1000V Rubber Matting and 4 Other Electrical Mat Types Used in Australia
Are you a dielectric rubber mats buyer in Australia confused about making the right choice? Whether you want to buy corrugated rubber matting for electricity or rubber mat for electrical substation- the right product saves you money in the long run.
In Australia, there are many types of rubber mats for electrical safety available. Since most industries are inclining towards electrical safety nowadays, different electrical insulating mat variants are launching in the market. Electrical safety standards are upgrading. Therefore, buying dielectric rubber mats in Australia can be confusing.
But, do not worry. Here, we will discuss all 1000V rubber matting-one of the most popular kinds and other 4 types of electrical mats, specifically available in Australia.
What is a 1000V Rubber Matting?
The 1000V rubber matting is an electric safety flooring mat placed on the floor near a high voltage machine. Due to its dielectric and non-conductive surface, this floor mat protects people standing on it, from sudden electrical shocks.
The ‘1000’ in 1000V stands for 1000 volts which is 1 kV. Normally, 440 Volts or above is considered a high voltage. However, in industrial setups, machines often run on electric voltages above 440 Volts.
Simplifying the definition, 1000V rubber matting is a type of electrical insulating mats Australia that can protect you against 1000 Volts or 1 kV.
A rubber mat in electrical room is manufactured following the IS 15652, IEC 61111:2009, or the ASTM D178 electrical safety standards. You may find electrical insulating mats Australia in another regional standard- the AS/NZS 2978:1995. This is similar to the IEC 61111:2009 compliance.
The IEC 61111:2009 and ASTM D178 safety standards have 1000V rubber matting varieties.
Here are the technical details of the 1000V rubber matting for IEC 61111 and ASTM D178 standards:
Product Name | Compliance Standard | Max Use Voltage (AC) | AC Proof Voltage | Withstand Voltage | Standard Dimension | Standard Thickness |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Duratuf IEC Mat Class 0 | IEC 61111:2009 (Class 0) | 1,000 V | 5,000 V | 10,000 V | 1 m x 10 m / 1 m x 2 m rolls | 3 mm |
Duratuf ASTM Mat Type I | ASTM D178 (Class 0) | 1,000 V | 5,000 V | 10,000 V | 914 mm x 9.14 m (3 ft x 30 ft) | 3.2 mm (1/8 inch) |
These mats are flame-resistant, ozone-proof, and available in oil-resistant versions. Most facilities in Australia now mandate this level of protection for compliance with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) and ISO standards.
4 Different Electrical Mat Types in Australia
Is a 1000V rubber matting only available in Australia? Not at all. You will get 4 other types of rubber mats for electrical safety, as well:
1. Switchboard Mats
Switchboard mats might seem similar to 1000V rubber matting but they vary in design and functionality. These mats are rated for use up to 36000 Volts or 36 kV. They are also known as corrugated rubber matting for electricity for their fine-ribbed design. ASTM D178 electrical mats are referred to as switchboard mats in the USA and North American regions.
Switchboard dielectric rubber mats are used underfoot to control current leakage from the machines. Some local specifications may allow lighter-duty mats for indoor applications where full IEC/ASTM compliance isn’t required. Hence, they are cheaper as well.
Check out the features of Duratuf EProtect Electrical Safety Mats- compliant and economical.
2. Dielectric Floor Mats
Dielectric rubber mats are a combination of style and comfort. Common applications of these mats include electrical workstations, test labs, and maintenance areas. Their standard compliance is IEC 61111:2009. The IEC 61111:2009 dielectric rubber mats can be used globally, not only in Australia.
These mats provide moderate to high insulation, but its distinctive factor is its ergonomic feature. Dielectric floor mats meant for fatigue reduction have a padded and even surface. When you stand on them, your steps stay intact, and you are well-balanced on these electrical insulating mats. All insulating mats provide electrical protection but not all of them have an anti-fatigue design.
3. Dual-Layer Safety Mats
Dual-layer safety mats match aesthetics with functionality. Electric safety is non-negotiable but in high alert zones, users should be extra cautious. Dual-layer rubber mats in electrical room have two different colors on the top and bottom. Hence, if the top layer wears off, the bottom color signals it’s time for replacement. Dual-layer safety mats are available in IEC 61111:2009 and ASTM D178 standards. These are ideal for industries with rigorous safety audit trails like aviation, utilities, and mining.
4. Electrical ESD Mats
Electrical ESD mats also provide electrical safety, but, not to the humans and to the machines. Yes, high voltage machines need protection too, from a sudden surge in energy. Their primary work is to protect the sensitive parts of the machines like circuit boards. ESD mats come in various sizes and are made of static-disruptive materials like vinyl or rubber with carbon layers embedded within them.
Australian electronics manufacturers and ISO-certified ESD-protected zones (EPA) widely adopt these mats to align with IEC 61340-5-1 standards.
Choosing the Right Electrical Mat for Your Application
Should you go buy 1000V rubber matting or anything else? When selecting a mat for your facility in Australia, consider the following:
Criteria | Recommended Mat Type |
---|---|
Static-sensitive electronics | ESD Mat (IEC 61340 compliant) |
Utility substations | IEC/ASTM 1000V+ Rubber Mat |
Operator comfort + safety | Dielectric Anti-Fatigue Mats |
General switchboard use | Switchboard Mat (AS/NZS compatible) |
High-voltage panel work | Duel Layer Safety Mats |
Final Thoughts
Insulation mats are a critical part of compliance and risk reduction. Moreover, the focus of Australian industries on workplace electrical safety has made them the bottom rock. Whether you’re upgrading a power station or an electronics lab, choosing the right electrical insulating mats Australia ensures compliance and confidence.
Looking to buy a certified rubber mat for electrical substation? Contact us to get expert recommendations based on your application, voltage class, and safety requirements.