When it comes to keeping electrical outlets protected in industrial and outdoor environments, while-in-use (WIU) covers play an essential role. These covers allow outlets to remain shielded from the elements and from accidental contact while remaining operational. But not all WIU covers are created equal. The material, design, and certification of the cover can significantly affect both safety and longevity.
Let’s explore why stainless steel WIU covers are becoming the go-to choice in demanding applications and why Robroy Stainless delivers an unmatched solution.
What Is a While-in-Use Cover?
A while-in-use cover, also called an "in-use" or “bubble” cover, is a protective enclosure that allows cords to remain plugged in while maintaining a weather-resistant seal. This is crucial for applications where temporary or permanent equipment needs consistent power without compromising safety.
OSHA, NEC, and UL all have strict requirements for outlet protection, especially in wet, damp, or dusty locations. The right WIU cover ensures compliance while minimizing downtime caused by exposure or damage.
Why Material Selection Matters: The Case for Stainless Steel
Many WIU covers are made from polycarbonate or aluminum. While these may suffice in light-duty applications, they can fall short in environments where exposure to chemicals, salt air, risk of physical damage or high temperatures is common.
316 stainless steel offers several distinct advantages:
- Corrosion Resistance: Ideal for wet and damp locations, coastal sites, or chemical-heavy facilities.
- Impact Durability: Resists cracking, chipping, or warping which are common issues with plastic covers.
- Longevity: Stainless steel maintains its integrity over time, reducing replacements and maintenance costs while retaining its clean, professional, aesthetic appearance.
For industries that demand safety, compliance, and cost-efficiency, material choice is more than preference, it's protection.
Application Scenarios: Where Stainless Shines
Stainless steel WIU covers are especially valuable in:
- Food and beverage processing
- Pharmaceutical and cleanroom facilities
- Wastewater treatment plants
- Outdoor electrical installations
- Marine and coastal sites
- Pulp and paper operations
In each case, the risk of water ingress, corrosion, or mechanical damage makes stainless steel not just ideal, but essential.
The Robroy Stainless Advantage
Robroy Stainless WIU Covers are built for environments where failure isn’t an option. They go beyond basic functionality to offer industry-leading protection and performance:
316 Stainless Steel Construction
Built to thrive in the most corrosive and demanding environments; indoors and out.
Certified and Compliant
- UL 514D for electrical safety
- UL 50E for Type 3R environmental suitability
- NEC "Extra Duty" certified—verified by third-party testing
Flexible Installation
Each cover includes interchangeable device plates, supporting duplex receptacles, switches, or GFCIs in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
Robroy’s product offering is available in both vertical and horizontal orientations to align with customer installation requirements. While vertical mounting is more common, horizontal installation is particularly useful for:
- Legacy upgrades, where horizontal orientation matches existing equipment layouts
- Tight enclosures or cabinets, where vertical clearance is limited
- Linear outlet installations, where conduit can run continuously to multiple boxes without vertical drops, saving labor, space, and cost
This horizontal flexibility enables smarter conduit routing and faster installs—especially in retrofit and OEM applications.
Secure Access, Full Protection
A lockable lid provides additional safety, while a bottom gasket allows cords to exit while shielding from splash and overspray.
Robroy Stainless covers are designed to meet the needs of contractors, end users, and specifiers who expect performance without compromise.
Final Thought: Don’t Compromise Where It Counts
Choosing the right WIU cover isn’t just a box to check, it’s a decision that impacts safety, uptime, and regulatory compliance. In environments where failure can cost more than just money, Robroy Stainless offers a solution that leads with innovation, integrity, and durability.
Explore the full Robroy Stainless while-in-use cover product line and discover how our WIU covers outperform expectations where it matters most.