How to replace electrical meter box timber door?

[damien-22]

Needing to replace door on electrical meter box, what wood panel can be used for this?

something that wont rot and get damaged with water? 

[EricL]

Hello @damien-22 

If the former cover was wood, I suggest using Marine plywood for outdoor durability. But if you can find an original metal cover it would be technically safer as it will not catch on fire should an electrical fault happen inside the box. Another type of wood you can use is Merbau, it is often used for decking and is usually pre-oiled. 

Please take appropriate care when working near your electrical meter box. Make sure to wear personal protection such as rubber gloves and goggles.

Let me call on our experienced member @CSParnell for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[damien-22]

Hi Eric. Yes the former is wood. 

Is there a metal cover material at Bunnings that could be used to replace the wood cover?

[Jason]

What are the dimensions of the box @damien-22?

Jason

[damien-22]

Hi Jason. 415 x 735mm

[EricL]

Hello @damien-22 

I suggest looking at the 1220 x 610mm 12mm Plywood Hardwood Marine AA Grade. I then recommend using Porta 42x18mm 2.7m DAR Rectangle H3 Primed FJ Pine to frame it.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[CSParnell]

Unfortunately it's not that simple there are rules and regulations around every thing to do with electrical.

So here here is the overview on low voltage switchboard construction.

Regulations on Switchboard Materials – AS/NZS 3000:2018

Switchboard materials must comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 (Wiring Rules) and AS/NZS 61439 (Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies). These standards ensure switchboards are constructed from materials that provide mechanical strength, electrical insulation, fire resistance, and durability.

Key Requirements for Switchboard Materials

1. Non-combustible and Fire-Resistant Materials

   • Switchboard enclosures must be made from materials that are resistant to fire and excessive heat.
   • AS/NZS 3000:2018 Clause 2.10.3.2.2 states that switchboards must be constructed of materials that minimize fire risks, such as metal or self-extinguishing plastics.

2. Mechanical Strength and Durability

   • Materials must be able to withstand impact, vibration, and environmental conditions.
   • Clause 2.10.3.2.1 requires switchboards to be "sufficiently robust" to prevent damage during installation and use.

3. Electrical Insulation and Protection

   • Non-conductive insulating materials must be used to prevent accidental contact with live parts.
   • Clause 2.10.3.4 requires barriers and insulation to prevent electric shock hazards.

4. Corrosion Resistance

   • Materials must be suitable for their environment, especially in corrosive or outdoor conditions.
   • Clause 2.10.3.2.1 specifies that enclosures should be resistant to environmental factors like moisture, dust, and chemicals.
   • AS/NZS 61439.1 Clause 10.2.4 provides additional guidance on corrosion resistance.

5. Flame Propagation and Thermal Resistance

   • AS/NZS 61439.1 Clause 10.2.3 requires switchboards to be tested for flame resistance and thermal stability.

6. IP Rating for Environmental Protection

   • Switchboards must have appropriate Ingress Protection (IP) ratings for their location.
   • Clause 2.10.3.3 states that enclosures should have a suitable IP rating, such as:
     • IP2X minimum for indoor domestic switchboards.
     • IP3X or higher for commercial and industrial applications.
     • IPX4 or higher for outdoor or wet areas.

7. Compliance with Bushfire Regulations (Where Applicable)

   • In bushfire-prone areas, additional requirements may apply for fire-resistant enclosures.

Common Materials Used in Switchboards

• Steel (Powder-coated or Stainless Steel) – Durable and fire-resistant, commonly used in commercial and industrial switchboards.
• Polycarbonate or Flame-Retardant Plastic – Lightweight, non-conductive, and corrosion-resistant, often used in residential or outdoor switchboards.
• Aluminium – Corrosion-resistant and lightweight, used in specialized applications.

[EricL]

Hello @CSParnell 

Thank you for that extra information in regards to the switch board. Let me tag @damien-22 to make them aware of the rules in regards to replacing their meter box door.

Eric

[EricL]

Hello @damien-22 

I just wanted to let you know that @CSParnell has posted the rules in regards to the type of materials that can be used on switchboards and switchgear along with control gear assemblies. I believe it's best to follow the rules and use the recommended materials such as powder coated steel, plastic and aluminium. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric