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Electronic Enclosures
Electrical enclosures or electronic enclosures are described by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) as “a cabinet or box that encloses electrical or electronic equipment to prevent or reduce electrical shock.” The enclosures can also be made out of rigid plastics in addition to metals like stainless steel and aluminum.
In addition to its general definition, what practical uses do electronic enclosures have, and how should they be picked, purchased, and installed?
An Introduction to Electronic Enclosures
In addition to utility, industrial, and various building environments, electronic enclosures protect electrical equipment from the environment. Enclosures are rated according to the type of environment they protect against, such as hazardous or nonhazardous.
A radio frequency interference shield and an electromagnetic interference shield are also available for these enclosures. Here are some examples of such equipment:
- Circuit Breakers
- Control Panels
- Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)
- Panelboards
- Switches
- Telephone Cabinets
- Contactors
- Pressurization Equipment
- Purging Equipment
- Distribution Boards
- Pressurization Systems
- Purging Systems
These units are found in various plants, such as electrical and telecommunication rooms, chemical plants, manufacturing plants, gas plants, mines, charging stations for electric cars, and oil facilities.
Moreover, all electronic enclosures must comply with the guidelines and requirements set forth by the National Electronic Code® (NEC) and any and all applicable local regulations.
Enclosures Common to Electronics
With the rapid advancement of technology, electronic enclosures from innovative manufacturers are highly sought after. Choosing the right enclosure for your scenario and environment has never been more important than it is now. In addition to reducing your operating costs, the right enclosure may even save lives.
The consequences are huge (they really are).
Therefore, most design engineers have difficulty with the actual selection process. In order to determine if the enclosure is suitable for the application, they must match its unique manufacturing with the intended application.
The Electronic Project Box Aluminum for equipment enclosure is not just a metal box, as you might think. Various types exist that differ in appearance, performance, and functionality.
An example of an electronic enclosure can be found here.
NEMA Types
National Electrical Manufacturers Association is what NEMA stands for, as mentioned earlier. Using NEMA ratings, this organization designs North American enclosure standards. NEMA ratings indicate that an enclosure is “able to withstand specific environments and hazards.” That makes choosing the correct enclosure a whole lot easier. NEMA-rated models include the following:
NEMA 1
(In comparison to all other NEMA enclosures) NEMA 1 rated enclosures provide minimal protection. Although they are not completely impervious to dirt, dust, and accidental contact with electronic equipment, these cases still offer some protection. Because of this, they are suitable for residential applications, like housing electric motors (or valuable electronics).
NEMA 1 electronic enclosures offer the following benefits:
- Installed in a non-hazardous environment, costs less (if installed properly)
- Electrical equipment should not be accessible to the public
- Protect electrical equipment from theft
NEMA 1 enclosures have the following drawbacks:
- Protects against moderate environmental conditions (i.e., moisture, water, heat, etc.)
- Provides minimum protection from overheating (electronic equipment frequently generates a large amount of heat, resulting in overheating).
- For ventilation through enclosures and to minimize the risk of overheating, additional venting accessories may be necessary
NEMA 3
Both indoor and outdoor applications can be utilized with NEMA 3 enclosures. Though the NEMA rating is the lowest among outdoor enclosures, they are the most commonly used. Their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to resist moderate environmental conditions mean they are ideal for moderate environments.
The following are some of the benefits of NEMA 3 enclosures:
- Prevents the formation of external ice by preventing dirt, dust, rain, snow, and sleet
- An electrical junction box capable of functioning outdoors
- Commercially and industrially applicable