Metal Clad Sockets and Switches

[brightspark11]

I'm newly qualified and would appreciate some advice on the following:
Under what circumstances should I use metal clad sockets etc and metal boxes instead of the white plastic types? I can't see anything in BS7671 that specifies when they are needed.

 

[trev]

As an example, when you could reasonably forsee damage to plastic accessories you would use metal clad.

 

[telectrix]

you use metalclad sockets and switches in industrial environments. in the domestic field, these may well be used in a garage etc. where plastic accessories would be subject to damage from impacts etc. generally these metalclads would be wired using conduit.

- - - Updated - - -

beaten to it by the rampamt geordie lad.

 

[Top Cat]

Industrial or anywhere that damage is likely to occur. Haven't looked in the BGB to check though.

That was fast!

 

[Guitarist]

As tel says, generally industrial or domestic where additional impact protection may be needed. You could even argue that a games room may be susceptible damaged sockets, so metalclad would be prudent there.
Basically, no rules. Just where you need protection.

 

[Rockingit]

It's all about environment and susceptibility to damage. You have to make your own judgement unless the customer has specifically stated. So for example, you add an extra socket, surface mount, in a conservatory. There's not a lot of risks to it, unlikely to get bashed on a regular basis, so plastic/pvc is fine. However, add that same socket into a farm workshop and the risks to it increase tenfold of being walloped etc, so it's better to be steel.

Make sense? Also, if you're wiring in conduit then they're a whole load easier to work with than pvc ones!

 

[Guitarist]

I think that there is a common misconception amongst many sparks that metalclad can only be used in an industrial environment. I hope our comments have put that to bed for you mate

 

[telectrix]

I think that there is a common misconception amongst many sparks that metalclad can only be used in an industrial environment. I hope our comments have put that to bed for you mate

i wouldn't have a metalclad by my bed, even though there's a chance of impact damage, LOL. :wub:

 

[brightspark11]

Thanks everyone, I think the summary is that it's a judgement about the likelihood of damage to the socket.

 

[Top Cat]

i wouldn't have a metalclad by my bed, even though there's a chance of impact damage, LOL. :wub:

Is that while doing the vacuuming?

 

[telectrix]

more like pumping.

 

[trev]

Crikey your farts must be mighty Tel

 

[Inteificio]

Feeling a bit thick now.
Have always used metal for industrial and plastic for commercial, but never realised that was the reason behind it.... more stuff learnt, i like this site.