An industrial electrical enclosure protects sensitive electrical and electronic equipment from dust, water, and even high-pressure hose-downs. There are a variety of factors that decide whether an enclosure is effective and efficient or not. Quality IP enclosures are essential when it comes to safety and reliability. The following guide will help you make the best choice for your project.
Article Breakdown
Choosing a Size
The right size is significant for safety and gives the panel an organized look. Luckily, there are no standard sizes for IP enclosures, meaning you can buy according to your requirements. You can go for pre-made ones if it’s the proper size, or you can order a customized built. Measure the installation area and also consider the length of fixtures before settling on a type and design
Choosing a Material
Two types of material can be used in IP enclosures;
- Metals: It is a good conductor of heat and electricity and is durable. Steel is a more commonly used alloy; however, stainless steel is a better choice to avoid corrosion and other such issues. Aluminum is also a good choice of material due to its high conductivity and resistance to weather conditions.
- Polymers: They are also a great choice but remember, each polymer type has its pros and cons. For example, ABS is economical and splendid at resisting chemical reactions; however, it may break under severe conditions. Similarly, polycarbonates are excellent at moulding and offer great strength but are ineffective against rusting and other chemical reactions.
Choosing the material for an IP enclosure depends on the weather and other environmental factors. You can find enclosures that are ideal for your surroundings and can handle severe conditions without breaking or rusting. Additionally, IP enclosures come with ratings and suitability for specific conditions; looking at them can also help you make the right choice.
Ensuring Ventilation
Many industrial device components release a significant amount of heat which can be detrimental to panels and wiring. This is why your IP enclosure should have a proper ventilation system. The ventilation also prevents excessive moisturizer, which eventually results in rusting.
Your devices will need active ventilation inside their enclosures if they generate more heat than the recommended levels. Passive ventilation systems like enclosure cutouts may be sufficient for airtight seals in areas like walk-in freezers where ambient temperatures are low.
Installation
IP installation depends on your accessibility. For example, in homes, you can mount it on a wall to keep the children away. However, in industrial units, you must consider the ease of use and safety protocols before deciding the best place for its installation.
Buying an IP enclosure is not tricky if you know your requirements. However, people jump straight into buying one without considering the above factors. As a result, they replace or repair it after some time which incurs additional costs making the equipment more expensive than it should be. Therefore, always choose an IP enclosure based on the above guide to avoid future inconveniences.