When does an electric shock proof rubber mat fail to provide insulation?

 

Picture the consequences of insulating mats that fail to offer insulation. Burns, paralysis, or even immediate death! Are you ready to face these consequences when safety falls short?

Do you know when and why an electric shockproof rubber mat fails to provide insulation? 

Are you sure that you are using it right? What extra care should you take to ensure your electrical safety?

An electric shockproof rubber mat is protective equipment. It ensures your electrical safety during electrical accidents like arc flashes, short circuits, and others. Major industries in Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and other countries of the world use these mats to ensure electrical safety in their industries. 

When a person touches an energized wire, he gets an electric shock. In this process, the current tends to reach the ground through the low-resistance path, i.e., the human body. An electrical mat offers a barrier between the ground and the voltage source. Being made of rubber, it resists the flow of current through unintended paths.

Let us now check.

When does an electric shockproof rubber mat fail to offer insulation?

1. Mismatch of ratings

Suppose you are using a 7.5 kV electric shockproof rubber mat for a 36 kV application. The dielectric strength of your mat will not be able to support the working voltage. As a result, your electric shockproof rubber mat will have a dielectric breakdown. It will gradually start conducting electricity. 

Electric shockproof mats are categorized into different classes. Different classes have different voltage-withstanding capacities. Each electric shockproof rubber mat has a specific rating. As a result, they are suitable for particular applications. 

2. Inadequate thickness

Thicker electrical shockproof mats have higher insulating properties. As we go down the classes, the thickness of insulating mats increases with their voltage-withstanding capacity. 

If you install an electric shockproof rubber mat with inadequate thickness, it becomes conductive. Thus, it fails to offer insulation. 

3. Moisture contact: 

Water is a good conductor of electricity. Every guide of electric-shock protection mats will ask you to keep them away from water. Moisture makes the electric shock-proof rubber mat conductive. Hence, in place of offering a non-conductive barrier, it will let current conduct through unintended paths. 

Do you know what determines the electric shock-proof rubber mat price? 

There are certain factors that influence the electric shock-proof rubber mat price. At first, reliable and renowned suppliers usually quote higher prices. However, it is also related to the quality of the mats. The electric shockproof rubber mat price also depends on the quantity of the mats. 

4. Mechanical damage

An electric shockproof rubber mat with physical damage will conduct electricity. Wear and tear will hamper its insulating properties. This is the reason electric shockproof mats manufacturer guidelines advise users to do regular visual checking. You should immediately repair or replace your electric shockproof mats when you notice any signs of damage. 

5. Exposure to extreme temperatures: 

An electric shockproof rubber mat might swell in extremely high temperatures. On the other hand, it can become brittle and develop cracks in extremely low temperatures. In both cases, the electrical safety rubber mats start conducting electricity. 

6. Chemical exposure: 

Your electric shockproof rubber mat will degrade when exposed to harsh chemicals. A reliable electric shockproof mat manufacturer will suggest you avoid using harsh acids to clean it. It starts to fade and disintegrate eventually. Hence, after a point of time, it fails to offer insulation. 

7. Inefficient coverage: 

You should have accurate measurements of the application area before purchasing a mat. Your electric shockproof rubber mat should completely cover your application area. In case you step outside the mat while operating a faulty appliance, you will still get an electric shock.

To wrap it up, 

It is simple and easy! Damaged mats fail to provide insulation. Hence, make sure to follow electric shock-proof mats manufacturer guidelines for proper maintenance. 

FAQ

What are the different tests that are conducted on a shock proof rubber mat?

Manufacturers conduct different tests to check the quality of the mats and guarantee their performance. Some of the tests are: the dielectric strength test, hardness test, fire resistance test, and electrical insulation test.

What qualities of electric-shock protection mats should you consider before purchasing?

Before purchasing shock prevention mats, check if their rating suits your application. Choose the mat with adequate thickness. Besides, ensure having proper measurements for proper coverage. Moreover, check its AC-proof voltage and dielectric strength before buying it.

Where can you get the best electric shock proof rubber mat?

You can choose Duratuf to get premium quality insulating rubber mats at a competitive price. Their insulating mats adhere to the IEC 61111:2009, ASTM D-178, and IS 15652:2006 standards. Duratuf's mats have high durability, and dielectric strength and come with anti-skid designs. In addition, they offer customization options.