electrical gutter box
The following is a professional analysis of **"Electrical Gutter Box" (Electrical Raceway Box/Cable Collection Box)**, combining electrical
installation specifications with industrial application scenarios:
I. Definition and Core Functions
The **Electrical Gutter Box** is an electrical device used for **protecting and organizing electrical wires and cables** and **providing a
safe connection space**. Its core functions include:
1. **Cable Protection**: Isolate from the external environment (water, dust, corrosion), and meet the **protection rating** (such as IP65/IP67);
2. **Wiring Management**: Integrate multiple cables to avoid crossing and confusion, and support **cable branching and transfer**;
3. **Safety Protection**: Provide **mechanical strength** (such as metal materials) and **grounding terminals** to prevent the risk of
electric shock.
II. Classification and Typical Applications
1. Classification by Material
| Type | Features | Applicable Scenarios |
| Metal Electrical Gutter Box | Cold-rolled steel (painted)/304 stainless steel | Outdoor, highly corrosive environments (IP66+) |
| Plastic Electrical Gutter Box | ABS/PC materials, lightweight, transparent cover (optional) | Indoor low-voltage electrical systems, visual wiring |
| Composite Material | Metal frame + plastic shell, taking into account both strength and insulation | Industrial control equipment |
2. Classification by Function
| Type Type | Features | Examples |
| Wiring Type | With built-in terminal blocks, supporting cable termination | Lighting circuits, sensor cable collection |
| Pass-through Type | Without fixed terminals, only providing space for cable threading | Intermediate transition in long-distance wiring |
| Type with Accessories | Integrated with mounting plates, cable glands, and locks | Power access for outdoor equipment |
III. Key Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Common Specifications | Standard Basis |
| Protection Rating | IP54 (Indoor) ~ IP67 (Short-term immersion underwater) | IEC 60529 |
| Size | Small specification: 100×80×50mm; Large specification: 600×400×200mm | Customization is the main approach |
| Flame Retardant Rating | UL 94 V-0 (Plastic material) | UL 94 |
| Installation Method | Wall-mounted, embedded, floor-standing brackets | GB 50303-2015 |
IV. Installation Specifications and Key Points
1. Location Selection
- **Height**: 1.5~2.0 meters from the ground (for easy operation), avoiding high-temperature and humid areas;
- **Spacing**: The spacing of supports in straight sections is **≤2m**, and at bends is **≤0.5m** (GB 50303);
- **Identification**: The box body should be marked with **“ELECTRICAL”** and the circuit number (GB 7251.3).
2. Wiring Requirements
- **Wire Filling Rate**: ≤40% of the cross-sectional area (to avoid poor heat dissipation);
- **Cable Types**: Support **power cables (such as YJV)** and **control cables (such as KVV)**;
- **Grounding**: The metal box body needs to be connected to the **PE busbar**, and the grounding resistance ≤ 4Ω (GB 50169).
3. Waterproof Sealing
- Outdoor boxes need to be equipped with **silicone sealing rings** + **rain eaves**;
- The cable inlets and outlets should be sealed with **NPT threaded cable glands** (such as M20×1.5 specification).
V. Key Technical Points for Purchase
1. **Matching of Protection Ratings**:
- Select **IP66/IP67** for outdoor use, and **IP54** for indoor humid environments;
- Example: Use **316 stainless steel + IP67** (anti-salt spray) in coastal areas.
2. **Structural Design**:
- With a **removable inner panel** for convenient wiring;
- Support **knockouts in multiple directions** to adapt to different cable inlet directions.
3. **Load Capacity**:
- The load-bearing capacity of wall-mounted boxes is ≥50kg (the strength of the installation holes needs to be confirmed);
- The thickness of the metal box body is ≥1.5mm (cold-rolled steel) or ≥2.0mm (stainless steel).
VI. Comparison of Typical Products
| Brand | Model | Material | Size (mm) | Protection Rating | Special Features |
| Hoffman | ASE12x12x4 | Steel | 305×305×102 | IP54 | Economical type, with knockouts |
| VEVOR | 16x16x8 | Cold-rolled steel | 406×406×203 | IP65 | Integrated with heat dissipation holes, can be equipped with locks |
| QILI | CC-161271 | ABS Plastic | 410×310×180 | IP67 | Transparent cover, with a built-in mounting plate |
VII. Differences from Electric Disconnect Box
| Characteristic | Electrical Gutter Box | Electric Disconnect Box |
| Core Function | Cable protection and management | Power cut-off and protection (including switchgear) |
| Internal Components | Terminal blocks, grounding busbars | Circuit breakers, isolating switches |
| Interrupting Capacity | None | Interrupting current needs to be marked (such as 10kA) |
| Standard | IEC 62208 (Junction Box) | IEC 60947-3 (Switchgear) |
Conclusion
The core value of the Electrical Gutter Box lies in **standardized wiring** and **environmental protection**, which is suitable for
scenarios such as **lighting, security, and industrial control**. When purchasing, key attention should be paid to the **protection
rating**, **corrosion resistance of materials**, and **installation convenience**. For outdoor scenarios, it is recommended to select
products made of **metal materials + high protection ratings**, and strictly follow the grounding and sealing specifications.
