Metal Clad Switches & Sockets
Metal clad switches and sockets are wiring accessories with heavy gauge steel faceplates and surface boxes, built for garages, workshops, factories and plant rooms where plastic plates could crack or be damaged. They are surface mounted on matching metal back boxes with knockouts for conduit or cable entry.
The range covers 1 to 6 gang 2 way switches, 13A switched sockets, fused spurs with neon, metal clad grid faceplates from 1 to 12 gang and Knightsbridge sockets. Trade pricing is available on account, and orders for stock items placed by 5pm are delivered next working day across NI and ROI.
Choosing metal clad switches and sockets
Metal clad accessories trade the decorative look of a flush plate for strength. They are surface mounted, so they suit unplastered block walls, steel framing and areas where cables run in conduit or trunking on the surface.
What the range covers
- 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 gang 2 way light switches, including 10AX rated versions
- 13A single and double switched sockets, including double pole
- 13A fused spur units with neon indicators for fixed equipment
- Grid faceplates from 1 to 12 gang with mounting frames for custom modules
- 1 gang and 2 gang back boxes and larger surface mount boxes
Key things to check
Match the faceplate to the correct metal box so the plate sits flat and the earth connection is secure. Metal clad plates and boxes must be earthed, so connect the protective conductor to the earth terminal and use a fly lead where needed. Plan cable entries using the 20mm knockouts and fit suitable bushes or glands; our steel conduit and galvanised trunking pair well with metal clad boxes. Remove sharp edges from knockouts to protect cable insulation.
Where to use metal clad
Typical applications include domestic garages and sheds, farm buildings, workshops, warehouses, plant rooms and back-of-house areas in commercial kitchens. Metal clad accessories are not weatherproof, so for outdoor or wet positions use IP rated weatherproof switches and sockets instead. Always check current wiring regulations (BS 7671), including RCD protection for socket circuits.
Meteor Electrical carries 5,000+ products in stock across our Cookstown warehouse and depots in Cashel and Saggart. Order in-stock metal clad lines by 5pm Monday to Friday for next working day delivery across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
FAQ's
- Are metal clad sockets suitable for outdoor use?
- How do you earth a metal clad socket?
- What does 10AX mean on a metal clad switch?
- Do metal clad switches need special back boxes?
- Can I fit grid modules into a metal clad plate?
- Should I use 20mm conduit with metal clad boxes?