Navigating the world of electrical enclosures can be overwhelming. With a wide variety of sizes, materials, and features available, choosing the right one for your project can be a challenge.
At iLECSYS we understand how important it is to get it right. That's why we offer not only a comprehensive range of enclosures, but also the expert guidance to help you choose the best one for your application. Our checklist below is designed to simplify the selection process - and our experienced team are ready to assist you at any stage.
Understanding the Role of Electrical Enclosures
Electrical enclosures protect sensitive electrical components from environmental hazards while ensuring user safety. They act as barriers against dust, moisture, temperature changes, and physical impact. Selecting the right enclosure reduces the risk of equipment failure, fire, and electrical shock - while also keeping systems organised and visually clean.
Step 1: Sizing Up Your Needs
Start by determining the appropriate size for your enclosure. Consider these two key factors:
- Available Space: Measure the installation area to ensure the enclosure fits comfortably. Allow extra clearance for maintenance and airflow.
- Internal Component Needs: Assess the size and number components you plan to house. Leave room for wiring, ventilation, and future expansion.
While smaller enclosures are cost-effective, they can make installation difficult and increase the risk of overheating. A slightly larger or modular enclosure offers better accessibility and flexibility for future upgrades.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Material
The environment where the enclosure will be installed plays a key role in enclosure material selection. Here's a quick guide of the most common enclosure materials and their ideal applications:
- Polycarbonate: UV-resistant and highly impact-resistant. Lightweight, easy to modify, and boasts a high-gloss finish, ideal for outdoor use.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Cost-effective and impact-resistant. ABS enclosures are lightweight and come in a variety of colours. However, they are not UV stabilised & offer lower resistance to extreme conditions compared to other materials.
- GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester): A cost-effective, versatile material offering excellent impact strength, corrosion resistance, and electrical insulation. Lightweight and virtually maintenance-free, GRP performs well in harsh environments and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it a versatile choice for indoor/outdoor and wastewater treatment applications. Aluminium's natural RF shielding blocks electromagnetic interference, so it is not recommended for devices with internal antennas.
- Mild Steel: Used for a variety of general applications, providing strong impact resistance. More suited for indoor applications or environments with low chances of corrosion.
- Stainless Steel: A corrosion and scratch-resistant steel alloy that is stronger than mild steel and available in 304L and 316L. Ideal for use in environments requiring higher levels of hygiene, such as food manufacturing.