Why Does Color Code Of High Voltage Rubber Mat Matter- Details Inside

Published On: August 23rd, 2024

    Do you know that the color coding on high voltage rubber mats is not only for aesthetic purposes? Why does a rubber mat manufacturer make electrical mats in blue, red, or green colors?

    The color codes in electric safety matting serve a purpose beyond mere decoration.
    For electrical safety, a rubber mat for electrical room is indispensable because their di-electric strength safeguards the workers from electric accidents. They are made of elastomer- a rubber compound with natural electric resistance properties.

    However, if the functionality of the high voltage rubber mats is just this much- then why do you need to be specific about their colors? Black safety matting would have easily served the purpose.
    Thinking why people customize their rubber safety mats? Do not worry, we will decode the color factor in this blog.

    Color is a powerful signaling tool. The production floors or maintenance areas usually have a dull appearance. A dash of color helps in the mind refreshment of the workers. Appropriate colors also help in company branding.

    Why does the rubber mat for electrical room color coding matter?

     

    Color coding in high voltage insulating mats is essential for:

    • Enhanced Safety: Some colors have a deep psychological impact. For example, your workers can easily associate a red-colored mat with an area of extreme danger.
    • Compliance: The IEC suggests color coding on the IEC high voltage rubber mats. Hence, using appropriate colors on them makes them compliant.
    • Easy Identification: Color-coded electric mats are visible and can be identified easily.

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    Understanding color codes for high voltage insulating mats

    The electric mats are made following different standards in different countries. For example, the IEC 61111 mats are made for global usage. You can use them in South Asian countries like Malaysia or Indonesia.

    In the GCC countries, especially in the Saudi, only high-quality electric mats should be used because of the extreme environment.

    On the other hand, in Mexico and other parts of North America, the ASTM D178 mats are accepted.
    Here is an overview of the common colors used to make and identify a rubber mat for electrical room:

    Black Mats

    • Usage: Most common and readily available variant. Used for general purposes.

    • Significance: Black high voltage rubber mats are versatile. They easily blend with the floor color, too. In the energy generation, oil, and gas industries in the UAE, black mats are traditionally used.

    Red Mats

    • Usage: Red is the color of danger. Therefore, red safety matting is often used in high-risk areas where higher voltage protection is required.

    • Significance: Red mats signify danger and high voltage, making them easily recognizable in critical areas. Red high voltage electrical mats can be used in places where there is a fire risk. The electrical mats are fire-retardant and can prevent the spread of flames during short circuits. Duratuf X-volt high voltage electrical mats are available in red color. Check out their tech specs now!

    Blue Mats

    • Usage: Used for specific high voltage applications and can indicate a special category of protection. They are widely used in industries like power generation and mining.

    • Significance: Blue mats can denote specialized use cases or standards compliance. The bright blue color does not blend in the background. Hence, it reduces the chance of worker falls, slips, and trips in high-traffic areas.

    Color coding on a rubber mat for electrical room and international standards

    The International Electrotechnical Commission suggests the use of color coding on the product labels of high voltage rubber mats.

    The colors change with the classes of IEC 61111:2009 safety matting:

    IEC 61111 Electric Mat Classes

    Class 0 (Red)

    • Maximum Working Voltage: 1,000V
    • Proof Voltage: 5,000V
    • Withstand Voltage: 10,000V
    • Use: Suitable for low voltage applications.

    Class 1 (White)

    • Maximum Working Voltage: 7,500V
    • Proof Voltage: 10,000V
    • Withstand Voltage: 20,000V
    • Use: Suitable for medium voltage applications.

    Class 2 (Yellow)

    • Maximum Working Voltage: 17000V
    • Proof Voltage: 20,000V
    • Withstand Voltage: 30,000V
    • Use: Suitable for high voltage applications.

    Class 3 (Green)

    • Maximum Working Voltage: 26,500V
    • Proof Voltage: 30,000V
    • Withstand Voltage: 40,000V
    • Use: Suitable for very high voltage applications.

    Class 4 (Orange)

    • Maximum Working Voltage: 36000V
    • Proof Voltage: 40,000V
    • Withstand Voltage: 50,000V
    • Use: Suitable for extremly high voltage applications.

    Other specifications that are mentioned in the product labels of the IEC rubber safety mat are:

    • name, trademark, or identification of the manufacturer
    • symbol IEC 60417-5216 (2002-10) – Suitable for live working
    • double triangle
    • number of the relevant IEC standard immediately adjacent to the symbol (IEC 61111)
    • month and year of manufacture
    • category if applicable
    • class designation

    To Summarize

    Colors play an important role in our decision-making process. They help in the quick identification of safety equipment like an electrical mat. However, it can be overwhelming at times to understand how to choose the correct high voltage rubber mats for your business applications.
    This is where our experts come into the picture. We are there to guide you with practical advice. Still confused about selecting the best electric mats for high voltages?
    Reach out to our experts now!

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