Okay, this is a tricky one, and I understand the challenge of finding a deep meter enclosure for a 320A service intended for near-flush mounting in stucco. Here's a breakdown of the situation, some potential options, and considerations

Understanding the Challenge
Depth Requirement

7" is a significant depth requirement for a meter enclosure, especially when trying to maintain a semi-flush appearance. Standard meter cans aren't designed for this kind of recess.

Conduit Entry

That 3" conduit is the key driver of the depth. The bend radius and termination fitting require considerable space.

Stucco Thickness

Stucco plus sheathing adds significant depth, and this needs to be accounted for in your planning.

320A Service

A 320A service typically means a meter socket rated for 400A continuous, and these are physically larger than smaller service ratings.

Flush vs. Semi-Flush

Flush would be almost impossible with that depth. Semi-flush is more realistic, but even then, you'll likely have some protrusion.

Potential Solutions and Considerations

Here's a tiered approach, starting with what's most likely to work and moving to more customized or less desirable options:1. Custom Enclosure/Fabrication (Most Likely Solution) Idea

The most likely viable solution is to work with a local metal fabrication shop. They can build a custom meter box with the necessary depth and dimensions.

Key Specs to Provide the Fabricator



Meter Socket Specifications

Tell them the exact meter socket you'll be using (manufacturer and model number). This is crucial for ensuring proper fit.

Conduit Entry Location and Size

Specify the exact location and size of the conduit knockout(s). Tell them you'll be using a 3" conduit.

Depth Requirement

Clearly state the 7" minimum depth requirement (or even a little more to be safe).

Stucco Finish

Explain that it will be recessed and the face will be in the same plain as the stucco finish.

NEMA Rating

Specify the desired NEMA rating (e.g., NEMA 3R for outdoor use).

Material

Specify the material (e.g., galvanized steel, aluminum). Aluminum is generally easier to work with, but galvanized steel can be more durable in some environments.

Mounting Method

Detail how you want the enclosure to be mounted (e.g., mounting flanges, direct attachment to studs).

Door/Cover

Include a hinged door with a latch or a removable cover.

Benefits



Exact Fit

You get precisely what you need.

Customization

You can tailor the enclosure to the specific aesthetic requirements of the project.

Drawbacks



Cost

Custom fabrication will be more expensive than an off-the-shelf solution.

Lead Time

It will take time to design, fabricate, and finish the enclosure.2.

Combination of Standard Enclosure and Recessed Mounting



Idea

Find a standard 400A meter socket enclosure that is as deep as you can find (even if it's not quite 7"). Then, recess it into the wall as much as possible. You might still have some protrusion, but less than a fully surface-mounted enclosure.

Steps



Research

Thoroughly research 400A meter socket enclosures from manufacturers like Milbank, Eaton, Siemens, GE, and Schneider Electric. Look for the depth dimension in the product specifications.

Recessing

Frame out the wall cavity to accommodate the enclosure.

Stucco Work

Have the stucco contractor carefully apply stucco around the enclosure, feathering it in to create a smooth, semi-flush transition.

Challenges



Finding a Deep Enough Enclosure

You may not find a standard enclosure that's deep enough to fully hide the conduit.

Coordination

Requires careful coordination between the electrician, framing contractor, and stucco contractor.

Still Some Protrusion

You'll likely still have some of the enclosure protruding from the wall.3.

Meter Socket With Integrated Gutters (Potentially, but Unlikely to Meet Depth) Idea

Some meter sockets come with integrated wire gutters (extra space for making connections). These might be deeper than standard meter sockets, but are still unlikely to be anywhere near the 7 inches.

Challenge

These are still unlikely to be deep enough, and often the gutter space is intended for internal connections, not accommodating a deep conduit entry.4.

Separate Meter Socket and Disconnects (Least Desirable)



Idea

As you mentioned, you could use a shallower standard meter socket and then run the conductors to two side-by-side 200A disconnects (or a single 400A disconnect) mounted adjacent to the meter.

Drawbacks



More Surface Area

Requires more wall space.

More Cost

Additional disconnects add to the cost.

Less Aesthetically Pleasing

Less clean look than a semi-flush integrated solution.

Code Compliance

Check local codes for specific requirements regarding disconnect placement and accessibility.

Important Considerations and Best Practices Local Codes and Utility Requirements

Before you do anything, check with your local electrical inspector and the utility company. They may have very specific requirements for meter socket placement, height, and enclosure types. They may also have restrictions on custom enclosures.

NEC Compliance

Ensure that all work complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC), especially regarding working clearances, conductor sizing, and grounding.

Conduit Bending

Consider using a long-radius bend on the 3" conduit to minimize the space required for the bend.

Weatherproofing

Ensure that the enclosure is properly weatherproofed, especially if it's exposed to the elements.*

Accessibility

The meter must be accessible for reading and maintenance by the utility company.

Recommendation

Start by contacting a few local metal fabrication shops. Explain your requirements and get quotes. This will give you the best chance of getting a solution that meets your needs and the project's aesthetic goals. While you are waiting for the metal fabricators to get back to you, look up some 400amp meter boxes and check their depths to see how close you can get without fabrication.Let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck with your project! Flag for review