Where are the Insulating Mats Used? Industry-Wise Applications
Why Electrical Insulating Mats are one of the essentials for industries? Have you ever paused and thought about electrical safety at your industrial premises?
Stepping into an industrial workspace often means encountering a collection of machinery and, lights mixed with controlled chaos. With everything running on electricity, the industrial production areas stay on the edge of mishaps- one act of neglect, and be prepared for severe consequences.
Worker death, hefty fines, workday loss, and whatnot!
Nonetheless, here one thing plays a key role in casting a safety shield- the electrical insulating mats. Seemingly the same, each industry has varied usage of electrical insulation mats.
Are you curious about how the usage of electrical insulation mats varies with the industry? If yes then this blog is for you. Read on…
P.S. Electrical Insulation Mats are a costly investment. Hence, if you do not think before you buy electrical insulation mats, you may not be able to buy the right product.
Industry Wise Applications Of The Electrical Insulation Mats
#1 Power Generation And Distribution Stations
It can be a thermal power plant or one that focuses on renewable forms of energy, an insulating mat is requisite.
- Power Plants: Insulation mats are essential in power plants around high-voltage transformers, switch gear, and control panels. Technicians working on high-voltage equipment stand on these mats for added protection.
- Substations: Substations house electrical transformers and switching equipment for power distribution. Once the electrical energy leaves the transmission network, the voltage is lowered in the substation for distribution in homes and other places.
- Distribution Lines: Electrical linemen working on overhead or underground power lines often utilize portable insulating mats when servicing high-voltage equipment on the ground.
#2 Manufacturing And Production
Why should one use insulating mats for electrical purposes? Especially in the manufacturing and production sector? This is the answer:
- Assembly Lines: Manufacturing facilities often utilize high-voltage electrical equipment for machinery operation and automation. High voltage insulating mats provide protection for workers responsible for maintaining electrical components on assembly lines.
- Chemical Plants: Chemical plants frequently utilize electrical equipment for various processes like running the mixers or conveyor systems. The electrical insulation mats safeguard workers from electrical hazards in these potentially hazardous environments.
- Metalworking and Fabrication: Metalworking and fabrication shops extensively use electricity for welding equipment or CNC machines. An electrical insulation mat for 11 kV or higher voltage helps prevent electrical shock for operators working near these machines.
#3 Construction And Maintenance
Electrical safety should be uncompromising at every stage of construction. starting with preparing the base to ensure the complete safety of the residents of a building, only the electrical insulating mats can keep you safe!
- Electrical Work: Electricians installing, repairing, or maintaining electrical systems rely on high voltage insulating mats for protection when working with live circuits or exposed wiring.
- Building Maintenance: Building maintenance personnel who work on electrical panels, fixtures, or building automation systems can benefit from electrical insulation mats for added safety.
- Data Centers: Data centers contain critical electrical equipment for server operation and network connectivity. An insulating mat protects technicians while they work on system maintenance.
#4 Oil & Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry is another essential industrial sector. here the electrical insulation mats have both outdoor and indoor usage.
- Oil Refineries: Oil refineries have numerous electrical components for various processes. There are transformers, generators, conductors, and plenty of circuits. Some areas in the oil refineries may need electrical insulating mats offering low voltage protection but in most areas, high protection is needed.
- Offshore Rigs: Offshore oil rigs rely heavily on electricity for operation. Moreover, since the environment is harsh, the insulation mats be well-built to stay strong. In this case, an electrical insulation mat with fire-resistant properties is practical to choose from.
#4 Transportation
- Mass Transit: The maintenance people working on high-voltage electrical systems powering trams, subways, or electric trains need insulating mats for protection.
- Aviation: Airport maintenance personnel servicing electrical systems or ground support equipment stays safe with the usage of high voltage insulating mats.
- Marine: Passenger ships, commercial ones, and even submarines have an intricate web of high-voltage equipment inside them that powers the engine. Therefore, if you are thinking, ‘Why should one use insulating mats for electrical purposes?’ Specifically, in marine applications. The answer is simple- for electrical safety!
How To Select The Right Electrical Insulation Mats?
Why do you need to select the right insulating mats? According to the National Library of Medicine, tragically, almost 1000 lose their life each year due to electrical injuries. Therefore, urgent attention to safety practices is crucial.
Well, the first and foremost thing to check is the authenticity of an electrical insulating mat. You will get hundreds of electrical insulating mats manufacturers offering electrical insulation mats at a low price. But how to be sure of the quality until you use them?
Well, you can vouch for the test certificates for the purpose. Other points to consider are:
- Voltage Rating: Electrical insulation mats are rated for a specific voltage level, indicating the maximum voltage they can effectively insulate against. There are three types of insulating mats as per the testing standards- IS 15652, ASTM D178, and IEC 61111.
Each type is further divided into multiple classes with varied working voltage levels and thicknesses. Ask the electrical insulating mats supplier thoroughly before you choose. - Material And Construction: The most common material for insulating mats is elastomer infused with other compounds. However, some specialized applications might require mats made from other non-conductive materials like PVC.
- Size And Thickness: The size and thickness of the mat will depend on the work area and the desired level of protection. Many users tend to overlap the electrical insulating mats to get their desired thickness. It is never recommended as it may expose the workers to accidents from slips, trips, and falls.
In A Nutshell
Hopefully, now you have developed an idea about- Why Industry Needs Electrical Insulating Mats These Days? But now the challenge is to find a supplier who commits to high quality and sticks to it. You can ask your fellow buyers in the industry or look up the internet to get the credentials of the electrical insulating mats supplier.
Pro-tip: Check their certifications, client lists, and major projects handled before you finalize anything.
