National Light Sources | 18 Pole Distribution Board IP40 | Surface Mount
The NLS 30256 is an 18-pole surface-mount distribution board rated IP40, designed to accommodate most leading brands of circuit protection devices in Australian domestic and commercial installations. The 30256 includes a full complement of din rail, earth bar, neutral links, and circuit identification labels, ready for immediate installation. It complies with IEC60439-3 standards and is constructed from fire-resistant polycarbonate.
Site electricians face real constraints when planning board installations: available wall space, the need for internal working room, and the cost of over-specifying a board for the job. The NLS 30256 solves this through a compact footprint (364mm x 222mm x 100mm) that doesn't sacrifice generous internal mounting space. Tradies value the pre-installed earth bar and neutral links that cut wiring-in time on the jobsite. The board suits sheds, offices, relocatable homes, site offices, and residential installations where a straightforward enclosure at a fair price is the right choice.
Electricians specify the NLS 30256 because it balances cost with functionality: a competitive price point that holds up across job estimates, one-piece construction with no assembly required, and a din rail layout that accepts all major circuit protection brands. The board arrives complete with identification labels and pole fillers, reducing preparation time before handoff. For residential work, renovations, and light commercial applications, the 30256 delivers solid value without over-engineering.
Features
- 18-pole capacity — accommodates up to 18 single-pole or 9 double-pole circuit breakers, providing flexibility for residential and light commercial distribution requirements.
- IP40 protection rating — weatherproof enough for internal installations and tool rooms, not suitable for outdoor or splash-exposed locations.
- Surface-mount installation — bolts directly to internal walls with standard fixings, no recessing or wall cutting required.
- Smoke finish transparent door — allows visual inspection of circuit breaker positions and status without opening the enclosure.
- Complete earth and neutral bars — pre-installed double-row copper link bars and earth bar reduce jobsite wiring time and assembly work.
- Din rail system — accepts circuit breakers and accessories from Clipsal, Hager, Schneider, and other major Australian brands without modification.
- Pole fillers supplied — blank filler plates keep unused pole spaces neat and prevent accidental contact with live terminals.
- Circuit identification labels — printed labels and label space provided for quick identification of each circuit during testing and maintenance.
- Fire-resistant polycarbonate body — ABS and UV-resistant materials limit flame spread and maintain durability in high-light environments.
- One-piece assembly — arrives fully assembled with no internal construction needed, shortening preparation time before mounting.
- 100A rated capacity — electric rating up to 100A at 250/415V, 50/60Hz, with on-load current of 100A for single-phase or 63A for three-phase distribution.
- Not weatherproof — IP40 rating means the NLS 30256 is unsuitable for outdoor installations, exposed wet areas, or damp locations; interior use only.
Where to use
- Residential new builds — the 18-pole 30256 handles standard domestic service boards in new houses and extensions where full distribution is needed at a single point.
- Renovation and switchboard upgrades — surface mounting eliminates need for wall chasing; perfect for retrofit work in older homes adding extra circuits or replacing undersized boards.
- Relocatable homes and transportable buildings — compact size and lightweight polycarbonate construction suit temporary and mobile installations.
- Site offices and site sheds — the NLS 30256 is commonly specified for job-site electrical installations, workshops, and portable site facilities.
- Light commercial and retail — 18 poles and 100A capacity handle small shop fit-outs, office spaces, and service vehicles with standard supply requirements.
- Rental and holiday properties — straightforward design and easy access to circuit identification support turnover maintenance and emergency fault-finding.
The NLS 30256 is not suitable for outdoor installations, damp exposed locations, or areas subject to splash, rain, or weathering. This is an interior distribution board only. Do not install in wet areas, kitchens with overhead spray, laundries, or external walls.
Verified Sparky Direct customer reviews: NLS 30256 | 18 Pole Surface Mount Switch Board IP40 (30256)
"Fits the bill." — Matt
"Neat & easy to use." — Bob
"Easy to work on, space is adequate." — Falcon