Do I need to use a metal box for an outlet? Answered
I'm making a concrete art piece and want to insert an electrical outlet inside it. Is it okay if I embed the outlet in the concrete or is there a reason I need to use the metal outlet box like is used in the wall?
here's another idea. I'm not saying it's a good idea, necessarily. Cast a waterproof extension cord into the piece. Again, I ask: how much power are you drawing
The metal boxes allow you conveniently remove the socket plate from the wall.
This makes it easier to connect the wires, and also makes it possible to renew wires without having to dig holes in the wall. For the same reason, you should have your wires in conduits (pipes, tubes) or other open spaces inside the wall, so that they can be renewed without having to destroy the wall.
So if I'm creating a concrete art piece with an electrical outlet embedded in it, there is not a safety reason why I couldn't just make a much smaller, fitted metal box around my outlet to keep the concrete out when it's poured?
You will have to leave the concrete to cure for several days at least, to make sure all the water in the mix has reacted before you put any current through the circuitry, in case of short-circuit between exposed contacts.
Discussions
2 years ago
here's another idea. I'm not saying it's a good idea, necessarily. Cast a waterproof extension cord into the piece. Again, I ask: how much power are you drawing
2 years ago
Metal is best for short protection.
There are receptacle boxes made for imbedding in concrete both plastic and steel.
Ether way use a GFCI receptacle.
Reply 2 years ago
if she modifies a box to be narrower, a metal box could short out the energized screws on the side of the outlet.
2 years ago
how much power are you pulling? The main caution may be accumulated heat.
2 years ago
there are also plastic outlet boxes. If you must modify it, go with plastic. Metal can short out your outlet.
2 years ago
what is the advantage of omitting the box?
Reply 2 years ago
My art piece is narrower than the box so it would distort the shape.
2 years ago
The metal boxes allow you conveniently remove the socket plate from the wall.
This makes it easier to connect the wires, and also makes it possible to renew wires without having to dig holes in the wall. For the same reason, you should have your wires in conduits (pipes, tubes) or other open spaces inside the wall, so that they can be renewed without having to destroy the wall.
Reply 2 years ago
So if I'm creating a concrete art piece with an electrical outlet embedded in it, there is not a safety reason why I couldn't just make a much smaller, fitted metal box around my outlet to keep the concrete out when it's poured?
Reply 2 years ago
You will have to leave the concrete to cure for several days at least, to make sure all the water in the mix has reacted before you put any current through the circuitry, in case of short-circuit between exposed contacts.