — the clock positions differ (6h standard, 3h reefer), which is
the mistake-proofing built into the standard. For an existing circuit, specify reefer-specific parts.
Q: Is 32A 4-pole enough to go on?
A: You also need to check the clock position, IP rating and whether it is switched/interlocked.
"32A 4-pole" covers both 3h and 6h, which are different products.
Q: Must the plug and socket be bought as a pair?
A: Yes. The reefer usually already has its original cable and plug, so we match the socket to your existing
plug (or a photo of it) to avoid getting the clock position wrong.
Related: counting poles · can MENNEKES mate with domestic CEE? · IP44 vs IP67
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