| Electric Operation |
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Almost all types of blinds and shutters can be electrically operated. For venetian blinds, the motors are located within the headrail section; for roller blinds and smaller shutters, the motors are tubular and fit within the roller; on vertical blinds, the motor is mounted on the back of the track. Non-retractable rooflight blinds have the motors mounted on one of the racks above the slats. For larger shutters, the motor is mounted at the end of the roller and drives to the roller through gears. This type of externally fitted motor, which is usually 3-phase, is also used for folding and commercial up-and-over doors. Small 12v motors are also available for small blinds. As they are normally battery operated, a qualified electrician is not required for the wiring. Generally, installers and fitters of blinds and shutters will not undertake mains wiring as part of their contract, as this must be carried out by a qualified electrician. Normally this work is done by the site electrician or an electrician familiar with the client’s building. Thus electrical items are usually supplied only. The blind fitter is responsible for final testing and commissioning and setting the motor operating limits. Usually the blinds are installed and tested from an independent power source before handing over to the contractor. Motors are normally supplied with a 1 metre length of flex (or flying lead) so it is necessary for a junction box or plug connection to be located within 1 metre of the end of the blind. Where more than one blind operates from a single switch, relays must be used and they can also serve as junction boxes. Most motors are single phase using normal 3 core mains supply cable to the switch, but the cable from the switch to the motor is 4 core. There are 2 wires for supply (one for raise and one for lower) a neutral and an earth. The load requirement is normally not more than an amp for each motor.
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