To choose an industrial enclosure, start with the environment and required NEMA rating, then evaluate materials, equipment fit, thermal management, mounting, and operator access. The right combination protects your equipment while supporting the work around it.

This guide walks through eight selection factors and includes a checklist to help you compare options or prepare for a quote.

1. Start With Your Environment

Before comparing enclosure models, identify the conditions your equipment will face.

An enclosure installed on a dusty manufacturing floor may need different protection than one used in a food processing facility with frequent washdowns.

Consider these questions:

• Will the enclosure be installed indoors or outdoors?
• Is the area exposed to dust, dirt, grease, or debris?
• Will water, moisture, or washdowns be present?
• Are chemicals or corrosive materials used nearby?
• What temperatures will the enclosure experience?
• Will the equipment be exposed to impacts or other physical hazards?

Understanding the environment first helps narrow down the level of protection your equipment needs.

For washdown applications, review the NEMA 4X computer enclosure features that can support equipment protection and cleanability.

2. Choose the Right NEMA Rating

A NEMA enclosure type describes a defined level of protection against environmental conditions.

Not every application requires the same protection. Select the rating based on the actual exposure rather than assuming one enclosure type suits every industrial environment.

NEMA 12 Enclosures

NEMA 12 enclosures are designed for indoor use, providing protection against conditions including circulating dust, dirt, lint, fibers, and dripping or light splashing of non-corrosive liquids.

They may be a practical choice for manufacturing facilities where airborne contaminants are a primary concern.

NEMA 4 Enclosures

NEMA 4 enclosures provide protection against conditions including windblown dust, rain, splashing water, and hose-directed water.

They are designed for indoor or outdoor use and may be appropriate for certain wet or washdown applications.

NEMA 4X Enclosures

NEMA 4X enclosures provide protection similar to NEMA 4, with added corrosion resistance.

They are often considered for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and other processing environments where moisture, washdowns, or corrosive conditions are present.

The rating is only part of the selection process. Confirm that the enclosure material, seals, cable entries, and installed accessories are suitable for the application. NEMA 4X does not establish resistance to every cleaning chemical or washdown process.

3. Select the Right Enclosure Material

The material used to build an enclosure affects its strength, weight, corrosion resistance, and long-term performance.

Three common industrial enclosure materials are mild steel, stainless steel, and non-metallic materials.

Mild Steel

Mild steel is a durable option for many industrial applications.

Powder-coated steel enclosures are commonly used in manufacturing environments where protection from dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants is needed. The coating provides a protective layer, but damage to the finish can leave the underlying steel vulnerable to corrosion.

Evaluate the expected exposure and maintenance requirements before choosing mild steel for wet or corrosive conditions.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel provides corrosion resistance and cleanable surfaces, making it useful in environments involving moisture, frequent cleaning, or washdowns.

It may be suitable for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and other processing facilities.

The specific stainless steel grade should be selected based on the chemicals, cleaning agents, temperatures, and other conditions present.

Non-Metallic Materials

Non-metallic enclosures, including certain fiberglass and polycarbonate designs, may offer lower weight, corrosion resistance, and electrical insulation.

These materials are often used for electrical enclosures and junction boxes. Their suitability depends on the equipment, mounting requirements, temperature, chemical exposure, and other operating conditions.

Compare these options in more detail in our guide to industrial enclosure materials.

4. Determine the Right Enclosure Size

An enclosure needs enough room for the equipment inside it, but equipment dimensions are only the starting point.

Before selecting a size, list everything the enclosure needs to hold. This may include:

• Computers or industrial PCs
• Monitors and touchscreens
• Printers and label printers
• Keyboards and pointing devices
• Power supplies and other electronics
• Cables and connections
• Mounting hardware
• Cooling or heating components

Consider each component’s width, height, and depth, along with clearance for airflow, cable routing, door movement, and maintenance access. Use the enclosure’s usable internal dimensions when checking fit.

An enclosure that is too small can make installation difficult and restrict airflow. One that is much larger than necessary may take up valuable workspace.

The enclosure type also matters. Explore computer enclosures, monitor enclosures, printer enclosures, or rack enclosures based on the equipment you need to protect.

5. Consider Thermal Management

Electronics generate heat during operation. Inside an enclosure, that heat can build up and affect performance.

Thermal management should keep equipment within the manufacturer’s recommended operating conditions. Depending on the application, options may include:

• Filtered fan systems: Use filtered surrounding air to remove heat when ambient temperatures and contaminants allow.
• Air conditioners: Provide active cooling when outside air alone cannot maintain the required internal temperature.
• Air-to-air heat exchangers: Transfer heat through separate air circuits when outside air is cooler than the intended enclosure temperature.
• Vortex coolers: Use clean, dry compressed air for enclosure cooling.
• Heaters: Help maintain suitable temperatures in cold conditions.

The appropriate solution depends on equipment heat output, ambient temperature, enclosure size, contaminants, and the required environmental protection.

Not every enclosure needs active cooling, but thermal management should be considered before equipment is installed.

For more guidance, read about enclosure filter fans or configuring a temperature controlled rack enclosure. You can also complete the Cooling Requirement Worksheet to share your application details with ITSENCLOSURES.

6. Plan the Mounting and Installation

Where and how an enclosure will be installed affects which configuration will work best.

Some applications require a stationary workstation. Others benefit from a mobile enclosure that can move between work areas.

Depending on the product, installation options may include:

• Freestanding enclosures
• Wall-mounted enclosures
• Pedestal-mounted workstations
• Mobile configurations with casters
• Bolt-down stands or legs

Consider available floor or wall space, equipment weight, operator access, and nearby machinery. Allow room for doors to open and for technicians to reach service points.

For wall-mounted or elevated installations, the mounting hardware and supporting structure must be suitable for the total installed weight of the enclosure, equipment, and accessories.

Plan power and data connections at this stage as well. Cable entry methods must support the environmental protection required for the application.

7. Configure Equipment Access and Daily Use

An enclosure should protect electronics without making them difficult to use.

Think about how operators will interact with the equipment throughout the day. Will they need to use a keyboard or touchscreen, retrieve printed labels, or connect peripheral devices? How will technicians access equipment for maintenance?

Depending on the model, options may include:

• Lockable doors
• Viewing windows
• Panel-mount monitor doors
• Keyboard trays and drawers
• Adjustable or sliding shelves
• Hinged printer access doors
• Cable entry and management options
• Industrial keyboards and pointing devices

Confirm compatibility with the specific equipment being installed. Screen position, keyboard height, printer access, and door clearance should suit the people and tasks at the workstation.

8. Plan for Future Equipment Changes

Industrial technology changes over time. A computer may be replaced, a monitor may get larger, or a printer may need to be upgraded.

Consider whether the enclosure offers:

• Space for reasonable equipment changes
• Adjustable shelves or mounting options
• Access for removing and replacing components
• Room for additional cables and connections
• Thermal management capacity for planned additions

You don’t need to accommodate every possible upgrade. Some flexibility can help avoid replacing an otherwise reliable enclosure when equipment changes.

Recheck equipment fit and cooling requirements whenever components are added or replaced. Extra space alone does not guarantee that the existing thermal management system can handle a higher heat load.

Industrial Enclosure Selection Checklist

Gather these details before comparing models or requesting a quote:

These details provide a useful starting point for evaluating enclosure options. If some information is unavailable, identify what still needs to be confirmed.

Find the Right Protection for Your Equipment

The right industrial enclosure depends on your equipment, environment, and application. You don’t need to know every specification before asking for help.

ITSENCLOSURES offers NEMA-rated industrial enclosures with configurable options for computers, monitors, printers, and other electronics.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES for help selecting the right enclosure, NEMA rating, material, and configuration for your application.

The post Choosing the Right Industrial Enclosure: What to Look For appeared first on ITSENCLOSURES.

NEMA 4X enclosure cooling requires balancing temperature control with the environmental protection required for the enclosure. Depending on the application, cooling options can include heat exchangers, vortex coolers, and air conditioners designed for the enclosure and operating environment.

Understanding NEMA 4X Enclosure Cooling 

When deploying enclosures in an environment with extreme temperatures, thermal management is critical. It is necessary for maintaining the optimum performance of electronics and for keeping a computer system protected from elevated levels of heat.

Because NEMA 4X enclosures are designed to protect against water and other environmental exposures, cooling the equipment inside can present additional challenges.

Because NEMA 4X enclosures are designed to provide environmental protection, adding vents, fans, or other cooling equipment requires careful consideration of how those components affect the enclosure’s protection. Thermal management equipment should be appropriately rated and installed for the enclosure and application.

Can You Put a Fan or Vent in a NEMA 4X Enclosure?

Fans and vents can affect an enclosure’s environmental protection because they create additional openings and pathways for airflow. If ventilation or cooling equipment is added to a NEMA 4X enclosure, the components and installation should be appropriate for the required enclosure rating and operating environment.

3 Common Cooling Methods for NEMA 4X Enclosures

Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger can be used to transfer heat from the inside of the cabinet to the outside to help keep internal electronic components within appropriate operating temperatures.

When does it make sense? Heat exchangers may be appropriate when the required internal enclosure temperature can remain above the external ambient temperature.

Vortex Cooler

Vortex cooling units produce cool air using clean, dry compressed air.

These units do not have refrigerants or moving parts, so they can be useful in demanding environments.

When does it make sense? A vortex cooler may be considered when compressed air is available and the application requires active enclosure cooling without a conventional refrigeration system.

Air Conditioners

A NEMA 4X-rated air conditioner can be installed in an environment where the electronics inside of the enclosure need to be cooled at or below the ambient external temperature.

When does it make sense? An enclosure air conditioner may be appropriate when the required internal temperature cannot be maintained using methods that depend on ambient temperature alone.

Air conditioners also require routine maintenance to support proper performance. Maintenance requirements should follow the cooling-system manufacturer’s recommendations and the conditions of the operating environment.

How Do NEMA 4X Enclosure Cooling Methods Compare?

What to Know Before Choosing a Cooling System

Prior to deploying a NEMA 4X computer or printer enclosure, perform research and conduct a thorough examination of the installation environment. 

Compile a list of all electronics which will be installed inside of the enclosure. The list should include the average heat load and operating temperatures. 

Before selecting a cooling method, gather information about:

• Equipment installed inside the enclosure
• Total equipment heat load
• Maximum allowable internal temperature
• Minimum and maximum ambient temperatures
• Humidity and moisture exposure
• Water, dust, chemicals, and other contaminants
• Available electrical power or compressed air
• Required enclosure rating

This information can help determine which thermal management method is appropriate for the enclosure, equipment, and operating environment.

Choosing the Right Cooling Solution for a NEMA 4X Enclosure

The right NEMA 4X enclosure cooling solution depends on the heat generated inside the enclosure, ambient conditions, required internal temperature, environmental exposure, and available utilities. Selecting thermal management alongside the enclosure, not after equipment is already overheating, can help reduce heat-related equipment problems and unplanned downtime.

Need help calculating your enclosure cooling requirements? Complete the Cooling Requirement Worksheet and talk with an ITSENCLOSURES specialist about your application.

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Protecting Electronics in Humid Environments

In many harsh, manufacturing settings, printers, computers, monitors, and electrical equipment are housed in industrial computer enclosures that are designed to protect against severe, exterior environments (humidity, water, dirt, dust). However, even in a NEMA rated enclosure, liquid can enter the enclosure under a variety of circumstances. Obviously, the goal is to keep harmful elements, like moisture or condensation, out of the enclosure!

How Does Condensation Affect Electronics Inside an Enclosure?

Condensation is defined as water which collects on a cold surface when humid air makes contact. In other words, temperature fluctuations between the inside and outside of the computer enclosure can cause condensation, which can make its way into the enclosure. 

Condensation can occur when humid air contacts a surface that is below the air’s dew point, causing moisture to form on the surface.

Any moisture can damage electronics, shorten their lifetime, and affect the performance of the internal components. When it comes to condensation, corrosion or rust are also serious concerns, which will render critical electronic mechanisms useless.

How Can Moisture Get Inside a Computer Enclosure?

Moisture can also penetrate the inside of an enclosure through various paths – door left open, a vent, defective door latch/hinge, filtered fan system, brittle gasket, or a poorly sealed cable entry point. 

Common moisture entry points can include:

• Open or improperly closed doors
• Vents and filtered fan systems
• Damaged or deteriorating gaskets
• Defective door latches or hinges
• Improperly sealed cable entry points
• Water exposure during washdown or cleaning

Plus, during a regular washdown, it is possible for the high pressure spray and cleaning solution to penetrate around the sealed enclosure doors and gaskets. 

The appropriate enclosure and NEMA rating should therefore be selected based on the actual water, moisture, cleaning, and environmental exposure expected in the application.

If the water is not detected, mold or fungi can form in small areas and become an enormous problem. In fact, according to FEMA, mold can grown quickly, “mildew and mold will develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Even worse, it will continue to grow until steps are taken to eliminate the source of moisture, and effectively deal with the mold problem… Molds digest organic material, eventually destroying the material they grow on, and then spread to destroy adjacent organic material.”

Managing Heat and Humidity Inside an Enclosure 

Naturally, it is advisable to install a “closed-loop” cooling solution for humid, moisture prone environments. Closed loop cooling systems are specifically designed to mount to an enclosure and remove heat, without letting outside air (or water) into the sealed enclosure. 

Closed-loop cooling can help manage enclosure temperatures without continuously introducing humid outside air into the cabinet.

The cooling performance of a closed-loop system depends on the technology being used, equipment heat load, ambient conditions, and desired internal enclosure temperature.

Cooling Systems for Humid Environments

Examples of closed loop cooling systems include air conditioners, vortex coolers and heat exchangers (heat exchangers will not cool below the ambient temperature). 

These systems usually employ a thermostat and/or humidity control for monitoring. Closed loop systems are generally “non-condensating.” The only time condensation may occur is if there is a quick and dramatic temperature fluctuation to the system (i.e. switching thermostat from 80°F to 65°F). In fact, air conditioners and vortex coolers can often work to remove moisture from the inside of the computer enclosure.

Choosing an Enclosure for a Humid Environment 

When searching for the best enclosures for a humid environment, make sure that it is built to protect against water entering the cabinet. Obviously, water has a way of getting into the tiniest spaces if not properly safeguarded! 

In humid environments, moisture may enter the enclosure when the door is minimally open for quick routine maintenance.

When selecting an enclosure for a humid environment, consider the expected moisture and water exposure, required NEMA rating, gasket and door design, cable entry points, maintenance requirements, and thermal management needs.

A properly selected and maintained enclosure can help reduce exposure to moisture and contaminants, protecting sensitive electronics and reducing the risk of unplanned downtime.

As always, downtime can be costly, so it is always prudent to keep all electronics up and running for as long as possible.

Find the Right Protection For Your Equipment 

Managing humidity requires looking at the enclosure and thermal management system together. Understanding moisture exposure, temperature changes, enclosure sealing, NEMA requirements, and equipment heat load before installation can help reduce condensation and moisture-related problems.

Need help selecting an enclosure for a humid environment? Explore our industrial computer enclosures or talk with ITSENCLOSURES about your equipment and operating conditions.

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Industrial enclosures protect computers, printers, monitors, and other electronics from the conditions around them. Choosing the right enclosure material starts with understanding those conditions.

Dust, water, cleaning chemicals, corrosion, temperature, and installation requirements all influence material selection. The enclosure’s construction and NEMA rating must also suit the equipment and environment.

3 Common Industrial Enclosure Materials

Mild steel, stainless steel, and non-metallic materials offer different advantages. Here’s how they compare and where each may be appropriate.

1. Mild Steel Enclosures

Mild steel, also called low-carbon steel, is widely used for industrial computer, printer, monitor, and rack enclosures. Its strength makes it a practical choice for applications requiring durable construction.

A powder-coated finish provides a protective layer, although damage to that finish can leave the underlying steel vulnerable to corrosion.

Mild steel is commonly used for NEMA 12 enclosures and certain NEMA 4 applications. It may be suitable when:

• Dust, dirt, grease, or debris are primary concerns
• Heavy-duty construction is needed
• Environmental exposure is compatible with the protective finish

Where moisture or corrosive substances are present, evaluate whether the coating provides sufficient protection and how it will be maintained.

2. Stainless Steel Enclosures

Stainless steel offers corrosion resistance and cleanable surfaces, making it a common choice for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and other demanding processing environments.

ITSENCLOSURES uses Type 304 stainless steel for its NEMA 4X computer, monitor, and printer enclosures.

Stainless steel may be suitable when:

• Equipment is exposed to moisture or washdowns
• Corrosion resistance is important
• Frequent cleaning is required

Stainless steel is not resistant to every chemical or cleaning process. Confirm compatibility with the substances, concentrations, temperatures, and exposure conditions in the application.

3. Non-Metallic Enclosures

Non-metallic materials, such as fiberglass and polycarbonate, are commonly used for junction boxes and electrical enclosures.

Depending on the material and design, they can offer lower weight, corrosion resistance, and electrical insulation. They may be suitable when:

• Lower enclosure weight is important
• Environmental exposure is compatible with the material
• Electrical insulation is a consideration
• The enclosure can accommodate the equipment and mounting requirements

Temperature limits, UV exposure, impact resistance, and chemical compatibility vary by material. Evaluate the specific enclosure rather than treating all non-metallic options as interchangeable.

Mild Steel vs. Stainless Steel Enclosures

Both materials provide durable construction. The main distinction is their resistance to the surrounding conditions.

Powder-coated mild steel can serve many industrial applications where its finish provides appropriate protection. Stainless steel may be preferable where corrosion resistance and frequent cleaning are priorities.

Compare the expected exposure, cleaning process, maintenance needs, and cost before selecting either material.

Weight and Mounting Considerations

Enclosure weight matters when mounting to a wall, pole, ceiling, or other supporting structure. Consider the total installed weight, including the equipment, shelves, accessories, and thermal management components.

Steel and stainless steel enclosures are generally heavier than comparable non-metallic options. However, dimensions and construction also affect weight.

Confirm that the enclosure, mounting hardware, and supporting structure are suitable for the installation.

How Does NEMA Rating Affect Material Selection?

Material alone does not establish an enclosure’s NEMA rating. The complete design, including doors, seals, hardware, and openings, affects its environmental protection.

Different materials can meet the same enclosure type requirements. For example, NEMA 4X is not limited to stainless steel; appropriately designed non-metallic enclosures can also provide that level of protection.

Choose the required NEMA rating based on the exposure your equipment will face, then evaluate which materials are compatible with the application.

Choosing the Right Enclosure Material

Before comparing options, gather these details:

• Equipment: Dimensions, weight, access needs, and heat output
• Location: Indoor or outdoor use and expected temperatures
• Contaminants: Dust, dirt, grease, chemicals, or corrosive substances
• Cleaning: Water exposure, washdown conditions, and cleaning agents
• Installation: Mounting method, available space, and structural support
• Protection: Required NEMA rating and any other application requirements

Use this information to evaluate the enclosure as a complete system, including its material, finish, seals, cable entry, and thermal management.

Find the Right Protection for Your Equipment

ITSENCLOSURES can help you evaluate steel and stainless steel enclosure options, NEMA ratings, and available configurations for your application.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES to discuss your equipment and operating conditions.

The post Types of Enclosure Materials appeared first on ITSENCLOSURES.

In manufacturing environments, the demand for label printers continues to rise at a fast rate. From product labels to serial numbers to shipping labels, it is almost impossible for a product to ship out of a factory or warehouse without some type of identification sticker. It is no secret that warehouses, plants, and factories are oftentimes dusty and dirty and printers cannot survive in such harsh areas. The solution is an environmental enclosure. Printer enclosures can protect popular label printer brands like Zebra, Dymo, Brother, Seiko, or Sato from dust, dirt, grease, or even hose directed water and chemicals.

When configuring a printer enclosure for your company or customer, be sure to ask 3 questions to ensure the enclosure is appropriate for your specific needs.

How will the label(s) be accessed?

Before purchasing printer enclosures, understand how often the labels will be printed. This will dictate if a slot in the window door or a hinged printer access door should be installed/utilized on the enclosure. Busy manufacturing factories can print upwards of 100 labels every hour, if not more. A slotted path is ideal for continuous label access and will feed the labels quickly and efficiently out of the cabinet. A hinged printer door is a better solution for a company that only prints a minimal number of labels per hour.

What is the level of protection?

Label access goes hand in hand with the level of enclosure protection. If dust, grease, or water is a primary concern for enclosing the printer, consider the trade-offs of using a printer access door over a slotted path. A printer access door will provide an environmental seal around the enclosure to keep dirt, dust, and liquids away from the printer. Also consider environmental concerns, such as freezer locations or cold warehouses, which pose problems for thermal transfer printers. Small heaters or filtered fan systems are common thermal management systems installed on printer enclosures to provide heating or cooling throughout the year.

What is the return on investment?

Integrators may be conflicted with the decision to spend a large amount of budget on environmental printer enclosures. Considering the price of the enclosure, is it worth spending money on a NEMA rated printer enclosure or could the printers be used daily without any protection? Understand the actual cost of replacing a barcode printer – contemplate the cost to purchase a new unit, as well as, the downtime associated with employees unable to use the printer to complete tasks.

First and foremost, make sure that the chosen enclosure(s) is NEMA rated to protect against harmful elements in a factory, warehouse, or plant. Printer enclosures will extend the life of a barcode label printer, while offering security and protection from outside factors. In the industrial enclosure industry, ‘you get what you pay for’ is a very honest statement. Always shop around and find the enclosure solution that will best fit the needs of your business, while providing a safe environment for your printer.

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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Looking for a desktop computer enclosure that can house a monitor (up to 24-inches or 27-inches with window modification), computer, keyboard, and mouse? Introducing the NEMA 12 IceStation Desktop TITAN by ITSENCLOSURES!

Measuring 31-inches high by 30-inches wide by 30-inches deep, the 14-gauge steel, half-height TITAN is a heavy-duty, industrial enclosure that will protect your valuable electronics against dust, dirt, lint, grease, and light/splashing fluids.

Out of the box, the Desktop TITAN includes the following:

• Adjustable monitor shelf with built-in VESA mount
• Integrated keyboard drawer with ergonomic wrist rest
• Viewing window: 24-inch tempered safety glass for 24-inch monitor
  • Polycarbonate window available (special request)
  • Option to upgrade the enclosure window to accommodate 27-inch monitor
• Sloped work surface for documents, data sheets, drawings, folders, tablet, and pencils

Additional accessories to create the ‘perfect’ Desktop TITAN:

Bolt Down Pedestal – A bolt down pedestal can create a freestanding computer enclosure workstation for end users. The steel pedestal (black powder coated) creates stability and is adjustable vertically (33 to 43-inches in 1-inch increments) to create a proper height for most workers and personnel.

Mobile Pedestal – If the computer enclosure needs to be relocated and positioned in various locations on a factory/manufacturing floor, the desktop TITAN can be fitted on a mobile pedestal. The pedestal is 11-gauge material, black powder coated, cold rolled steel. The four casters have a 3.5-inch wheel diameter, and the front castors are lockable, while the rear swivel.

Either pedestal can be powder coated any RAL color for an additional charge.

ROX Cable Entry Gland – To easily run cables into the computer enclosure, a sealed cable entry gland can be installed to provide power to the enclosed electronics. Cables can be routed through close-fitting modules, which will protect against dust and water entry. The modules peel away (like an onion) to allow for varying cable diameters. Modules are installed around the cables and a compression unit is tightened for a compact seal.

Surge Protector/Power Cord – All Desktop TITAN enclosures require power and adding a 6-outlet surge protector and 10-foot power cord to the inside of the computer enclosure will enable a user to plug in up to six electronic units, including a monitor and a computer.

Thermal Management – A filtered fan system with thermostat, air conditioner (1,000 BTU or 1,800 BTU), heat exchanger (NEMA 12), vortex cooling unit, and various small heaters can be added to the Desktop TITAN. If unsure which system will work best for your specific needs, consult an ITSENCLOSURES representative for a cooling (or heating) recommendation.

The IceStation half-height TITAN is available in Blue, Gray, or any custom RAL color of your choice – for an additional charge. If you need an enclosure (in an industrial setting) for a desk, table, or countertop, then the desktop TITAN is the perfect choice.

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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When storing electronics in a computer, monitor, printer, or rack enclosure, proper cooling is necessary to increase the overall life of the electronics. It comes as no surprise that heat can damage electronics. As a rule of thumb, the life expectancy of electronics is cut in half for every 18°F in which they operate above room temperature. System integrators should be aware that operating electronics in high or elevated temperatures can void manufacturer warranties. Thus, the correct thermal management is critical for a computer enclosure deployment in a manufacturing setting.

Many factors influence the temperature – in which electronics are exposed – on the inside of a computer enclosure. In the blog, ‘Could High Humidity be Hurting Your Electronics?,’ the author notes that “electronics are more delicate than you may think, and are susceptible to damage in high-humidity environments. It is important to keep relative humidity between 40-60% to keep electronics running efficiently.” Therefore, it is imperative to consider not only the electronics’ heat output, but also the environmental factors that may cause high ambient air temperatures.

The following are some examples of potential sources of heat:

• Power Supplies
• Controllers, Drives, or Servers
• Computers and Monitors
• Rack Electronics
• Printers (Barcode, Label, or Desktop)
• Solar Gain Heat
• Furnaces or Ovens
• Foundry Equipment

Electronics, which are more robust than average off-the-shelf products, will most likely have a higher heat output. Because we live in a world where faster is better and processing capacity is extremely important, more powerful systems are being designed at a rapid pace. Powerful electronics will generate more heat and, as a result, will require some form of cooling, like a filtered fan system, heat exchanger, vortex cooling unit, or air conditioner.

What are Common Consequences of Damaging Heat?

Heat building up – on the inside of an industrial enclosure – can adversely affect controls and sensitive electronics.

Below are a few examples of the adverse reactions of too much heat.

• De-Rated Drive Performance
• Electronics Failure
• Productivity Loss/Down time
• High Component Replacement Costs
• Late Shipments
• Lost Revenue
• Customer Dissatisfaction

When searching for the right enclosure solution, speak with an enclosure expert to configure the best cooling solution based on a user’s specific application. When discussing the installation of electronics on the inside of an enclosure, thermal management should always be on the list of must-haves. High heat will damage electronics when stored inside of an enclosure.

Simply put, any type of thermal management will help a computer system run more smoothly.

Download the cooling requirement worksheet for the first step in creating the perfect environment for your electronics.

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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4 important factors to consider for the perfect solution:

1. Environment  

Knowing about the overall installation environment is critical to choosing the right enclosure. If the enclosure will be installed near water, dust, dirt, grease, or any type of contaminants, be familiar with the NEMA (or IP) rating that will provide the appropriate level of protection. Excessive heat is also an area of concern. Internal components need to have ample room to ‘breathe’ inside of an electrical enclosure.

2. Electronics

Make a list of the internal components that will be installed on the inside of the enclosure. Understand the amount of heat (wattage) the electronics will produce, as well as the required minimum and maximum operating temperatures. It is important to know if the selected enclosure will be able to dissipate the heat load. Thermal management should be considered for most environments, as proper airflow is vital to keeping electronics ‘cooled down.’ For a recommendation, ask an enclosure specialist to provide a thermal management worksheet. Based on the data provided, a recommendation can be made for cooling and/or heating the enclosure.

3. Accessibility

Will you need to access different sides of the enclosure to reach components? For instance, will there be enough space to reach a pertinent wire? Consider how cables or conduit will enter/exit the enclosure and be mindful of the maintenance personnel that will service the electrical enclosure. If the electronics are placed too close together, a routine procedure can turn into an arduous task. Always account for the proper amount of internal space – this will provide room for the proper airflow and access for a technician’s hands. Also, be aware of any obstacles that will reside on the sides, front, top, bottom, or back of the electrical enclosure. This information is also helpful in determining the swing or span of the door.

4. Room to Grow

The smallest or least expensive electrical enclosure is not always the best solution. Although space equates to a lower cost, consider the long-term sustainability and reliability of the equipment. Electronics are ever changing. Does the enclosure provide room to grow?  Do not choose a size that provides just enough space to house the current list of electronics. Consider any potential future components that may need to be installed. Remember, if the enclosure is not an adequate size to install a control, the entire system will need to be replaced later. It is never an easy task to change out an enclosure once the components have been installed, so make sure it is correct on the initial installation!

Consider all options for deploying enclosures at your factory or manufacturing facility. Obviously, before installation, weigh all pros and cons. It cannot be stressed enough: homework and research, at the beginning, will greatly decrease the need to replace or repair electronics down the road. Find a solution that will protect and secure your valuable equipment. In turn, purchasing a “cheap” or substandard enclosure can mean downtime and lost money!

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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Mt Pleasant, PA (August 5, 2021) – ITSENCLOSURES (Integration Technology Systems) designs, engineers, and fabricates the most heavy-duty computer enclosures, monitor enclosures, printer enclosures, and rack/electronic enclosures on the market.

Designed specifically for heavy washdown environments, the NEMA 4X IceStation TITAN (IS603027-4X) enclosure body is constructed out of 14-gauge, type 304 stainless-steel and 12-gauge doors with a #3F vertical finish. The computer enclosure stands 60” high by 28” wide by 27” deep, with a sloped top for cleaning and water run-off.

The stainless-steel TITAN’s lower portion provides ample space to house a computer, printer, UPS, power supply, and additional electronics. An adjustable shelf, attached to uni-strut, is standard and can be used for easy placement of electronics. The rear door (50.95” high by 24.85″ wide) is ideal for accessing the back of the electronics stored inside of the enclosure. The lower front door (27.45” high by 24.85″ wide) and rear door feature lift-off hinges for easy door removal, quarter turn, knob-style compression latches, and dual durometer EPDM gasket to ensure a water-tight seal.

“Over the past few years, the stainless-steel IceStation TITAN has become one of our best selling NEMA 4X enclosures,” exclaimed JT Spangler, President and Owner of ITSENCLOSURES. “The NEMA 4X TITAN’s stainless steel body – with almost no ‘nooks and crannies’ – makes it the perfect computer enclosure for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industry. Available in NEMA 12, 4, and 4X, our IceStation TITAN enclosures are heavy-duty, built to last computer enclosures and are a robust addition to any factory, plant, or distribution facility.”

The large viewing window is available in tempered safety glass or a polycarbonate plastic. The monitor door is hinged at the bottom and folds down to accept up to a 24-inch monitor. An adjustable monitor shelf, with popular VESA mounting patterns, is included for monitor installation. Below the monitor, the NEMA 4X TITAN computer enclosure has a sloped work surface with a 5-degree slant, for a keyboard, mouse, switches, or to simply use as a desk/writing surface.

Heavy-duty, swivel casters are a standard feature. When the enclosure is in its desired location, the front casters lock into place. For areas that require a stationary workstation, stainless steel bolt down legs or stainless steel sanitary legs can be installed in place of the castors.

Customize the NEMA 4X TITAN with accessories, including sliding shelf brackets, 19” wide rack mount rails, waterproof USB ports (for outside connections), a sealed cable entry gland, a power strip, a sub-panel, an industrial keyboard or various thermal management options, such as a heat exchanger, outdoor filtered fan system, or vortex cooling unit.

Proudly ‘Made in the USA,’ ITSENCLOSURES ships its innovative products completely assembled and ready to use upon delivery.

HAVE QUESTIONS?  LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN BEST ASSIST YOU! CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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Industrial computers, monitors, printers, and other electronics generate heat during operation. Inside a protective enclosure, that heat needs to be managed to keep equipment within its recommended operating range.

An enclosure filter fan uses outside air to remove heat while helping limit incoming dust and debris. Choosing a suitable system starts with understanding the surrounding environment, equipment heat load, and required enclosure protection.

How Does an Enclosure Filter Fan Work?

A common configuration uses a filtered intake fan and a passive exhaust outlet. Cooler outside air passes through the filter, circulates around the equipment, and carries heated air out of the enclosure.

The filter captures some airborne particles before they enter the cabinet. Its effectiveness and resistance to airflow depend on the filter media and the contaminants present.

A properly configured intake fan system can also create positive pressure, helping reduce unfiltered air entering through small openings.

Exhaust Fans vs. Passive Exhaust Outlets

A powered enclosure exhaust fan actively pulls air out of the cabinet. A passive exhaust outlet provides an exit path for air moved by an intake fan.

Both require a planned airflow path. Exhaust-only configurations also need an appropriate intake arrangement to avoid drawing unfiltered air through unintended openings.

When Is Filtered Fan Cooling Suitable?

Filtered fans may be appropriate when:

• Outside air is cooler than the required internal enclosure temperature
• Airborne particles can be adequately filtered
• Moisture and chemical exposure are compatible with the system
• The complete installation supports the required enclosure rating

A filtered fan cannot cool equipment below the temperature of the incoming air. High ambient temperatures or conditions that require greater separation from outside air may call for another thermal management method.

Indoor, Outdoor, and Recirculating Fan Options

These fan arrangements serve different purposes. Indoor and outdoor filtered systems exchange air with the surroundings, while recirculating fans move air within the cabinet.

Indoor Enclosure Filter Fans

Indoor filtered fan systems can provide practical cooling where surrounding air conditions are suitable.

Evaluate the dust, lint, grease, and other contaminants present in the facility. Filtration must balance particle capture with enough airflow to remove the equipment’s heat.

An indoor location alone does not establish suitability. Areas exposed to washdowns, corrosive substances, or heavy airborne contamination may require a different approach.

Outdoor Enclosure Filter Fans

An outdoor electronics enclosure with a fan needs components and an installation suitable for the expected weather exposure.

Depending on the system, protective covers may help shield intake and exhaust openings. However, a cover alone does not establish that the complete assembly provides the required environmental protection.

Evaluate rain, windblown dust, humidity, direct sunlight, seasonal temperatures, and access for filter maintenance. Confirm the fan system’s suitability for the enclosure and installation.

Recirculating Fans

A recirculating fan moves existing air inside the enclosure without exchanging it with outside air.

This can help distribute cooled air and reduce localized hot spots around equipment. However, the fan does not remove heat from the enclosure by itself.

Recirculating fans may support another cooling method, but they should not be treated as a substitute for sufficient heat removal.

Comparing Enclosure Fan Options

Selecting and Sizing an Enclosure Fan

Fan size alone does not determine cooling performance. Start with the equipment’s heat output and allowable operating temperature, then evaluate:

• Temperature difference: Highest expected ambient temperature compared with the required internal temperature
• Installed airflow: Airflow available with filters, outlets, and other restrictions in place
• Enclosure layout: Cabinet dimensions, equipment positions, and obstructions
• Environmental protection: Dust, moisture, chemicals, and required NEMA rating
• Power and controls: Fan voltage, continuous operation, or thermostat control
• Maintenance: Filter type, accessibility, and expected contaminant buildup

Complete the Cooling Requirement Worksheet to share your equipment and operating conditions with ITSENCLOSURES.

How Often Should Enclosure Filters Be Changed?

There is no single replacement schedule for every industrial environment. Dusty facilities may require more frequent attention than cleaner locations.

Inspect filters regularly and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning or replacement instructions. Some media can be cleaned, while others require replacement. Address buildup before it significantly restricts airflow, and adjust inspection frequency based on what you find.

Find the Right Thermal Management Solution

Filtered fans can provide effective cooling when the environment and equipment requirements allow outside air to be used. Other applications may need an air conditioner, heat exchanger, vortex cooler, or another solution.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES for help evaluating your enclosure and cooling requirements.

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