Power supply in commercial and industrial settings vastly differs from that at home. The huge machines churning out products we use daily require a secure connection, and function in adverse environments where pervasive heat, chemicals and moisture are persistent risks that can damage equipment, cause bodily harm and affect production. They must also often deal with higher loads and voltages.
With better build, higher-grade materials and the ability to work under difficult conditions, industrial switchgear in the lineups of established brands like Clipsal and Schneider are made to work without fault, last longer and ensure that no injuries occur where and when they're used. Examples can be seen in both single and three-phase plugs and sockets, like the 56p320 straight plugs, as well as appliance outlets, surface switches, switched sockets and more. These are used to connect and supply power to appliances, machinery and equipment in diverse settings, from home garages and sheds to construction sites, warehouses and factories.
Essential Properties of Industrial Plugs, Switches and Sockets
Industrial switchgear needs to be tough, compact, easy to maintenance and lightweight. Sockets, switches and plugs are mostly made of engineered plastics, offer unmatched safety and security, meet current electrical and wiring rules and standards and come in a variety options. They must also be:
Mechanically-resistant
There are dozens of things that can go wrong in typical industrial settings, with impact, vibrations and the risks of power cuts or electrical faults a major concern. Plugs and switches in these places need to be built to endure dents, scratches, the weight of falling items and machinery and still operate as advertised. To that end, switchgear is made of impact-resistant plastics, mainly polycarbonate outers, To ensure uninterrupted power supply, the 56p320 and similar industrial plugs (the two-pin 56p210, the flat pin 56p315 and multi-pin variants like the 56p540 and 56p550) all feature screwed rings to secure the plugs to matching sockets.
Chemically-resistant
Clipsal and other switchgear brands make distinguishing between residential and industrial gear easier with simple colourways. This also tells you where plugs, sockets and switches can be used and the chemicals used in many production processes they can withstand. For instance, sockets and switched sockets in grey have screw caps and contoured profiles to eliminate dust buildup and transparent covers made from moulded plastics to keep out dirt, water and other contaminants. Chemically-resistant plugs and sockets in chemical orange go one step further and include resistance to common solvents, acids, lubricants, oils and detergents, and come with an industry-standard IP-66 rating for use in harsher indoor and demanding outdoor areas.
Resistance to Temperature Extremes
Switchgear is also used in areas like cold rooms, furnaces, when connecting welding machines and other settings where temperature extremes can cause damage and deformation to internal connections and outer housings. The hardened plastics fare well across multiple industries, with working temperatures ranging from -25 to +75 degrees. For higher temperature resistance, manufacturers also have dedicated lines, like the metal-clad Clipsal WilcoROWCO range.
Main Factors When Choosing the Right Switchgear
Choosing switches, sockets and plugs is based on your power needs, the type of power supply (single vs. three-phase), the appliance and equipment you're connecting and the level of required protection in the desired setting. There are plugs and sockets in varying voltage, current and frequency ratings, and most also have an IP rating against water and dust ingress.
Voltage ratings refer to the maximum voltage the plug or socket can withstand without enduring damage or causing an electrical fault. This can be for low-voltage (between 32 and 110V), standard voltages of 250V and high voltages of up to 500V. For instance, the 56p320 is a standard voltage plug with three round pins, able to optimally operate at voltages of up to 250V. Adversely, the 56p550 mentioned above is used in three-phase connections, has 5 round pins and can happily supply power to connected equipment at 500V.
Current ratings refer to the maximum current plugs, switches and sockets can endure without overheating. This is given in amperes (A) and ranges from 10 to 63A. Our sample 56p320 plug has a 32A rating to ensure added protection in supplying power to connected appliances and machinery.
Related are frequency ratings. This is the frequency of the alternating current the switchgear can take without impacting the longevity of the connections and is stated in Hertz (Hz). Standard plugs and sockets usually operate at 50Hz, while extreme-duty variants up to 400Hz.
Water and dust ingress can potentially damage not only the switchgear but also connected wiring and equipment. Most industrial plugs, switches and sockets have an IP rating, with the first digit indicating the level of protection against dust or impact, and the second against moisture, water, chemicals, oil and other liquids. Switchgear in the Clipsal 56 series offers IP66 or above, meaning it can endure splashes, sprays and lighter water jets (though is not technically waterproof) and a high degree of dust resistance.
Lastly, there are angled or straight plugs, depending on how or where they're used and whether space restrictions apply, as well as surface mounted and flush sockets and switches to meet individual wiring needs.
