The Siemens 5UB1918 is the Type E socket outlet in the 5UB191x DELTA i-system line. Like the 5UB1908, it conforms to the French/Belgian CEE 7/5 standard with a protruding centre earth pin — it is not a German Schuko (Type F) socket. The 5UB1918 uses the pure white (RAL 9010) finish of the 5UB191x line, distinguishing it from the electric-white 5UB1908.

What is a centre protective contact socket and how is it different from Schuko?

Schuko (Type F, CEE 7/4) sockets use two spring-loaded earth clips on the inner rim to contact the earth strip on the plug. A Type E socket instead has a fixed round earth pin projecting from the centre of the socket face, which mates with a recessed earth contact on the plug. The live and neutral pin geometry is identical, but the earthing method is fundamentally different. The 5UB1918 is for installations in France, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, and other Type E standard countries.

Can I plug a Schuko (Type F) plug into this socket?

Only if the Schuko plug is a CEE 7/7 hybrid type with both side earth strips and a recessed centre earth contact. A pure Schuko plug without the centre recess will physically insert but will not make earth contact — leaving the appliance unearthed and dangerous. Always verify plug compatibility: look for the recessed earth hole on the plug face between the two pins.

How does this differ from the electric-white 5UB1908?

The 5UB1918 and 5UB1908 are functionally and mechanically identical Type E sockets. The only difference is the white shade: 5UB1918 is pure white (similar to RAL 9010), while 5UB1908 is electric white (similar to RAL 1013). Choose based on which white matches the existing DELTA i-system frames and switches in the installation.