The switch box is one of the key components in modern building wiring projects, offering a unique solution for managing electrical connections with its distinctive design. These enclosures professionally provide the possibility of embedding wires and cables in the wall and thereby protect them from external damage such as moisture, dust, and impact. By choosing switch boxes in various dimensions and shapes, you can proceed exactly in accordance with the needs of your wiring project and guarantee the safety and efficiency of the building’s electrical system. In this article, we will examine the features and applications of this vital component so that you can make the best choice for your project. ⚡
آنچه در این صفحه میخوانید
A switch box is a rectangular metal box usually made of resistant plastic or galvanized metal, and its main role is to protect and hold electrical switches and sockets. These products provide the possibility of firmly and precisely installing electrical switches and sockets and prevent possible damage caused by impact, moisture, and pressure. The high resistance of these boxes to applied loads increases the useful life of the switches and internal electrical cables.
Switch boxes are manufactured in flush-mounted and surface-mounted types, and depending on the project’s needs, they can be installed in brick, concrete, or plaster walls. Easy installation, quick access to connections, and simple maintenance are among the most important advantages of using electrical switch boxes. This product is widely used in residential, commercial, office, and industrial buildings, and using a standard box increases safety, aesthetics, and organization in the electrical wiring system. Also, the box’s resistance to heat and moisture increases the service life of switches and sockets and prevents potential electric shock hazards.
Switch boxes are divided into various types based on the number of compartments and sockets they can accommodate, the most common of which are:
The most common type of switch box available in the market is the single-compartment switch box. This product is designed for installing one switch, socket, or any single-module electrical component and has standard dimensions. With this switch box, it is possible to install various types of single-gang switches and sockets. The most important application of single-compartment switch boxes is in homes and office buildings that require one control or connection point.
The MK double electrical switch box has a width approximately twice the width of a single-compartment switch box. With this product, it is possible to install two switches, sockets, or a combination of them alongside each other. The main application of these products is in places that require two separate control points. For example, if there is a need to install one light switch and one telephone or network socket switch, this product can be used.
The triple switch box similarly has a width three times greater than the width of single-compartment switch boxes. With this product, it is possible to install three switch modules, sockets, or a combination of them. Triple switch boxes are very suitable for spaces that require multiple controls or connections at one point, such as controlling lighting, fans, and electric curtains, or installing three power sockets in the kitchen and workplace.
The correct and engineered manufacturing of switch boxes plays a very vital role in their performance to meet the needs of engineers. Step by step, the design and manufacture of switch boxes can proceed as follows:
Product design: Initially, the box is designed using specialized software. Depending on the need, the dimensions, shape, and outputs and inputs of this box can be considered.
Selection of suitable materials: Suitable materials are used for manufacturing switch boxes. The switch boxes of Rafi Industrial Group are made of metal, but they can also be manufactured from plastic, glass, and PVC. Material selection must be carried out based on the application and requirements of the product.
Mold production: After the 3D design of the switch boxes, it is time to manufacture their molds. For fast and high-volume production, a dedicated mold is considered for each size of switch box and enclosure in factories. Then the production process will begin with these very molds.
Box production: After the mold is made, it is time for plastic injection and casting. Depending on the material used for manufacturing the switch boxes, the method of their execution also differs. Usually, the final plating for this box…
Final quality control: At the end of the production stages, the factory’s engineering department carefully inspects the manufactured key boxes. Each of the components and sections of this box must be designed in such a way as to provide the best quality and have acceptable durability against impact, moisture, and destructive factors.
The correct and proper use of switch boxes, like junction boxes, brings significant advantages in various environments. In fact, these switch boxes offer electrical safety, physical protection, and standard and professional installation, so they can be used without serious limitations and under any conditions. Below, we mention the most important advantages of these products:
Electrical safety: The most important advantage of the switch box is isolating the connections and the switch and socket mechanism, preventing contact with live parts, and significantly reducing the risk of electric shock and fire.
Physical protection: These boxes protect the internal components against impact, pressure, and the ingress of dust and moisture (depending on the type of box).
Convenient access to electrical equipment: With the presence of various switch boxes, convenient access to electrical modules such as sockets and electrical switches is provided.
Standard and organized installation: Creating a standard framework for installing switches and sockets brings order to the final appearance and ease of installation by electricians.
Easy access for repairs: In the event of a problem, the switch box provides relatively easy access to the mechanism and wiring, and there is no need for extensive demolition.
Better wiring management: The switch box provides space for organizing the incoming and outgoing wires and prevents them from tangling.
Ability to choose the number of compartments: Switch boxes have a wide variety, from single-compartment, double, and triple, which can be used based on the needs of each project.
Flexibility in design: The ability to choose a box with the desired number of compartments provides the necessary flexibility for designing control panels or the placement of sockets.
When selecting a switch box, you must definitely pay attention to its dimensions and choose the best option according to the environmental needs and the number of wires and cables to be placed inside the box. Apart from length and width, which are two important factors for purchasing switch boxes, the depth of these boxes is also of particular importance and determines its main application for flush-mounted installation. For this reason, manufacturers have divided switch boxes into two groups: deep switch boxes and standard switch boxes.
Standard switch box: The standard switch box is another type of switch box and enclosure available in the market, with a shallower depth, allowing a standard amount of wires to be placed inside it. This type of box is also used in a flush-mounted manner, but it should be noted that its capacity is not as large as a deep box, and only a limited number of wires and cables can be installed inside it.
Deep switch box: The deep electrical switch box is designed in such a way that its greater depth allows for the placement of various types of terminals, wires, and other equipment. This type of product is installed inside the wall in a flush-mounted manner. Therefore, its engineered design must be strong, anti-corrosion, and resistant. The galvanized socket box is the best choice for installation deep within the wall. Due to its greater depth, it can accommodate diverse equipment. Therefore, in environments where several wires need to be transferred simultaneously in the box and socket enclosure, this product is a more suitable option.
The price of galvanized switch and socket boxes depends on various factors that affect the final cost. These boxes are usually manufactured from galvanized metal, which increases their resistance to rust and corrosion, and for this reason, they usually have a higher price compared to plastic boxes. Various factors such as size, design, and the thickness of the galvanized sheet can affect the price. Galvanized switch and socket boxes are offered in various dimensions and shapes for various uses such as installing switches and sockets.
In addition, the brand and manufacturing quality also play an important role in determining the price. Reputable brands usually have higher prices, but they also consequently offer greater quality and durability. Since galvanized boxes are used due to their high resistance and long-term durability in various weather conditions, investing in them can lead to savings in repair and maintenance costs. Market fluctuations and changes in exchange rates can also affect prices. For this reason, it is recommended that buyers compare prices in different stores before purchasing and ensure the quality of the products. With the correct selection, the galvanized switch and socket box can significantly contribute to the safety and efficiency of the power distribution system.
In principle, just as the quality and standard structure of switch boxes in terms of dimensions and size, as well as body material and design type, is extremely important, on the other hand, their installation and connection operation is also very vital and essential. No matter how much the standards related to installing these accessories to support switches and sockets are observed, the first and foremost important matter will always be ensuring safety.
Therefore, we must go through the installation stages step by step so that in the long term, we do not witness problems related to wiring and their dangerous consequences. In the first stage, the enclosure created inside the structure must definitely have the necessary coordination and compatibility in terms of size with these switch boxes. These boxes must not be placed in a small space with applied pressure and force, because in that case, they will not be completely free, and the sensitive smart sockets and equipment will suffer damage.
On the other hand, you must select the exact size of these metal boxes in accordance with the dimensions of the switches and sockets. Most importantly, the connection of the wires is done at the terminal points. Organization in making connections is extremely important, as it prevents the scattering of wires, and you can easily have precise and good management.
۷۰×۷۰ / 50x72x72 / Sheet thickness 0.7
۷۱×۷۱ / 35x73x73 / Sheet thickness 0.7
۷۲×۷۲ / 46x75x75 / Sheet thickness 1
۷۵×۷۵ / 50x77x77 / Sheet thickness 0.7 and 0.9
The mentioned dimensions are all in millimeters, and the third variable, which includes 50, 35, 46, indicates the height or depth of the box.
MK Double Switch Box
۷۲×۱۳۲ / 35x74x134, this product with the same structural dimensions also has a depth of 47 millimeters. The sheet thickness of the switch boxes in this size and these dimensions is 0.7 and 0.9.
۷۳×۱۳۳ / 35x75x135, also have another type with a depth of 47 millimeters. The sheet thickness of this product is usually equal to one millimeter.
MK Triple Switch Box
35x72x248, this type of switch box has three compartments alongside each other, usually used for more complex wiring installations.
These mentioned dimensions are according to defined standards. However, it is also possible for a series of custom sizings to be considered for this product according to the customer’s request.
Currently, the most widely used galvanized switch boxes available in the market are the MK types as well as the standard models. The commonality of these boxes is that both are designed and manufactured from galvanized sheets of relatively similar thickness and can provide good protection for the internal connections for installing smart switches and sockets.
However, there are differences defined between these two parts, which you can even notice at the time of purchase and when handling these two boxes. The first is that MK boxes have four lugs on their edges. Specifically, each switch box consists of four sides, and on each side, a lug is provided for installing and keeping the switch and socket mechanism stable.
However, in the standard box types or the 7×7 switch box types, two lugs or screw points are provided on two opposite sides. In terms of the number of punches present on the base and also the body of the boxes, they are mostly identical. The next very important difference that can ensure the safety of the switch boxes and electronic equipment is the ability to connect the earth wire from the rear part of the MK box. You only need to turn the MK boxes over to see a small hole at their back. Using this small hole, the grounding connection operation can be carried out to prevent static electricity discharge when necessary.
On the other hand, this important capability is not designed in standard boxes. Although an earthing connection system can also be created for the standard box, the work process will be different. For this reason, MK boxes currently have higher sales statistics compared to other models. An MK switch box also has various heights. For example, in small size types, a height of 4 or 5 centimeters can also be purchased.
These switch boxes are made from pre-galvanized steel or stainless steel alloys. This type of manufacturing material, despite being able to maintain the strength and resistance of the enclosure over a long period of time, is also resistant to chemical processes. As mentioned, a very important capability of these switch enclosures is that they are pre-galvanized.
This structural advantage will ensure that the boxes do not rust in the humid conditions of the environment inside the structure. Although the thickness of these boxes is up to a maximum of one millimeter or less, they can effectively create ideal physical protection for the internal connections.
As you can see in the image, there are several holes or cavities in the body and also the base of the switch boxes. These holes differ from each other in terms of size. In single-compartment switch boxes, there are usually two holes of size PG13.5 on two opposite sides. Two other holes are of size PG16, which are also located on two opposite sides. In addition, there are three holes of size PG13.5 in the base of the square socket boxes.
In boxes designed as double, there are two holes on each small side, one of which is size PG13.5 and the other hole is size M25. The larger side of the switch box also has four holes, two of which are size PG13.5 and the other two are size M25. Usually, four holes of size PG13.5 are provided in the base of double boxes. Similarly, in triple types, the number of inputs and outputs increases.
Suggested article: Buying guide for electrical switch boxes, types of models and their applications
As mentioned, there are numerous punches and holes in the body of the switch boxes. Their structure is such that there is a movable and detachable sheet in their opening, which you can easily detach by applying a slight force. Of course, in some types of these switch boxes, it is possible to create punches in various sizes based on the project’s needs. For this reason, their position and, most importantly, the size of the punches can be changed so that through this, you can have a completely custom cabling system.
Given that these parts are usually flush-mounted, it is definitely necessary for the depth of the wall to be excavated based on the dimensions of these boxes. The more precision you have in the installation and execution process of these parts inside the wall, the more the safety of your project will naturally increase in future time periods.
Dear customers can purchase various types of these parts, including the 7×7 switch box, as well as double and triple types, and the MK deep switch box, with the highest level of manufacturing quality from Rafi Industrial Group. In addition, our group also manufactures junction boxes, and you can obtain them as well. You can contact the experts of this manufacturing group to become familiar with the purchasing process and also obtain specialized consultation regarding your project.
