Electrical insulating rubber mats are essential safety tools. I've gathered information on their purpose, key specifications, and available options based on product information from several manufacturers and distributors.
For a quick overview, here are some examples of commercially available insulating mats:
| Product / Type | Primary Standard | Voltage Class / Max Use | Typical Thickness | Key Features / Notes | Sample Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Switchboard Mat | Various | Up to 20,000V (as cited)-1 | Varies | Fire-retardant, diamond/corrugated texture for traction-1 | NoTrax-1 |
| IEC 61111 Class 0 | IEC 61111:2009-4 | 1.0 kV-4 | 2 mm (recommended)-4 | Basic insulation for low-voltage areas-4-6 | Duratuf-4, Eintac-6 |
| IEC 61111 Class 2 | IEC 61111:2009-4 | 17.0 kV-4 | 3 mm (recommended)-4 | For medium-voltage applications-4 | Duratuf-4 |
| IEC 61111 Class 4 | IEC 61111:2009-4 | 36.0 kV-4 | 5 mm (recommended)-4 | For high-voltage environments-4-7 | Duratuf-4 |
| ASTM D178 Class 2 | ASTM D178-8 | 17.5 kV (working)-8 | 6.5 mm-8 | Meets specific US standards; ozone, flame, oil resistant-8 | Powerandcables.com-8 |
???? Key Specifications to Understand
When selecting a mat, pay close attention to these critical parameters, as they directly relate to safety and compliance:
Voltage Ratings: This is the most crucial factor. Manufacturers specify several levels:
Maximum Use/Working Voltage: The highest voltage at which the mat is designed to be used safely (e.g., 1.0 kV, 17.5 kV, 36.0 kV)-4-7-8.
Proof Test Voltage & Withstand Voltage: Higher voltages the mat is tested to endure without breaking down-4-7. Never use a mat at voltages exceeding its specified maximum working voltage.
Standards & Compliance: Mats are tested to specific industry standards. Key ones include:
IEC 61111: An international standard. Mats are categorized into classes (0-4), each with defined voltage ratings-4.
ASTM D178: A common American standard, with types and classes for different performance requirements (e.g., oil, flame, ozone resistance)-8.
Using mats that comply with recognized standards like these helps meet regulatory requirements (e.g., OSHA)-2.
Physical Properties:
Material: Typically made from elastomers, a blend of natural and synthetic rubber, chosen for its dielectric (insulating) properties-3-4.
Thickness: Directly related to voltage rating. Common range is 2mm to 10mm+-3-4. Higher voltage ratings require greater thickness.
Surface Design: Look for anti-slip textures like diamond plates, fine ribs, or corrugated patterns on one or both sides to prevent slips and falls -1-4-8.https://store.unigulfsupply.com/product/electrical-insulating-rubber-mats/