Selection guide
Floor box vs in-ground power unit (GPU): which solution fits the project?
A floor box and an in-ground power unit both bring services to floor level, but they are specified for different conditions. The key decision is whether the installation is an interior floor-access point or a purpose-designed outdoor utility pit.
Decision matrix
| Selection point | Floor box | In-ground power unit (GPU) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary setting | Interior floors, workplaces, meeting rooms, hospitality and commercial fit-outs | Plazas, markets, events, public realm and specialist outdoor service areas |
| Installation | Recessed into raised, concrete or finished internal floor constructions | Recessed into paving or ground construction with coordinated depth and drainage requirements |
| Services | Selected power, data, AV and Type-45 module arrangements | Model-specific industrial power, data, audio, fibre or potable-water configurations |
| Project checks | Floor build-up, cut-out, finish, module plan and stated IP condition | Cover load class, excavation depth, paving infill, upstream supply and final panel layout |
Choose a floor box for internal power and data access
Floor boxes are typically used in offices, meeting rooms, hospitality interiors, showrooms and other finished internal spaces. The selection starts with the floor construction, required Type-45 modules or socket configuration, visible finish and stated protection condition.
An industrial floor box can provide 16A or 32A socket access in pedestrian project areas, but it should not be treated as a substitute for an outdoor utility pit without confirming drainage, loading and installation requirements.
Choose an in-ground power unit for outdoor utility infrastructure
Kent in-ground power units are recessed stainless-steel service points for plazas, markets, public realm, events and specialist outdoor applications. Depending on the model, they can be configured for industrial power, data, audio, fibre or water services.
The cover load class, available excavation depth, paving build-up, upstream supply and final service panel must be coordinated with the project before the model is selected.
Use the BOQ wording carefully
Some Saudi BOQs use GPU to describe an in-ground utility unit. This site uses GPU for a recessed utility box, not an aircraft ground power unit. Send the BOQ line, drawing and required socket ratings so the selected solution matches the intended application.
Questions project teams ask
Is an in-ground power unit the same as an aircraft GPU?
No. This comparison uses GPU for a recessed ground utility unit serving power, data or water in a project environment. Aircraft ground power units are a different equipment category.
Can a floor box be used outdoors?
Only where the selected product, stated protection condition, installation detail and loading requirements are suitable. Outdoor utility locations often need a purpose-designed in-ground unit instead.