Choosing the Right Metal for Your Custom Enclosure

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Rdekono.

The test labs in your organization are bound to be filled with custom enclosures. Whether you're building the lab from the ground up or reworking one to better suit your next project, you'll need plenty of enclosures to populate your control/test systems needed to analyze your work. One of the first steps in the designing process is choosing the right metal for your custom enclosure.

In this blog post, we will examine some factors to consider when deciding which metal is the best choice for your project. Following that, we&#;ll review each of our metal options in detail so that you can make an informed choice when starting your next design.

A variety of factors will come into play when deciding which material is right for your unique design:

Environmental Conditions

If you&#;ll be using your custom enclosure for testing outdoors, you&#;ll want to choose an ultra-durable, corrosion-resistant metal, along with the proper finishes.

One of the biggest factors to think about when choosing the right metal for your custom enclosure is corrosion resistance. Metals will corrode at different rates when exposed to heat, UV light, harsh chemicals, or moisture.

Aesthetics

Of course, for any enclosure you design, particularly in the prototyping stage, function should always trump form. However, having an aesthetically appealing and professional-looking prototype could be the difference-maker when seeking approval and buzz from your colleagues, stakeholders, and prospective clients.

Each of our metal options offers their own unique strengths when it comes to aesthetics, to help you along further, we offer a wide variety of custom finishing options too. Most metals will be visually in-discriminable if the same finish (particularly powdercoat) is applied. The right combination for your unique project can truly bring your design to the next level visually.

Weight

Weight can also be a crucial factor in determining the most suitable material for your custom enclosure. As an example, when building your test lab you'll often have your custom enclosures stacked on a rack, one on top of the other. If the enclosures are too heavy, it could cause some serious chaos and unwanted damages.

So, the weight of your enclosure could end up being a very important consideration, especially when factoring in the additional weight of your electronics/components once you&#;ve completed the final build.

The Metals We Offer

Now that we&#;ve reviewed all the different factors that will go into the decision-making as you complete the preliminary work of designing your custom enclosure, we can now examine each of our stocked sheet metals, and their best use cases.

• Environmental Considerations: Cold Rolled is not ideal for wet environments and is the least corrosion resistant metal option we carry. However, this can be subverted with the powdercoat finishing option.
• Aesthetics: In terms of aesthetics, like all metals, Cold Rolled is essentially indistinguishable from any other option when powdercoating has been applied. It is important to note that Cold Rolled steel will rust if left uncoated.
• Weight: Cold Rolled is quite heavy and stiff compared to aluminum. Though it is not as strong as Stainless it does have the same stiffness.
• Finishing Options: Bare metal (though not recommended) or powdercoat.

Cold Rolled Steel is ideal for general purpose indoor enclosures. However, it will rust if not coated, so bare metal and grained finishes are not recommended. It can be extremely durable indoors when finished with powdercoat. However, it is not inherently corrosion resistant. Cold Rolled Steel will degrade quickly in harsh or wet environments and is therefore not ideal for outdoor use. It is a very stiff metal compared to aluminum.  For its structural integrity, it is an excellent cost-effective option.

• Environmental Considerations: Stainless Steel is the most inherently corrosion resistant of our metal options.
• Aesthetics: Stainless Steel is especially striking with grained finish, but many people prefer the look of Stainless Steel on its own.
• Weight: Stainless Steel is close to the same weight as Cold Rolled Steel, with the same stiffness but a higher strength. However, it is heavier than aluminum.
• Finishing Options: Bare metal, grained finish, or powdercoat are all excellent choices for Stainless Steel.

Stainless Steel is the premium solution to corrosion resistance. This is because of its chromium and nickel content. However, that chromium and nickel come at a cost and makes Stainless Steel more expensive than Cold-Rolled Steel, Aluminum or Galvanneal. It is a great choice general purpose enclosures when corrosion or aesthetics are a concern.

• Environmental Considerations: Aluminum offers some corrosion resistance, but not to the same extent as Stainless Steel.
• Aesthetics: Aluminum offers many, eye-catching finishing options.
• Weight: Aluminum is the most lightweight metal we offer; however, it does not offer the same strength as other metals.
• Finishing Options: Bare metal, grained finish, and powdercoat are all fantastic finishing options for Aluminum. Aluminum can also be chem-filmed and anodized.

Aluminum is corrosion resistant and lightweight. Its lower stiffness will require a thicker gauge to match that of steel. Finishing options include bare metal, grained finish or powdercoat. If electrical contact is required in your design, the aluminum must be chem-filmed (chromate coated). Chem film can also increase the durability of the Aluminum. Anodizing can be completed to provide a durable oxide coating. Consider Aluminum where minimum weight and/or corrosion resistance are your key priorities.

We carry two different kinds of Aluminum, Aluminum &#; H32 and Aluminum &#; T6.  For sheet-metal parts, is preferred, as the metal can bend to a tighter radius than without cracking. For CNC machined enclosures, Aluminum is ideal, because the material is softer and more is easily milled.

• Environmental Considerations: Galvanneal is corrosion resistant as long as the coating is intact.
• Aesthetics: Galvanneal has a dull grey finish.
• Weight: The weight of Galvanneal is similar to Cold Rolled Steel.
• Finishing Options: Galvanneal can be completed with a Bare Finish or Powdercoat.

Galvanneal is a low-carbon steel that is coated with zinc and then annealed in order for the zinc to bond into the substrate, via diffusion. This prevents it from flaking off when formed or bent. The finish acts as a primer and thus easily adheres to paint, while also creating a rust-proof surface. Overall, Galvanneal offers good paintability, corrosion resistance, and formability.

5.  Copper

While we do offer Copper within our sheet-metal offerings, it is very rarely used as the material option for an enclosure. Copper offers excellent electrical conductivity; however, it is extremely soft and thus not ideal to form an enclosure.

Customers typically use Copper for bus bars or miscellaneous parts. Contact us to discuss your options.

Conclusion

When designing a custom enclosure for your specific prototyping/testing projects, it&#;s important to start on the right foot by choosing the metal that will best suit your unique needs.

To recap, here are a few good questions to guide you:

• Where will my enclosure be stored?
• Will my case need to withstand harsh environmental elements?
• How much does weight/weighting factor into my design?
• If you&#;re still unsure, or you simply just want to talk through your design and what will be the right fit for you, contact us, as we are always happy to help!

Enclosures: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Solution from BaltElec

 

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Custom Enclosure Solutions.

Featured content:
Five Critical Differences Between a Single-Stage and ...
8 considerations when investing in a feed bagging system

In the realm of electrical industrial equipment, enclosures play a pivotal role in safeguarding sensitive components and systems. At BaltElec, a leading online store specializing in electrical equipment, enclosures are available in various forms to meet diverse needs. This article delves into the world of enclosures, exploring their advantages, features, product range, and manufacturers available through BaltElec.

What are Enclosures?
Enclosures are protective cases designed to house electrical or electronic components. Their primary function is to shield these components from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, chemicals, and physical impact. Enclosures also help to prevent accidental contact with live parts, ensuring safety and compliance with various standards.

Advantages of Using Enclosures
Protection from Environmental Factors: Enclosures are essential in protecting electrical components from harsh environmental conditions. They prevent damage from dust, dirt, water, and chemicals, which can cause corrosion, short circuits, or other malfunctions.

Safety and Compliance: Enclosures enhance safety by preventing accidental contact with electrical parts, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shock. They also ensure compliance with international safety standards and regulations, such as those set by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission).

Durability: High-quality enclosures are built to withstand mechanical impacts and vibrations. This durability ensures the longevity of the housed components and minimizes maintenance requirements.

Flexibility and Customization: Enclosures come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for flexibility in design and installation. Many enclosures can be customized with additional features such as ventilation, cable entries, and mounting options.

Ease of Installation: Modern enclosures are designed with user-friendly features that simplify installation and maintenance. This can include modular designs, tool-less access, and pre-drilled mounting holes.

Features to Consider When Choosing an Enclosure
Material: Enclosures are made from a variety of materials, including metal (such as steel or aluminum) and plastic (such as polycarbonate or fiberglass). The choice of material affects the enclosure&#;s strength, weight, and resistance to environmental factors.

Ingress Protection (IP) Rating: The IP rating indicates the level of protection an enclosure provides against dust and water ingress. For instance, an IP65 rating means the enclosure is dust-tight and protected against water jets, making it suitable for outdoor use.

Size and Shape: Enclosures come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various components and installation environments. It&#;s crucial to select an enclosure that provides adequate space for your components while fitting within the designated installation area.

Ventilation: Some enclosures feature ventilation options to manage heat dissipation. This is important for preventing overheating of electrical components, especially in high-power applications.

Mounting Options: Enclosures can be designed for wall mounting, floor mounting, or rack mounting. Choosing the right mounting option depends on the installation location and the type of equipment being housed.

Accessibility: Consider how often the components within the enclosure will need to be accessed. Enclosures with hinged doors, removable panels, or lockable latches can facilitate easier access while ensuring security.

Range of Enclosures Available at BaltElec
BaltElec offers a diverse range of enclosures to meet various industrial needs. Here&#;s a look at some of the key categories:

Wall-Mounted Enclosures: These are ideal for mounting on walls in control panels or distribution boards. They are available in various sizes and materials, including powder-coated steel and stainless steel.

Floor-Mounted Enclosures: Designed for larger equipment or multiple components, these enclosures are robust and provide ample space. They are often used in industrial settings where floor space is available for installation.

Rack-Mounted Enclosures: Suitable for server rooms and data centers, these enclosures are designed to house 19-inch rack-mounted equipment. They come in various heights and configurations to fit standard rack sizes.

Junction Boxes: These compact enclosures are used for connecting and protecting electrical junctions and terminations. They are commonly used in both residential and industrial settings.

Explosion-Proof Enclosures: Designed for hazardous environments where there is a risk of explosions, these enclosures are constructed from materials that can withstand explosive forces and prevent ignition of flammable substances.

Custom Enclosures: For specialized applications, BaltElec offers custom enclosures that can be tailored to specific requirements. This includes modifications in size, material, and additional features.

Manufacturers of Enclosures Available at BaltElec
BaltElec collaborates with several renowned manufacturers to offer high-quality enclosures. Some of the notable manufacturers include:

Rittal: A leading manufacturer known for its comprehensive range of enclosures, including wall-mounted, floor-mounted, and rack-mounted solutions. Rittal enclosures are renowned for their durability and innovation.

Schneider Electric: Known for its reliable and versatile enclosures, Schneider Electric provides solutions for various industrial and commercial applications. Their products are designed to meet stringent safety and performance standards.

Hoffman: Specializing in both standard and custom enclosures, Hoffman offers a wide range of options including stainless steel and aluminum enclosures. Their products are designed for durability and ease of use.

Eaton: Eaton provides a range of enclosures that cater to different industrial needs, from basic junction boxes to complex control panel enclosures. Their products are known for their robustness and high quality.

TE Connectivity: Known for its innovative designs, TE Connectivity offers enclosures that provide excellent protection and versatility. Their products are suitable for a wide range of applications.

Conclusion
Choosing the right enclosure is crucial for ensuring the protection, safety, and longevity of electrical components. At BaltElec, a wide variety of enclosures are available to suit different needs and applications. By understanding the advantages and features of enclosures, and exploring the range of products and manufacturers offered by BaltElec, you can make an informed decision that enhances the performance and reliability of your electrical systems. Whether you need a simple junction box or a complex custom enclosure, BaltElec provides solutions that meet high standards of quality and durability.

 

 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Subracks Electronic Packaging Systems. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.