What to Look for When Buying Industrial Sockets and Switchgear

Equipping your industrial facility with electrical outlets isn’t the same as installing outlets in your home. Industrial outlets power a lot of heavy-duty machinery and appliances, which means that the average socket probably won’t make the cut. But with so many different types of sockets, outlets and switches available nowadays, how do you pick the right ones? The wrong power outlet can easily compromise the safety and efficiency of your machinery, which may result in lost revenue, or pose a fire hazard.

When shopping for industrial switchgear, outlets and sockets, make sure they comply with AS/NZS3123. If they do, then this almost always means that the industrial switchgear, outlets, and sockets are tough, durable, safe and that they will provide a reliable performance under extreme conditions. Additionally, features like UV and dust resistance can all be extremely beneficial in heavy-duty industrial settings. Lastly, the aesthetics of the socket, switch or outlet can also come into play if there are customers going in and out of your facility.

There are specialized sockets and switches for industrial facilities that house and handle chemicals. These sockets and switches offer chemical resistance and are usually built using tough plastic materials, due to the fact that plastic is resistant to many chemicals including lubricants, oils, animal fats, and solvents. Furthermore, temperature resistance is also something you should consider because generic sockets and switches perform well in the -25°C – 75°C range, but some facilities go below and above these parameters.

On the Australian market, you’ll come across three-phase round-pin sockets of various sizes which are standardized by current and neutral circuit rating. Each socket can accept plugs that are up to its rating, but it excludes plugs with a higher current rating and neutral pin. Multi-phase plugs and sockets are usually rated up to 500V and they all feature an earth connection. If you fit them correctly, they’ll be IP56 rated. Additionally, they feature a screw collar that can keep the plug and socket together.

Simply put, industrial sockets and switches ensure a stable electrical connection to machines and appliances that are rated at a higher voltage and current. They’re commonly used in multi-phased systems when hazard protection is necessary. Industrial outlets can feature weatherproof covers, waterproof sleeves, and a wide range of other features, depending on the model. When shopping, make sure the models you’re looking at are IP56 rated and that they comply with the AS/NZS3123 code.