16 module concealed GI metal box for modular switches — sits flush in the wall, with knock-outs, capped screw lugs and an earth screw.
- Holds up to 16 modules, laid out as 2 rows of 8 modules.
- Galvanised (GI) steel — zinc-coated to resist rust in damp, freshly plastered walls.
- Rigid steel body keeps its shape while the wall is plastered, so the plate sits straight.
- Pre-punched knock-outs on the sides, top, bottom and back for PVC conduit (typically 20 or 25 mm).
- Screw lugs fitted with protective caps that keep plaster out of the threads.
- Earth screw inside the box for the protective-earth wire.
- Pairs with a 16 module cover plate and frame, such as our Bingo plate with base.
A concealed box — also called a flush box, modular box, GI box or back box — is fixed inside the wall before plastering. Your modular switches, sockets and fan regulators mount on it, and the cover plate finishes the switchboard flush with the wall.
This 16 module size is laid out as 2 rows of 8 modules. It is the usual choice for large halls, shops, showrooms and office cabins.
What fits in a 16 module box
- Eight switches, two fan regulators and two 2-module sockets.
- Ten switches, a fan regulator and two 2-module sockets.
Module widths vary a little between switch ranges (some 16A sockets take 3 modules), so count the modules of the switches you plan to use before choosing the size, and leave a module or two spare for later.
Where to use it
- New homes, flats and villas wired in concealed PVC conduit.
- Offices, shops, clinics, hotels, schools and other commercial interiors.
- Renovation work where walls are chased for new switch and socket points.
How to install
- Chase the wall so the front edge of the box will sit flush with the finished plaster.
- Open only the knock-outs you need and bring the conduit in with a bush or coupler.
- Set the box level in mortar and leave the lug caps on until plastering is finished.
- Connect the earth wire to the earth screw, wire the modules and screw the plate frame to the lugs.
Electrical work should be done by a licensed electrician with the supply switched off.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a 16 module concealed box used for?
- It holds up to 16 modules of modular switches and sockets inside the wall, behind a 16 module cover plate — for example eight switches, two fan regulators and two 2-module sockets.
- What does "module" mean for switch boxes?
- A module is the standard width of one modular switch. A one-way switch uses one module; most 6A sockets and fan regulators use two.
- GI metal box or PVC box — which is better?
- A GI box is stiffer, does not deform when the wall is plastered, handles heat better and can be earthed with its earth screw. PVC boxes are lighter and cheaper. For long-lasting concealed wiring, most electricians prefer GI.
- Will any brand of switch plate fit this box?
- Pick a plate with the same module count. Screw-hole spacing can differ between switch ranges, so a plate from a matching range — such as our Bingo 16 module plate with base — fits best.
- When should a concealed box be fixed?
- After the conduit is laid and before plastering, so its front edge ends up flush with the finished wall.
- At what height is a switch box fixed?
- Commonly with the bottom of the box about 1.25 m above the finished floor (the CPWD guideline for switchboards), unless your design says otherwise.
Buy 16 module concealed metal boxes online from Electric Market, Chennai. For site, contractor or bulk quantities, contact us for a quote.