What is the Difference between Molded and Mechanical Power Cords?

Often when you go to purchase a power cord for your electronic device; be it online or offline, you have to choose one out of both mechanical and molded power cords. A molded cord (also known as over-molded cord) is designed by using an injection molding process which uses a combination of two or more materials along with plastic to build a single part. The materials become more flexible and robust when they undergo this type of molding process. Also, they enhance the reliability of the product.

A mechanical cord (also known as an assembled one), on the other hand is made out of elements that should be hard wired before putting them to use. This connector is then manually connected to the cord. While making assembled cords, labour intensive procedures are applied. Tools are also used to open the casing as well as other electrical assemblies like wiring.

Utility and purpose of both power cords

1. Molded Power Cords

Molded power cords are quite flexible. Hence it becomes extremely easy for the customers to personalize or make changes with it. A combination of different colours and customized wires can be used to come up with a personalized power cord. As the molded design is flexible, it works great for plug-and-play accessibility and doesn’t get damaged with frequent usage.

The best part about molded connectors is that they are designed to protect electrical components from environmental turbulences. For eg, A connector having a rating of IP68 can work smoothly even after it is submerged in 6 feet of water for 24 hours. The other part of molded connector remains concealed. So these power cords will work fine even in the worst environmental conditions.

2. Assembled Power Cords

Assembled Cords can come of use in various situations. Also, their utility remains exclusive for certain purposes. You can use Assembled Power Cords when:

a. You need a cord of a particular size for installation

b. You have to pass the cord through a barrier when the end won’t fit so the connector can be attached to the assembly

c. You need to protect the cable from weather changes and there is a frequent need to disconnect and reattach.

Molded Cords remain to be the most popularly used power cords due to the flexibility and customization they offer. They are available at cost effective rates and are used in medical appliances, portable electronics as well as technical applications. In controlled weather conditions and with size limitations, assembled cords might prove to be the right choice. Now that you know the difference between the two, you can choose your power cord according to your needs. Make sure you conduct enough amount of research before purchasing one of these power cords.

Do you have any confusion regarding the usage of Molded and Mechanical Power Cords? Have you had any experience that you are willing to share? Feel free to write to us or get in touch with one of the experts now!

Jennifer Truong is the owner of SF Cable, a california based online retailer of all kind of Computers, electronics, electrical accessories, networking accessories, cables, wires. Jennifer has extensive experience in the Electronics industry and blog.