Industrial enclosures have come a long way over the last few decades.

In today’s crowded market, specifiers have numerous options when researching computer enclosures for a manufacturing environment. Size, weight, multiple peripherals, installation concerns, temperature ranges, and long-term, extended use are just some of the factors to consider. Although many elements affect the performance of a computer enclosure, selecting the correct enclosure material is crucial to extending the enclosure's life.

5 Items to Consider When Specifying an Industrial Enclosure

1.   Environment 

The environment the enclosure is exposed to (on a daily basis) significantly impacts the lifetime of the computer enclosure. Exposure to direct sunlight, regular wash down, hazardous, or corrosive environments play a major role in how the enclosure will perform after several years. For example, a mild steel enclosure will rust in a wet, corrosive environment. System designers must identify if the enclosure will be exposed to harsh, wash down chemicals such as chlorine, sodium hydroxide, or acid.

2.   Modifications

In certain instances, computer enclosures will need to be modified in the field. Whether the maintenance team needs to retrofit an air conditioner or punch a hole for a cable gland, the flexibility of the enclosure material is important. In the case of modifications, mild steel is a viable option. With the correct metalworking tool, holes can easily be punched into the enclosure. Stainless steel, due to its rigidity, is extremely difficult to cut and far more challenging to modify on site.

3.   Price

System designers and specifiers alike are always concerned with getting the highest quality product for the most cost-effective price. At times, price becomes the overall deciding factor. However, it is never sensible to base the decision on the cheapest quote! Obviously, many companies exist and they all offer various enclosure products at varying price points. Enclosures constructed out of Type 304 stainless steel will perform quite well in harsh surroundings. However, when budgets are tight, a more economical painted steel enclosure can be placed in areas with no exposure to harsh chemicals or corrosives. Do the proper research to find the best enclosure at the best price.

4.   Thermal Management

Determining the correct thermal management is critical for extending the lifetime of the electronics housed inside of the computer enclosure. Richard A. Kirkpatrick of TB Woods, Inc. in Chambersburg, PA explains, “Electronic components of many commercial and industrial systems are temperature dependent. Inside these electronic components (including power supplies, electronic motor drives, and PLC's), are electronic parts which only function properly within specified temperature ranges.” Therefore, it is imperative to understand the highest and lowest temperature the enclosure will be exposed to, in addition to the amount of heat the electronics will produce to specify the correct cooling and/or heating device. The enclosure material also plays a role in determining thermal management. Stainless steel enclosures absorb and conduct heat. If heat dissipation is a concern, a metallic enclosure generally dissipates heat better than a non-metallic enclosure.  Example of Cooling Worksheet

5.   Aesthetics

Most customers require the enclosure to provide the most utility for its objective, but also desire the cabinet to be branded with a company logo or powder coated in the company’s specific color scheme. This can usually be accomplished for an additional charge. According to Sarah Matista in Small Business Marketing, Small Business Strategy, “A consistent brand identity makes your business seem more legitimate. It’s no wonder that multinational brands like Chevrolet and McDonald’s have very defined logos and colors. These brand identities have become so well-known that people can identify the company if they’re only shown the logo.”

Enclosure providers exist across the globe, but not all products are equal in quality and ruggedness. It is always a smart choice to find the enclosure provider that will give you or your customer the greatest enclosure for the determined budget. Oftentimes, price becomes the deciding factor, and if the product is sub-par, then a new enclosure will need to be purchased sooner than later, which will cost more money in the long-run. Proper homework and research, at the beginning, will cause less headaches and less money in the end!

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