What Makes Specialised Industrial Outlets a Great Idea for Commercial Settings
As you already know, electrical outlets are an essential part of any facility’s electric system. They’re used on a daily basis to power all the machinery and appliances, so it’s important that you choose the right outlets for each room inside your premises. With so many different types of plugs, sockets and switches available, you might get confused as to which type is ideal for your application. As insignificant as they may sound to the inexperienced buyer, any electrician worth their penny will often emphasize the importance that an industrial socket, plug and switch has for the safety and efficiency of your machinery.
As a general rule, the industrial switch, plug or socket has to be tough, safe, and provide a reliable performance under different adverse conditions. Features such as dust, hoseproof and UV resistance can all be of significant importance in heavy-duty industrial environments. Moreover, the aesthetic appeal can also come into play if you need them for a commercial setting such as a shopping centre or a warehouse. Additionally, the industrial switch, plug or socket will have to comply with AS/NZS3123.
Furthermore, if the facility houses chemical components, then chemical resistance can also be an important feature. These outlets are typically built with tough plastic materials, which offers superior resistance to a wide range of chemicals, which makes them ideal for facilities with corrosive and industrial chemicals, oils, lubricants, solvents and even animal fats. Besides chemical resistance, temperature resistance can be something also worth considering. Generic outlets perform well in temperatures between -25°C to +75°C. For temperatures outside of this range, you’ll want to look for outlets that specify how well they perform in extreme temperatures.
In Australia, there are various sized three-phase round-pin sockets standardized by neutral circuit and current rating. Every socket accepts plugs up to its rating and excludes plugs with a neutral pin and higher current rating. Multi-phase sockets and plugs are rated up to 500V and they all include an earth connection. If fitted correctly, the plugs and sockets are IP56 rated, and they feature a screw collar that helps hold the socket and plug together.
To sum it up, industrial, multi-phase plugs, sockets and switches provide a connection to electrical mains that are rated at higher currents and voltages than the typical household plugs and sockets. They’re usually used in polyphase systems when protection from hazards is required and with high currents. Industrial outlets may have waterproof sleeves, weatherproof covers, or they may feature a switch which ensures that an energized plug doesn’t accidentally disconnect.
