What Is an Enclosure Gasket and Why Is It Important?

Gaskets are used on computer and electrical enclosures to create a seal between the enclosure body and its doors. Strong, heavy-duty enclosure gasket is critical to the protection of sensitive electronics housed inside of the enclosure. 

Gasket is primarily used to prevent the external (often harsh) environment from entering an industrial enclosure. Some of the most harmful elements can be dust, dirt, lint, grease, and water.

The gasket is an important part of the enclosure’s overall sealing system and should be properly selected, installed, and maintained for the conditions where the enclosure will operate.

How Do You Choose the Right Enclosure Gasket?

To support proper performance, it is important to select gasket material designed and rated for the installation environment.

Important factors can include operating temperature, indoor or outdoor use, water exposure, chemicals, UV exposure, and other environmental conditions.

According to Peter Taraborelli, in his blog, Best Rubber Gasket Materials for Weather Resistance, “The location of a gasket is of utmost importance, especially if it is going to be exposed to the elements. For this reason, it’s imperative to choose top quality weather resistant materials to enhance the longevity and performance of outdoor gaskets. There are several important factors to think about in regard to weather resistance including sunlight, temperature, ozone, and inclement weather conditions (rain, hail, sleet, snow, etc.).”

Types of Enclosure Gaskets

The three main types of gasket applied to computer enclosures are strip (most widely used gasket), foam in place, and die cut. 

Manufacturers can select the material width and thickness for each gasket application, as well as adhesive type, for a simple direct application to an enclosure. Enclosure gasket can be made of a variety of materials which offer varying temperature ranges, chemical resistance, and other important characteristics.

Strip, Foam-in-Place, and Die-Cut Gaskets

Strip gaskets, foam-in-place gaskets, and die-cut gaskets describe different gasket forms or application methods. The appropriate option depends on the enclosure design, sealing requirements, and application.

Common Enclosure Gasket Materials

Common enclosure gasket materials include polyurethane, neoprene, and silicone. Each material offers different temperature capabilities and environmental resistance, making the appropriate choice dependent on the enclosure’s operating conditions.

How Do Polyurethane, Neoprene, and Silicone Gaskets Compare?

*Temperature ranges and application suitability should be confirmed for the specific gasket material and enclosure application.

Inspecting and Maintaining Enclosure Gaskets

Regular enclosure gasket maintenance will ensure optimal performance! 

Even gasket material that is properly specified for an application should be inspected regularly for signs of damage or deterioration. During inspection, look for conditions such as tears, gouges, cracking, compression, deterioration, or areas where the gasket no longer creates the intended seal.

 In some cases, it may be more beneficial to replace the entire door vs. just the gasket. This will ensure that UL and NEMA ratings are still maintained. Gaskets perform a critical job in keeping particulate matter outside of the enclosure. 

Selecting the Right Gasket for an Industrial Enclosure

The right enclosure gasket depends on more than the material alone. Temperature, moisture, chemicals, UV exposure, enclosure design, and required environmental protection should all be considered when selecting an enclosure for a specific application. Regular inspection can also help identify gasket damage before the enclosure’s seal is compromised.

Need help selecting an enclosure for a demanding industrial environment? Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES to discuss your application.

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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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Industrial computer enclosures help protect sensitive electronics from dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants. When an enclosure uses a filtered fan system or an air conditioner with a filter, regular filter maintenance is an important part of keeping the cooling system working effectively.

Over time, filters collect airborne particles. If too much material builds up, airflow can become restricted and heat may collect inside the enclosure. This can affect the performance of computers, monitors, printers, and other electronics.

Knowing when to replace your computer enclosure filter helps maintain proper airflow, support effective cooling, and reduce the risk of equipment downtime.

How Often Should You Replace an Enclosure Filter?

There is no single replacement schedule that works for every industrial enclosure.

A computer enclosure in a dusty manufacturing facility may need more frequent filter maintenance than one in a cleaner environment. Grease, oil, lint, fibers, and seasonal changes can also affect how quickly a filter becomes clogged.

Start with the filter manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations and adjust your inspection schedule based on the conditions in your facility.

When an enclosure is first installed, check the filter frequently to see how quickly contaminants build up. This helps establish a maintenance schedule that fits your environment.

4 Conditions That Call for an Enclosure Filter Check

1. The Filter Is Clogged or Damaged

A filter packed with dust, dirt, or other debris can restrict airflow through the enclosure’s cooling system.

Some enclosure fan filters are designed to be cleaned and reused. Others must be replaced when they become dirty.

If your filter is reusable, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Certain aluminum or mesh filters may be washable, but cleaning methods vary by material and design.

Replace the filter when it is damaged, worn, or no longer provides effective filtration after cleaning.

Never reinstall a damaged filter or assume that every filter can be washed and reused.

2. Airflow Has Decreased

A clogged filter makes it harder for a fan to move air through the cooling system.

When airflow decreases, the system may struggle to remove heat generated by the equipment inside.

Signs that warrant inspection include:

• Visible dust or debris buildup on the filter
• Reduced airflow at the fan or exhaust
• Higher internal enclosure temperatures
• Cooling equipment running more often than expected
• Filter material that is blocked, damaged, or heavily coated

Reduced airflow can have several causes, so check the fan, filter, and other components rather than assuming the filter is the only problem.

3. Grease or Oil Has Built Up

Dust and dirt are not the only contaminants that affect enclosure filters.

Manufacturing environments may contain airborne grease or oil that collects on the filter media. These substances can trap additional particles and restrict airflow.

In some cases, cleaning may not restore the filter’s performance.

If grease or oil buildup cannot be removed using the manufacturer’s approved cleaning method, replace the filter.

Facilities with these conditions may need a more frequent inspection and replacement schedule.

4. Seasonal or Operating Conditions Have Changed

The conditions surrounding an industrial enclosure may change throughout the year.

During warmer months, open facility doors may allow more dust, pollen, and outdoor debris into the work area. Changes in production activity, ventilation, or nearby processes can also affect the amount of airborne material reaching the filter.

A maintenance schedule that works during one season may not be enough during another.

Inspect the filter when conditions change and adjust the schedule based on the buildup you find. A seasonal change alone does not mean the filter needs replacement.

Can You Clean an Enclosure Filter Instead of Replacing It?

That depends on the filter.

Some reusable filters can be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Others use filter media that must be replaced once it becomes clogged.

Before cleaning a filter, confirm:

• Whether the filter is reusable
• Which cleaning methods are approved
• Whether the filter must be fully dry before installation
• Whether the material shows signs of damage or wear

If a filter cannot be cleaned effectively, replace it with the correct filter for the system.

Using the right replacement filter helps maintain the intended airflow and filtration performance.

Building an Enclosure Filter Maintenance Schedule

A preventive maintenance schedule helps identify filter buildup before it causes a cooling problem.

The best schedule reflects your facility’s actual conditions rather than a fixed replacement interval.

Start with these steps:

1. Review the manufacturer’s guidance. Check the inspection, cleaning, and replacement instructions for your filter and cooling equipment.
2. Inspect frequently after installation. Watch how quickly dust, grease, or other contaminants collect.
3. Track filter condition and airflow. Note when filters need cleaning or replacement and whether enclosure temperatures change.
4. Adjust for changing conditions. Increase inspection frequency during dusty production periods or seasonal changes.
5. Include filter checks in routine maintenance. Make enclosure filters part of the facility’s preventive maintenance process.

The goal is to clean or replace filters when needed without allowing buildup to affect the equipment inside the enclosure.

Supporting Reliable Enclosure Cooling

A filtered fan system helps remove heat while limiting airborne debris entering with the outside air. A clogged filter can reduce that airflow and allow heat to build up around the electronics.

Regular enclosure filter maintenance supports effective thermal management. However, the enclosure, cooling system, ambient temperature, equipment heat load, and required NEMA rating must also suit the application.

Find the Right Protection for Your Equipment

Keeping enclosure filters clean is an important part of protecting industrial electronics. ITSENCLOSURES can help you evaluate enclosure cooling options and determine an appropriate configuration for your equipment and operating conditions.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES to discuss your application.

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Computers, monitors, printers, servers, and other electronics generate heat during operation. Inside an industrial computer enclosure, that heat needs to be managed to support reliable performance and reduce the risk of heat-related downtime.

A filtered fan system can provide practical cooling when the surrounding air and required enclosure protection allow it. Before selecting a system, consider the equipment heat load, ambient temperature, airborne contaminants, and operating environment.

How Does a Filtered Fan System Work?

A filtered fan system draws outside air through an enclosure filter, helping limit airborne dust and debris while circulating cooler air around the equipment. Heated air then leaves through an exhaust opening.

A properly configured intake fan system can also create positive pressure inside the enclosure. This helps reduce unfiltered air entering through small openings.

Fan capacity, filter resistance, equipment layout, and surrounding conditions all affect cooling performance.

When Is a Filtered Fan System the Right Choice?

Filtered fans may be suitable when the surrounding air is cooler than the required internal enclosure temperature and can be adequately filtered for the application.

They also require an installation that supports the enclosure’s required level of environmental protection. High ambient temperatures, washdowns, moisture, or corrosive contaminants may call for another thermal management approach.

Confirm the equipment manufacturer’s operating limits before choosing a cooling system. A fan moves outside air through the enclosure; it does not refrigerate that air.

4 Tips for Using a Filtered Fan System

1. Plan Around Heat-Generating Equipment

Identify which components produce the most heat and consider their ventilation requirements when arranging equipment inside the enclosure.

Leave enough space for air to circulate around computers, printers, servers, and other components. Avoid layouts that block equipment vents or trap warm air away from the exhaust.

2. Position the Fan and Exhaust for Effective Airflow

A common configuration places the filtered intake fan lower on the enclosure and the exhaust higher, allowing incoming air to move through the cabinet and carry heat away.

Position equipment and cables so they do not obstruct this airflow. The appropriate fan and exhaust locations will depend on the enclosure design, equipment layout, and operating conditions.

3. Consider Thermostat Control

Some enclosure fans run continuously, while others operate through a thermostat.

A thermostat switches the fan on when the enclosure reaches a set temperature, reducing unnecessary operation when cooling is not needed. Select the control approach and temperature settings based on the equipment’s operating limits and the application’s cooling requirements.

4. Match the Enclosure Filter to the Environment

Choose filter media based on the dust and debris present around the enclosure. Finer filtration can capture smaller particles, but it can also increase airflow resistance.

Evaluate the fan and filter together to ensure the system provides sufficient airflow with the selected media installed.

Inspect filters regularly and clean or replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Dust buildup can restrict airflow and reduce cooling performance, so maintenance frequency should reflect conditions in the facility.

Find the Right Cooling Solution for Your Equipment

Effective enclosure cooling starts with understanding the equipment and the conditions around it. ITSENCLOSURES can help you evaluate your heat load, operating environment, and protection requirements to identify suitable enclosure and thermal management options.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES to discuss your application.

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While performing an Internet image search, computer enclosures – from various companies – may look very similar. However, computer enclosures are not created equal!

In a factory or manufacturing environment, a high-quality, industrial computer enclosure will protect vital electronic components better than subpar enclosure products. When a customer makes a computer enclosure decision based solely on the lowest price, they fail to consider the electronics which will be stored inside of the enclosure. Electrical components housed inside of a dependable, protective computer enclosure will have a longer life and will continue to work, even in the harshest of environments.

3 Aspects of a Quality Computer Enclosure:

Enclosure Construction

Material construction is one of the most important factors in determining the quality of a computer enclosure. For a durable product, the gauge or thickness of the steel – used to build the body of the computer enclosure – should be around 14 gauge (5/64” thick). The higher number for a gauge of steel equals a thinner material. According to the website Sciencing, “Standard sheet steel comes in various thicknesses which are classified by steel gauge. Each gauge has a tolerance range to allow for small variances in thickness.” For example, a cabinet that uses 18-gauge (1/80” thick) or 20-gauge steel (3/80” thick) is the equivalent material of a standard filing cabinet. This ‘thinner’ material will not have the necessary ruggedness to withstand an industrial environment for an extended period.

Enclosure Hardware

The type, style, and quality of computer enclosure hardware used on the cabinet is also of importance. Durable computer enclosure products will use heavy-duty or stainless-steel hardware for the doors, drawers, hinges, and/or latches. Many lower priced enclosure options utilize carbon steel hardware that can rust over time, making it difficult to open and probably a little noisy. Stainless steel hardware will last ‘forever and a day’ and is corrosion resistant, which means it can withstand a washdown. Heavy-duty plastic hardware can also be used for the enclosure’s hardware.

Enclosure Finish

Compared to a traditional “wet spray” paint finish, heavy-duty steel enclosures with a powder coat finish are less likely to scratch. The process of powder coating requires a clean surface that is sprayed with electrostatically charged polyester powder, and then finished off with a curing in an oven. Powder coating is also advantageous if using the computer enclosure outdoors, as it is more UV resistant when compared to liquid paints. The blog, ‘What Types of Powder Coating Are There?’ explains the durability of powder coating, “The [powder coating] process allows people to coat various metal parts and pieces with an extra layer of protection that is as durable as it is attractive. Though often confused with a typical paint job, powder coating offers a much more robust level of security for your metal parts.

There is more to selecting the correct computer enclosure than just an inexpensive price. Research an enclosure company which will provide a superior product in a reasonable timeframe. Communication is key to building an enclosure that will suit the needs of your manufacturing process. The old saying holds true: “you get what you pay for.”

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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If the proper planning is executed from the beginning of the process, finding the best computer enclosure does not have to be overwhelming. Setting aside time for adequate research is the best course of action and will pay off in the long run. Keep in mind: not every enclosure company has the same product for the same price, and appropriate product comparisons should be made and reviewed.

What steps should be completed to find the perfect solution?

6 Steps to Specifying the Best Computer Enclosure for the Job:

1. Define Requirements

Meet with the team members involved on the enclosure expansion to clearly define the computer enclosure requirements. Important items to consider, include the NEMA rating, power supply, locks, hinges, window choices, thermal management, environmental temperature extremes, space requirements to house electronics (computer, monitor, printer, UPS, etc.), and the overall durability of the enclosure material. If every team member is on the same page at the beginning, there will be no surprises when the equipment arrives on site.

2. Research

Complete the necessary homework! Every enclosure company is going to make claims that they offer the highest quality computer enclosures on the market. However, if you dig a little deeper, you will find that the materials and hardware used – to build some enclosures – are flimsy. In the end, experience speaks for itself. To make sure you are purchasing the best product, submit the clearly defined project requirements to enclosure providers for a recommendation on their best product. Also, do not overlook the length of the warranty being offered. This could help down the road, if something unexpected occurs.

3. Choose the Best Supplier

When possible, evaluate a potential computer enclosure in person, or inquire if an evaluation unit is available. Most companies are willing to send one unit for a hands-on review, in anticipation of selling multiple units after the evaluation period is over. Companies with heavy duty units are always eager to send over a sample unit, because it will likely impress the end user. If an evaluation unit is not available, ask the enclosure supplier for a list of referrals of similar companies that they have worked with on previous projects.

4. Pricing

Once it is determined what (product) and who (enclosure supplier) has the best solution for the project, obtain a competitive price quote. Too often, customers ‘ballpark’ their budget far too low in the beginning and do not perform the correct evaluation of the products available on the market. Poor initial budgets could equate to sacrificing enclosure quality, which may end up costing a company more money over the course of time.

5. Create a Timeline

From electronics to accessories, understand the lead time for all the items required to properly execute a successful computer enclosure plan. Enclosure suppliers always have a handful of best-selling products ‘in stock,’ which means the lead time should only be a few days. However, if a specialized project requires a custom-made enclosure, then the lead time can be extensive. At times, a customer may need an enclosure solution in two weeks, but in order to fabricate a new product, the lead time could take up to 2 months. This will create headaches for everyone involved in the process. Failing to prepare – in a timely manner – may result in expedite fees to meet the company’s “go live” date.

6. Execute

If all of the ducks are in a row, executing the project will prove to be the easiest part! Be sure to assign a project manager to keep everything moving on the right track. In the end, if the plan was implemented properly, then the project will be a huge success. Also, save the enclosure supplier’s number or email, because you may want to order more units in the future!

Poor planning may result in poor product choices. In order to get the right product for the job, always ask questions (and more questions) during the process. How much will this cost? Will the chosen enclosure be best for my environment? What is the lead time? How will this ship? Can this product have thermal management? Can a printer fit? How will power enter the enclosure? These are just a few of the queries to ponder.

Detailed research is always the best course of action. When it comes to purchasing new computer enclosures, it is always good to have a strategy.

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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The term “custom” enclosure often gets a poor reputation for being more expensive than standard units and having excessive lead times. However, this is not always the case. When researching the best industrial computer enclosure for the job, it is critical to choose an enclosure provider which utilizes off-the-shelf items to customize a solution that meets the users’ needs.

Finding the right enclosure for a computer enclosure project is more extensive than just simply picking out a steel or stainless steel ‘box.’ Enclosures are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials with numerous options for accessories, mounting, connectivity, and climate control. End users and system integrators can simplify the process by choosing a customized solution that ships ready to be used upon delivery.

In order to meet the individual requirements of users, enclosure companies usually stock popular models and valuable accessories. Therefore, the company will be able to “build” an enclosure tailored to the end user’s specific needs more efficiently, than if it was constructed ‘from-scratch.’

Custom Factors to Consider:

Custom Colors

Sometimes the standard color offerings (gray, white, black, or even blue) will not suit the needs of a customer. Custom colors to fit a company’s branding scheme, to match other equipment, or for safety reasons may be required for certain applications. It is necessary for an enclosure company to provide specialized color(s) choices (Pantone or equivalent RAL color) on a small or large scale.

Custom Doors

Custom doors, ranging from dust-free printer access doors to rear extended doors to panel mountable doors for touchscreens, are crucial to the efficiency of the enclosure solution. Finding a means to access the electronics inside the pc enclosure is just as important as protecting the electronics from outside dirt, grease and other harmful contaminants. The enclosure can be rendered useless if there is not an easy way to access printer tickets or the ability to use a touchscreen.

Thermal Management

It goes without saying, but all industrial and manufacturing areas are different. It is beneficial to work with an enclosure specialist that has a thorough understanding of specifying the correct heating or cooling (or both) for a computer enclosure. The ability to tailor an off-the-shelf enclosure solution with a filtered fan system, air conditioner, vortex cooling unit, heat exchanger, or various sizes of heaters – specific to the environment the system will be installed – is crucial.

Ask the pc enclosure provider if they have a worksheet to fill out in order to find the best thermal management solution.

Additional Accessories

Although it may seem like minor details compared to the points already discussed, accessories like a foldable mousepad, sliding shelf brackets, mobile or bolt down pedestals (painted steel or stainless), cable entry glands, and power supplies can make a big difference. Most enclosure company websites will list out complimentary accessories below the product, so that an end user can select what will work best for the application. Enclosure specialists will work with customers to find the most appropriate accessories for the specified installation.

Never let the word “custom” affect a computer enclosure solution decision. Custom can simply mean that the end user can pick & choose how the industrial computer enclosure will look and function in a working environment. Homework is essential. As always, do not let price steer you in the wrong direction. In the end, durability and longevity should always be the most important factors when deciding on a brand new enclosure solution.

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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It’s not just a simple steel box.

Enclosure manufacturers always strive to quickly ship the ideal cabinet to satisfy customers’ requests. The value added through flexibility and modifications can be very appealing if integrators work with a supplier that “can do it all.” When searching online for heavy-duty pc enclosures, integrators and project engineers often investigate outsourcing certain components of a computer workplace to help reduce costs and shorten delivery time. When deploying a new workstation or upgrading an existing enclosure system, designers must determine what type of computer enclosure will perform the best, and plan how components and wiring will come together to complete the project.

Best Practices for Enclosure Customization

1. Cutouts

Prior to an enclosure being populated with functional electronics, holes must be cut out and connections must be mounted. It is common for factories and panel shops to knockout or punch holes for a perceived ‘quicker’ turnaround and cost. This may lead to inaccuracy, especially if the factory or panel shop does not have the correct size of punch or bit. Finding an industrial enclosure company that has the skill and ability to modify an enclosure – before shipping – may eliminate hours of in-house measuring and cutting by hand. Enclosure companies make cutouts and custom modifications daily, and do so with great precision. Popular modifications include cable glands, liquid-tight conduit, and cutouts for knobs and push buttons.

2. Wiring

Wiring electrical outlets, fan systems, thermostats, air conditioners, and heaters can be time consuming for the inexperienced. Large jobs may require a completely turnkey solution with necessary wiring and cabling before deploying the computer enclosure in the field. If an integrator is purchasing a sizeable quantity of enclosures and drop shipping them directly to their customer, the enclosure solution must be ‘plug & play’ and ready to use upon delivery. Ask your enclosure manufacturers if outlets, thermal management and other electrical components are installed at the manufacturing facility before shipping. Properly sourced manpower will greatly reduce the final installation time on big projects.

3. Mounting

Internal components such as brackets, DIN rail, mounting track, unistrut, rack channel, and sub panels are vital for mounting switches and controls. If these items are pre-installed prior to delivery from the manufacturer, it will greatly reduce assembly time for your customer and will help them reach a ‘go live’ date. Again, coordination with the enclosure manufacturer will ensure that everything is installed properly and professionally. Manufacturers perform modification tasks regularly and employ proper installation procedures!

When it comes to industrial pc enclosures, many system integrators, engineers and buyers only consider the purchase price and not the entire package. An enclosure company’s reputation and experience can make all the difference! Over time, a great business relationship can be created between the integrator and manufacturer. Leveraging an enclosure manufacturers’ experience can help eliminate some of the ‘heavy lifting’ on behalf of the integrator and end user/customer. It is always best to research solutions on the market and discuss the project with enclosure experts.

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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Meet the NEMA 12 IceStation TITAN computer enclosure by ITSENCLOSURES! Measuring at 60-inches high, 30-inches wide, and 27-inches deep, the 14 gauge steel (with 12 gauge doors) TITAN pc enclosure is an all-in-one industrial workstation that will protect your PC and electronics from dust, dirt, grease, contaminants, and light splashing fluids.

Out of the box, the TITAN (IS603027-12) computer enclosure includes:

• 24-inch tempered safety glass viewing window (polycarbonate window also available)
• Adjustable monitor shelf with VESA mount
• Integrated keyboard drawer with ergonomic wrist-rest and sloped work surface
• Key locking latches
• Industrial casters and gasketed split panel for cable entry
• Available in Blue, Gray, Black, or any Custom RAL color of your choice (additional charge)!

These are all very convenient features, but what additional options are available to create the ‘Perfect TITAN’ computer enclosure for a manufacturing environment?

Accessories to Consider:  

1. Thermal Management – A filtered fan system, air conditioner, heat exchanger or vortex cooling unit can be added to the IceStation TITAN. If unsure which system best suits your manufacturing needs, please consult an ITSENCLOSURES representative for a cooling recommendation.
2. Bolt Down Legs – All TITANs come equipped with industrial casters that enable the enclosure to be mobile. The front casters are lockable for positioning the enclosure in its desired location. If the TITAN needs to be anchored into place, bolt down legs can easily replace the casters.
3. Surge Protector/Power Supply – Every TITAN needs power! Adding a 6 outlet surge protector to the inside of the TITAN will enable a user to plug in various electronics, including printers, monitors and computers. Plus, add a simple 10 foot power supply cord to easily reach an outlet.
4. External Shelf – Add a folding or stationary fixed shelf to either side of the TITAN for paperwork, file folders, an extra work space, or any other vital accessory needed to ‘get the job done’ on a daily basis. The shelf’s weight capacity is approximately 75 pounds.
5. Printer Access Door – Installing a printer inside of the TITAN? Consider adding a hinged printer door. The printer access doors will allow easy access to printouts/labels, without having to open the enclosure door. The location of the desired printer door can be installed based on the height and size of the printer.
6. Sliding Shelf Brackets – The TITAN includes a fixed, adjustable shelf for electronics. Consider adding sliding shelf brackets for easy access to the printer, computer or other various electronics that will reside in the TITAN. The sliding shelf is especially helpful when accessing a printer to change media/labels.

We can talk about the benefits of the TITAN all day, but sometimes it is just better to watch an informative product  video.

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

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If your company is looking to purchase a heavy-duty enclosure for a computer, monitor, or printer, what questions should be pondered when searching for the right solution? There are various items to consider before placing a purchase order. For example, what is the temperature range of the enclosure’s environment? Will dust and dirt be in abundance? Will a chemical washdown occur daily?

These are just some of the harmful dangers to consider. Computer enclosure protection is a must when it comes to installing electronics in dirty, dusty, and wet locations.

Here are various questions/situations to consider:

1. What NEMA rating is required?
   Will your enclosure be in direct contact with splashing water or oil? Will a large amount of dirt and dust be blowing around the enclosure? Will you ever need to wash the enclosure down with a hose? The NEMA Rating should be one of the first things to consider. A NEMA 12 enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, and splashing fluids. A NEMA 4 enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, hose directed water, and corrosive materials. A NEMA 4X enclosure will protect against dust, dirt, hose directed fluids, and corrosive materials.

2. What will be mounted inside of the enclosure?
   If installing a computer, monitor, and printer, will the computer enclosure be able to fit all three, and still have room for cables and other essential accessories? Will the enclosure be used to protect rack mountable servers? Before looking at enclosures online or in a catalog, it is always pertinent to have the make/model of your PC, monitor, servers, or printer on hand. Obviously, if the electronics simply do not fit, then the enclosure is impractical. Monitor sizes and PC sizes are always changing, so an enclosure that worked at a warehouse five years ago may not work properly now. It is always best to double check the sizes of all electronics that you will be installing inside of the computer enclosure.
3. Where will the enclosure be installed?
   Will the enclosure be installed on a wall, bolted to the floor, or have castors to enable it to roll around a factory floor? Most castors have a locking mechanism, which will make the enclosure both mobile and stationary for added versatility. If the enclosure is a desktop enclosure, then it can simply be situated or bolted to a table or desk or even under a desk. The placement of the computer enclosure is important to consider, because it might live in the same space for many years.
4. What add-on enclosure accessories are necessary?
   Will a 10-foot power supply or a 6-outlet surge protector be needed? Does the enclosure require lockable doors to keep everything secure? Will the enclosure benefit from having a window in the door, or will a solid door be advantageous? If the enclosure is NEMA 4 or NEMA 4X, will it need a waterproof, dust-free/dirt-free cable entry gland, in order to run cables into the enclosure? Will a keyboard tray or dust-tight keyboard drawer be an essential item? Will the enclosure need a hinged printer door? Do you need a waterproof keyboard or mouse? There are many accessories that will improve the overall effectiveness of an computer enclosure.
5. Is thermal management needed?
   If the enclosure is in an indoor environment, will a filtered fan system be necessary for air circulation or an air conditioner to protect against the heat and humidity? If stored outdoors, will winter temperatures require a heater and summer temperatures require an air conditioner? Thermal management should be discussed before the enclosure is installed in the field, because an enclosed peripheral may overheat under certain circumstances and, therefore, cease to work.

When researching a new computer nclosure for your company, it is best to make a comprehensive checklist and guarantee that everything is well-thought-out before deciding on the solution. Doing preliminary homework will cause less stress down the road. Also, make sure that the enclosure will be shipped completely assembled and ready to use upon arrival. This will save time and money!

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