Geert Uytterhoeven@jwildeboer @figuratum Enjoy the sparks when (un)plugging ;-)
figuratum@geert @jwildeboer Would not be a problem as long as the plus is connected to the tip contact I think?
@geert @jwildeboer Actually, sleeve would be better for the plus if sparks are the main concern. However I don't think it matters so much, as the USB PD electronics will disable the power very quickly and there should not be more than 100uF on each end of Vbus.
@jwildeboer Last reply for today. I think your original XLR idea might work even without connecting the shield to minus. Only one CC "data" wire seems to be necessary: https://community.silabs.com/s/article/what-s-the-role-of-cc-pin-in-type-c-solution
Kevin Karhan 
@figuratum @jwildeboer There's however a reason why USB-C maxes out at 48V DC @ 5A and if you need strain relief and unplug/pull prevention there are "#Neutrik-Cinnectors" which basically take the keyed shield & latch from #XLR and just insert a different plug into those.