A Useful Guide When Selecting Electrical Enclosures

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In order to protect electrical components and control boxes, you need the right electrical enclosures. There are many to choose from today, but to narrow down your list of choices, keep this guide in mind. It will facilitate the search process and ensure you choose the right enclosure, the first time. 

NEMA Rating 

You can easily narrow down your list of enclosures to just a few by first assessing NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) rating. These ratings are used to categorize electrical enclosures based on specific purposes and standards.

The three NEMA ratings you can select from include NEMA 12, NEMA 4X, and NEMA 4. Enclosures with a NEMA 12 rating are typically designed to resist damage from falling dirt, light fluids and dust circulating the air. NEMA 4 enclosures operate the same way, only they provide protection against windblown dust and pressurized water. Finally, NEMA 4X enclosures offer even more protection against things like detrimental corrosion.

Material 

Electrical enclosures can vary a lot in terms of the materials they're made out of. Fiberglass electrical enclosures are one of the most popular options, and for good reason. It's extremely durable and is highly resistant to chemicals. It's also a cost-effective material that is fairly easy to maintain over the years.

If you're looking for added durability, stainless steel electrical enclosures may be a great fit. They cost more than most of the other options, but they are virtually indestructible and will not fall victim to rust caused by wet, humid environments. Carbon steel is another durable enclosure material that is simpler to maintain compared to stainless steel.

Security Level 

To prevent just anyone from gaining access to your electrical components, you need to take your time considering the security level of your electrical enclosure. Security levels can vary drastically from enclosure to enclosure.

Some of the most common latching mechanisms available include screw cover, key locking, link locks, digital locks, and padlocks. Key locking mechanisms are one of the most popular choices, and they let you designate what employees at your facility have access to these enclosures. Padlocks are also great because they are durable, feature key-free options, and are generally weatherproof.

There are so many great electrical enclosure choices that your company has access to today. To find one that works for your particular needs and budget, consider the right specs like material and purpose. Your enclosures will then do their job effectively for years without any complications arising.  


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