Dust-free, dry and spotless production areas are not possible when working in a dirty, harsh industrial environment.
Equipment will get dirty during the manufacturing process and it is, more than likely, required to be cleaned on a daily or weekly basis. It is simply unavoidable. It is imperative to use large format LCDs on the factory floor for everything from inventory to process control to employee scheduling. How can everything exist in harmony?
Numerous options exist for differing environments and sizes of LCDs, but which one is the right choice?
3 Types of Manufacturing Enclosures for LCDs
1. Protective LCD Cover:
When installing an LCD in a challenging manufacturing environment, it may be desirable to use a protective LCD cover to expertly conceal the display, media player and other bothersome power and network cables. LCD covers are often available to be used in conjunction with an universal standard display mount. Clean and protective covers also serve as a smart way to incorporate custom colors or logo branding to match the company’s overall marketing theme. The covers are generally constructed out of lightweight aluminum with an acrylic viewing window and are designed for light, indoor use. Depending on the size of the LCD, the cover may have to be custom designed and fabricated for the specific make and model. However, if it is custom, the fit will be perfect.
2. Passively Cooled:
Vented or passively cooled LCD enclosures are very popular in many industrial settings, because it reduces energy consumption. How? Passively cooled display enclosures do not require any thermal management or accessories (air conditioners, fans/filters, thermostats). For environments that do not experience extremely warm temperatures, a passively cooled enclosure is desirable. Heat produced by the LCD is exhausted through vents or louvers in the enclosure. Vented LCD enclosures are compatible with most of the popular LCD mounts on the market. A passively cooled enclosure is ideal for those looking for the "in-between" LCD enclosure solution. Vented LCD enclosures provide just the right amount of protection and for a price that is more cost-effective than other enclosures.
3. Environmental LCD Enclosure:
Certain manufacturing environments are particularly tough on electronics and will require more protection than is offered by a cover or vented enclosure. When not properly protected, dirt, oil, grease and dust can wreak absolute havoc on a LCD. If equipment wash down is required, a sealed environmental LCD enclosure will provide protection from splashing fluids and harsh cleaning products. Display enclosures can be mounted on a wall, ceiling, or post. Consult an enclosure expert to determine if a fan cooled or air conditioned solution is best for the application. Download a Cooling Worksheet
Additional Helpful Tip: Inquire if the enclosure utilizes anti-reflective glass. A glare may be cast due to abundant lighting on the outside of the window, but a cumbersome glare may also occur between the LCD and window.
When deciding on the best and most effective LCD enclosure, the environment and temperature extremes should be two of the most important aspects of the solution. If the environment has corrosive liquids, then the enclosure must be constructed out of a tough/heavy-duty material, like stainless steel. However, in some environments, an aluminum enclosure with a powder coat finish may be adequate. Research and proper planning are always helpful tools in finding the perfect enclosure for you or your client’s needs.
For more information, read 3 LCD ENCLOSURE TRENDS IN MANUFACTURING
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