Eaton Arktite Heavy Duty Circuit Breaking Plugs and Receptacles User Guide
Comprehensive user guide for Eaton Arktite heavy-duty circuit-breaking plugs and receptacles. Includes detailed information on grounding styles (Style 1 vs. Style 2), wiring specifications, horsepower ratings, and installation options.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- Arktite plugs and receptacles are industrial-grade connectors for non-hazardous areas. They are designed for specific amperage, pole counts, and grounding styles (Style 1 or Style 2). Always ensure the plug and receptacle match in amperage, style, and number of poles. p. 1
Key actions
- Verify grounding style (Style 1 vs Style 2) before installation. p. 3
- Check wire size compatibility using the provided diameter of recess table. p. 5
Problems and fixes
Ensure amperage, style, and number of poles match. Check for S4 special polarity rotation.
p. 1, 4Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| NEMA Rating | 4 | Watertight | p. 1 |
| Amperage Range | 20A - 400A | Supported current ratings | p. 1, 5 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Applications and Features p. 1
- Grounding Styles p. 3
- Wire Sizes and Horsepower Ratings p. 5
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
The Eaton Arktite series consists of heavy-duty circuit-breaking plugs and receptacles designed for industrial, non-hazardous environments. These devices are used to supply power to portable equipment such as motor generator sets, compressors, and welders. Important: Receptacles only accept plugs of the same amperage rating, style, and number of poles. 150-400 ampere units are intended for service disconnect use only.

Grounding styles
Arktite devices utilize two distinct methods for completing the grounding circuit, which must be understood before installation:

- Style 1 (Metallic): The grounding conductor in the flexible cable is bonded to the plug sleeve by a pressure connector. The receptacle is grounded as an integral part of a grounded conduit system.
- Style 2 (Metallic and Non-metallic): The grounding conductor is bonded to an extra (grounding) pole. This ensures the grounding connection is made before line and load poles engage and is broken after they disengage.
Wiring and horsepower ratings
The manual provides detailed tables for wire sizes and horsepower ratings based on NEC Article 430. Users must consult these tables to ensure the correct wire size is used for the specific contact type (pressure, crimp/solder, or binding screw). Do not use wire sizes smaller than the minimum recommended size.
Installation options
Several factory-installed options are available to customize the devices for specific applications:

- S22 (Reverse Service): Receptacle is assembled with a plug interior (exposed contacts), and the plug is assembled with a receptacle interior (recessed contacts). This is used when the plug is energized to feed a normally de-energized receptacle.
- S4 (Special Polarity): The receptacle interior is rotated 22.5° to the right, and the plug is modified to match. This prevents the insertion of a plug into a receptacle with a different electrical rating when multiple units are installed in the same area.
- S752 (Corro-free): Epoxy powder finish for added corrosion resistance.
Maintenance and safety
The devices feature a split-pin contact design that provides nearly 360° of contact at every insertion, reducing heat rise and arcing. The Tri-Lock cable grip ensures even distribution of grip around the cable perimeter, preventing damage to internal conductors. Always ensure the plug and receptacle are compatible before connection.
Manufacturer information
Eaton
Practical help
Common problems
Verify that the plug and receptacle have the exact same amperage rating, style, and number of poles. Check for special polarity (S4) configurations.
Confirm whether your installation requires Style 1 or Style 2 grounding. Style 1 bonds to the shell; Style 2 uses an extra grounding pole.
Before use
- Verify the amperage rating matches between the plug and receptacle.
- Check the wire size against the provided diameter of recess table.
- Ensure the grounding style (1 or 2) is appropriate for the application.
- Inspect the cable grip and ensure it is properly tightened.
- Confirm the device is not being used for disconnect under load if it is a 150A-400A unit.
Images and diagrams
- Wiring diagrams for Style 1 and Style 2 grounding configurations.
- Dimensional drawings for AP plugs, AR receptacles, and APR connectors.
Model compatibility
- Receptacles only accept plugs of the same amperage rating, style, and number of poles.
- 150-400 ampere units are for service disconnect use only.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.