submersible electrical box
The following is a professional analysis of the **Submersible Electrical Box**, combined with the technical standards and application scenarios
of **Steel City** and mainstream products in the industry:
I. Core Definitions and Standards
The **Submersible Electrical Box** refers to an electrical enclosure that can be submerged in water for a long time (not just splash-proof
or for short-term immersion). It needs to meet the **IP68 protection rating** (International Standard IEC 60529), and in some scenarios,
it also needs to comply with **NEMA 6P** (US standard) or **ATEX/IECEx explosion-proof certification** (such as for underwater motor
control).
II. Related Products and Technologies of Steel City
1. Main Submersible Models
| Series | Material | Protection Rating | Certifications | Typical Applications |
| Iberville Pro | 316 Stainless Steel/FRP | IP68 | NEMA 6P, UL 508A | Underwater pump control, fountain power distribution |
| Marinestar | Reinforced PVC | IP68 | ABYC E-11 (Marine Standard) | Yacht decks, dock equipment |
2. Key Technical Designs
- **Triple Sealing System**:
- **O-ring Sealing**: A silicone O-ring is used between the box cover and the box body (with a temperature resistance range
of -40°C to 120°C).
- **Epoxy Resin Potting**: The cable entry is filled with epoxy resin to prevent water penetration (such as the **Iberville Pro-Series**).
- **Pressure Balance Valve**: An automatic exhaust valve can be optionally equipped to avoid sealing failure caused by the pressure
difference between the inside and outside.
- **Corrosion-resistant Materials**:
- In a seawater environment: **316 Stainless Steel** (containing molybdenum, resistant to chloride ion corrosion) or **FRP
(Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic)**.
- In a freshwater environment: **201 Stainless Steel** or **Reinforced PVC** (lower cost).
III. Comparison of Mainstream Products in the Industry
| Brand | Model | Maximum Submersible Depth | Cable Interface | Additional Functions |
| Steel City | Iberville Pro | 10 meters (continuous) | 4-16 hole PG threaded connector | Built-in grounding terminal, explosion-proof version optional |
| Hubbell | HBL-6800 | 5 meters | Waterproof quick-connect connector | Transparent observation window |
| Crouse-Hinds | CDQ Series | 15 meters | Armored cable gland | ATEX/IECEx explosion-proof certification |
1. **Installation Methods**
- **Fixed Type**: Fixed to the pool wall or the bottom of the well through a stainless steel bracket. It is necessary to reserve a
**lifting space of 5-10 cm** to avoid blockage by silt.
- **Mobile Type**: Connected with a **submersible cable** (such as H07RN-F 7G1.5), and a **waterproof quick connector**
is required.
2. **Key Parameters**
- **Operating Temperature**: -20°C to 60°C (a high-temperature model needs to be customized if it exceeds this range).
- **Cable Diameter**: Match the specification of the gland (for example, PG16 corresponds to a cable with a diameter of 8-12 mm).
3. **Compliance Verification**
- In North America: UL 50 (Enclosure) + UL 508A (Internal Components).
- In Europe: EN 60529 (IP68) + EN 60079-0 (Explosion-proof).
V. Typical Application Scenarios
1. **Swimming Pools/Fountains**: Control underwater lights and circulation pumps (a **Residual Current Device (RCD)** is required).
2. **Sewage Treatment**: Underwater sensors, distribution cabinets for submersible motors (resistant to hydrogen sulfide
corrosion is required).
3. **Marine Engineering**: Monitoring equipment on offshore platforms, charging stations for underwater robots.
4. **Aquaculture**: Pond aerators, power boxes for water quality monitoring systems.
VI. Purchase Suggestions
1. **Selection According to Water Depth**:
- ≤ 5 meters: **PVC material + IP68** can be selected (such as Marinestar).
- 5-20 meters: **316 Stainless Steel + Epoxy Resin Potting** (such as Iberville Pro).
- > 20 meters: A **pressure-bearing enclosure** needs to be customized (refer to the ASME BPVC Pressure Vessel Standard).
2. **Additional Functions**:
- If it contains electronic components: Select a model with **heat dissipation fins** (such as Crouse-Hinds CDQ).
- If it needs to be opened and closed frequently: Select a **quick-lock box cover** (such as Hubbell HBL-6800).
VII. Conclusion
The core of the submersible electrical box lies in its **sealing performance** and **material corrosion resistance**. The **Iberville
Pro** series of Steel City, with its stainless steel material and triple sealing design, is suitable for most underwater scenarios; for
extreme environments (such as deep sea, explosion-proof), professional brands like **Crouse-Hinds** need to be considered.
During installation, the cable sealing process should be strictly followed, and the aging condition of the O-ring should be
checked regularly (it is recommended to replace it every 2 years).
