Hubbell HBL303NM Marine Shore Power Inlet - 30A Polycard Non-Metallic
The Hubbell HBL303NM represents the pinnacle of marine shore power inlet design, combining UV-resistant non-metallic construction with weatherproof Centrex cover technology. This 30-ampere inlet provides reliable, secure connection for boat shore power systems while offering easy installation and transparent interior for quick visual inspection of connections.
Key Marine Benefits
- Weatherproof Design: Stylized white Centrex cover creates complete weather seal when closed
- UV Resistance: Non-metallic Polycard construction resists sun damage and discoloration
- Visual Inspection: Transparent interior allows quick verification of wiring integrity
- Complete Installation Kit: Includes mounting screws, gasket, and protective rear enclosure
- Standard Mounting: 2-3/8" center-to-center holes match existing mounting patterns
Technical Specifications
| Current Rating: | 30 Amperes |
| Voltage Rating: | 125V AC |
| Configuration: | 2-Pole, 3-Wire Grounding |
| NEMA Type: | L5-30P |
| Construction: | Non-Metallic Polycard |
| Cover Material: | White Centrex |
| Mounting Centers: | 2-3/8" (60.3mm) |
| Terminal Type: | Screw Terminal |
| Interior: | Transparent for Visual Inspection |
| UV Protection: | UV Resistant Materials |
| Installation: | Flanged Hull Inlet |
Marine Applications
- Powerboat and sailboat shore power connections
- Yacht and mega-yacht electrical systems
- Commercial vessel shore power installations
- Marina and harbor shore power upgrades
- Boat restoration and electrical system modernization
Advanced Design Features
Centrex Cover Technology: The stylized white Centrex cover provides complete weatherproofing when closed, protecting electrical connections from rain, spray, and moisture intrusion. The smooth, modern appearance complements contemporary boat styling while maintaining functionality.
Non-Metallic Advantages: Polycard construction eliminates corrosion concerns associated with metallic inlets while providing excellent dimensional stability and chemical resistance. The material won't react with marine chemicals, fuels, or cleaning compounds commonly used in boat maintenance.
Transparent Interior Design: The innovative transparent interior allows for quick visual inspection of wiring connections without disassembly. This feature significantly reduces troubleshooting time and enables preventive maintenance verification.
Installation Excellence
Complete Hardware Package: Every HBL303NM includes all necessary installation components - mounting screws, sealing gasket, and protective rear enclosure with strain relief. This comprehensive kit ensures proper installation and long-term reliability.
Standard Mounting Pattern: The 2-3/8" center-to-center mounting holes match existing industry-standard patterns, making upgrades and replacements straightforward without hull modification.
Easy-Wire Terminations: Interior design facilitates easy wire termination and provides generous space for proper conductor routing, reducing installation time and ensuring code-compliant connections.
UV Protection and Longevity
UV degradation is a primary concern for marine electrical components exposed to intense sunlight. The HBL303NM's UV-resistant materials maintain both structural integrity and appearance over years of sun exposure, preventing the brittleness and discoloration that affect lesser materials.
The white Centrex cover not only provides weather protection but also reflects heat and UV radiation, contributing to the longevity of both the inlet and internal wiring components.
ABYC Compliance and Safety
The HBL303NM supports ABYC E-11 compliant shore power installations when properly integrated with appropriate overcurrent protection and grounding systems. The twist-lock design provides positive retention required by marine safety standards.
The transparent interior facilitates inspection compliance, allowing surveyors and marine electricians to verify proper installation and connection integrity without disassembly.
Maintenance and Service
Preventive Maintenance: The transparent interior enables regular visual inspection of connections for signs of overheating, corrosion, or loosening. Regular inspection can prevent failures and ensure continued safe operation.
Weather Seal Maintenance: Periodically inspect and clean the gasket to ensure proper sealing. The non-metallic construction won't corrode, but maintaining the gasket integrity is essential for weather protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the advantages of non-metallic construction over metal inlets?
A: Non-metallic construction eliminates galvanic corrosion concerns, provides excellent chemical resistance, and won't react with hull materials. It's also lighter weight and immune to electrolysis issues.
Q: How does the Centrex cover provide weatherproofing?
A: The Centrex cover creates a complete weather seal when closed, with the included gasket providing primary sealing. The cover design sheds water and protects against spray and moisture intrusion.
Q: Can I see the wiring connections without removing the inlet?
A: Yes, the transparent interior design allows visual inspection of all wiring connections and terminations without disassembly, making troubleshooting and maintenance more efficient.
Q: Does this inlet fit standard mounting holes?
A: Yes, the 2-3/8" center-to-center mounting pattern matches industry standards, making it suitable for upgrades and replacements without hull modification.
Q: What's included with the inlet purchase?
A: The complete kit includes the inlet, mounting screws, sealing gasket, and protective rear enclosure with strain relief - everything needed for proper installation.
Q: How does UV resistance benefit marine installations?
A: UV-resistant materials prevent degradation, brittleness, and discoloration from sun exposure, maintaining both functionality and appearance over years of outdoor marine use.
Q: Can this inlet handle continuous 30-amp loads?
A: Yes, when properly installed with appropriate wiring and circuit protection, the HBL303NM can safely handle continuous 30-amp loads at 125V AC as designed.
Q: Is professional installation required?
A: Professional installation by qualified marine electricians is recommended to ensure proper hole cutting, sealing, wiring, and compliance with ABYC standards and local electrical codes.