Differences Between NEMA 6-50 and NEMA TT-30

In the world of electrical connections, there are quite a few plugs and outlets that

look very similar to each other.  In the past, we have discussed differences in locking plugs and outlets most often associated with generators, and the differences with the outlet and plugs you can find in your home. There is another set that looks a little similar but serves very different purposes. This set is the NEMA 6-50 and NEMA TT-30.

The confusion usually starts because of the number of prongs each has and the way they are set up. As you can see, they both have 3-prongs. Two of them are flat, while the third is round. Do not assume it will fit based only on looks. In the electrical connection field, there are many different connections. The best way to identify your connections is with the NEMA code imprinted on the plug or outlet. So then what else makes them so different?

Let’s start with the NEMA 6-50. This connection is typically used for welders or construction workers that require high power for their jobs, but it is also gaining popularity in the electric vehicle community. The two flat pins are hots, while the round pin is the ground. This means this connection will also be running at 250 volts.

Now, let’s look at the NEMA TT-30. This connection is typically used for RVs that require 30 amps, as the connection itself is named “travel trailer.” You will see this connection at campgrounds and on portable generators. One of the flat pins is hot, while the other is neutral, meaning this connection will be running at 125 volts. You will also notice the flat pins are angled slightly. This is one easy way to tell it is a NEMA TT-30. The ground is round for this connection. In fact, the ground pin is usually round for most connections.

Now, can you adapt from one of these outlets to the other? Not really. The fact that the 6-50 is 250 volts while the TT-30 is 125 volts is the biggest reason. Trying to adapt connections with different voltages never really works.

If you have any questions about other similar looking power connections, feel free to reach out to us with a text, phone call, or email.

Share this post

• 6 comments
• Tags: 2019, 6-50, AC Works, AC Works brand, Customer Service, Differences between plugs, Electrical Safety, Generator, Generator Power, generator power solutions, Ground, Ground Pin, How to tell the difference between NEMA 6-50 and NEMA TT-30, NEMA 6-50, NEMA 6-50P, NEMA TT-30, NEMA TT-30P, Plug, Plug differences, Plug Similarities, Power, Power Solutions, Products, Receptacle, Technical, TT-30

← Older Post Newer Post →