Using a computer outdoors exposes sensitive electronics to conditions they typically aren’t designed to withstand, including rain, dust, humidity, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures. An appropriately rated outdoor computer enclosure can help protect the equipment while providing the environmental protection and thermal management required for reliable operation.

When deploying computer enclosures in outdoor environments, the installation will present a unique set of challenges. The risk of equipment failure requires computer equipment to withstand solar heat, rain, snow, sleet, and extreme temperatures. In addition to environmental concerns, one must consider the technical aspects involved in installing electronics outdoors. To be effective, the internal assembly must be designed to withstand harsh conditions and offer the necessary security to protect equipment.

What Should You Consider Before Installing a Computer Outdoors?

Before installing a computer or other sensitive electronics outdoors, consider temperature extremes, environmental exposure, the required NEMA rating, and how power and data cables will enter the enclosure. Each of these factors can affect the enclosure’s ability to protect the equipment inside.

1. Temperature Extremes and Outdoor Computer Cooling
   If the proper heating and cooling are not incorporated into the system, computer enclosures – deployed in extreme warm or cold environments – will not fare well. Natural convection cooling is not an option for all-weather, outdoor enclosures. 

A closed loop cooling or internal heating system is vital for keeping outside elements away from the internal electronics, while maintaining the appropriate operating temperatures. Heat exchangers, vortex cooling units, and outdoor rated air conditioners are all feasible closed loop cooling systems. 

The appropriate solution depends on factors such as the equipment’s heat load, allowable operating temperature, ambient outdoor temperature, and enclosure specifications.

Heat build-up from direct sunlight may require insulation inside of the enclosure. Prior to installing the cabinet, consult an enclosure expert for a thermal management recommendation.

2. Protecting Outdoor Computers From Rain, Moisture, Dust, and Dirt
   Electronics and liquids do not mix! Water can negatively affect the exterior and interior of an enclosure. If the correct enclosure is not specified, liquid can enter the enclosure through inferior gaskets or door openings. 

Additionally, differences in ambient air temperatures can cause condensation to form on the inside of the enclosure. Condensation may form as the temperature cools at night or when the equipment is powered down during off hours. Moisture will most likely lead to corrosion that will affect the lifespan of the electronics. 

Temperature changes and humidity should therefore be considered alongside direct exposure to rain or snow when planning an outdoor computer installation.

In addition, unwanted dust and dirt – within an enclosure – drastically increases the chance that electronics will overheat or cause a failure.

3. Choosing the Right NEMA Rating for an Outdoor Computer Enclosure
   If utilizing an enclosure in demanding environments, a NEMA 4 enclosure should be selected. NEMA 4 computer enclosures (powder coated steel) protect against most weather conditions (rain, sleet, snow), and damaging dirt and dust. 

If the enclosure will be exposed to corrosive materials (salt air, heavy washdown, harsh chemicals), the protection of a stainless steel NEMA 4X cabinet may be necessary.

The enclosure’s NEMA rating should be selected based on the specific environmental conditions and exposures present at the installation location. 

In addition, a NEMA 4X enclosure will absorb and conduct heat more efficiently than other materials – stainless steel enclosures are especially advantageous in a direct sunlight application. NEMA 4/4X enclosures feature heavy-duty gasket, hinges, and latches to eliminate points of entry for water, oil, dirt, and dust.

4. Maintaining Protected Cable Access Outdoors

How the enclosure will receive power is often an oversight when installing a NEMA 4 or 4X enclosure. Because these enclosures almost never feature any type of split panels or general openings for cable pass through, a sealed cable entry gland – that will maintain the NEMA rating – is a must! 

NEMA 4X rated cable glands will prevent dust, dirt, and water from entering the enclosure through even the smallest hole. Failure to pay attention to cable access will jeopardize the enclosure system.

Any modification or cable entry should be designed so it does not compromise the environmental protection required for the application.

Planning an Outdoor Computer Enclosure Installation

When planning a waterproof, computer enclosure deployment, failing to take these considerations into account will lead to unwanted, and often costly, problems. 

If you need to install a computer outdoors, ITSENCLOSURES can help you evaluate the equipment, environment, NEMA rating, and thermal management requirements to identify an appropriate enclosure solution.

Explore our industrial computer enclosures or contact ITSENCLOSURES for help choosing the right enclosure and thermal management for your equipment and environment.

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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.

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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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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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What is the process for selecting a NEMA rated industrial enclosure for a manufacturing environment? Purchasing an enclosure from a ‘big-name’ supplier does not mean that the enclosure is the best fit for the equipment or the end users that will be using the enclosure system. From a functionality standpoint, the enclosure’s worth may far exceed the original purchase price. If the electronics are difficult to install or if there is a considerable amount of installation time, then the purchase price of the enclosure alone is not reflective of the overall ’real cost’ of the installation.

The following steps will help manufacturers or integrators determine the ‘real cost’ of doing business with an enclosure supplier and help assist in the project timeline.

1. Hidden Costs

Buyer beware! Every company, small or large, is looking for ways to save a few dollars. Upon receiving the initial quote(s), consider the total cost of ownership for the enclosure system. If the industrial enclosure does not come assembled, recognize the amount of time and energy that will be required to build each individual system. Additionally, consider the time needed to install the wide-ranging electronics. Also, understand what accessories are standard versus add-ons/upcharges that will increase the overall enclosure price.

2. Customization

Prior to shipping, custom doors and knockouts (for push buttons) provided by the enclosure manufacturer will save the end user or system integrator a significant amount of time during large deployments. Pre-cut panel monitor doors – built specifically for an HMI or industrial touchscreen – eliminate the need to make the cutouts on site, which saves time and money. Also, consider printer access doors, bolt-down legs, sliding shelves, power supplies, locks/hinges, and rack mount rails. These are popular customization features that will enhance the enclosure functionality.

3. Think Ahead

Avoid choosing the industrial enclosure that is the lowest price on the marketplace. The old saying still rings true, “you get what you pay for.” The cheapest product is probably the lowest price for a reason. It is critical to think at least 5-10 years into the future. Will the enclosure withstand the installation environment (harsh as it may be) and will it accommodate the everchanging sizes and styles of electronics in the future? Thermal management should also be considered, if the electronics, being housed in the enclosure, produce a large amount of heat.

4. Knowledgeable Sales Reps/Engineers

The sales department is, most likely, the first contact a system integrator will have with an enclosure supplier. A sales rep should be friendly and willing to help design the best solution for your application. If you need help configuring a system, the rep should ask general questions to narrow down the enclosure request. For highly customized projects, request access from the engineering department. Choosing an industrial enclosure manufacturer that is willing to answer your questions intelligently will bear the most fruit.

5. Warranty

Inquire with the industrial enclosure company on the warranty. Ask a very simple question: theoretically, how long should the products last? Also, what is the process for submitting a claim if something would need to be serviced or replaced altogether? Companies that offer a limited warranty or no warranty at all may already know that the product is going to fail. Invest in an industrial enclosure solution that is built to withstand a rugged manufacturing environment.

When it comes to a manufacturing or factory setting, many options exist for industrial enclosures. Before purchasing equipment, consult with other knowledgeable business partners or associates that have experience in deploying industrial enclosures. Always consider variables like cost, materials, construction, and warranty before a purchasing choice is made for the deployment. The lead time for delivery should also be clearly conveyed from the first quote to the purchase order.

Do not make the mistake of specifying a product that will perform well below expectations.

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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A computer enclosure for a hazardous environment must be selected based on more than its strength or ability to resist dust and water. The area’s hazard classification, equipment requirements, enclosure construction, and protection method all matter.

In some applications, a properly designed purged and pressurized enclosure system may allow certain standard electronics to be used in a classified hazardous location. However, the complete system must meet the requirements for that location.

Understanding Hazardous Location Computer Enclosures

A hazardous location computer enclosure is part of a system designed to protect electronic equipment in an area where flammable gases, vapors, combustible dust, or fibers may create a fire or explosion risk.

These areas are different from general harsh industrial environments.

A dusty manufacturing floor, for example, may require a ruggedized computer enclosure to protect against airborne contaminants. But if the dust is combustible and the area is classified as hazardous, additional safety requirements apply.

A NEMA 4 or NEMA 4X rating alone does not mean an enclosure is approved for a classified hazardous location.

The complete installation must be suitable for the specific hazards present.

Hazardous-Area Classifications

Before selecting an industrial enclosure, the facility’s documented hazardous-area classification must be reviewed.

Under the Class and Division system, hazardous locations are commonly grouped by the type of material present.

Class I: Flammable Gases and Vapors

Class I locations involve flammable gases or vapors that may be present in the air.

These conditions may occur in certain chemical processing, oil and gas, or other industrial operations.

Class II: Combustible Dust

Class II locations involve combustible dust that may create an ignition hazard.

These conditions may occur in some grain handling, food processing, material handling, and manufacturing applications.

Class III: Ignitable Fibers and Flyings

Class III locations involve easily ignitable fibers or flyings.

Certain textile, wood-processing, and similar industrial operations may present these conditions.

Hazardous locations are also divided according to how likely hazardous conditions are to be present. Depending on the classification system, the facility may use Division or Zone designations.

The equipment and protection method must match the applicable classification, material group, temperature requirements, and other installation conditions.

How Does a Purged Computer Enclosure Work?

A purged computer enclosure uses a purge-and-pressurization system to help prevent hazardous materials from entering the protected space.

The system uses a suitable protective gas, often clean instrument air, to purge the enclosure and maintain the required internal pressure.

In an approved system, this protection method may allow certain electronics that are not individually rated for the surrounding hazardous location to be installed inside the enclosure.

However, the enclosure alone does not provide this protection. The complete system may include:

• A suitable enclosure
• A properly selected purge-and-pressurization control system
• A reliable supply of protective gas
• Pressure monitoring and required safety controls
• Suitable electrical connections and accessories
• Equipment and installation methods approved for the application

The correct system depends on the area’s classification and applicable safety requirements.

Intrinsically Safe Computers vs. Purged Enclosures

An intrinsically safe computer is designed and approved so that its electrical and thermal energy cannot cause ignition under the conditions covered by its approval.

A purged and pressurized enclosure uses a different protection method. It relies on an approved system that maintains protective conditions inside the enclosure.

Both approaches may be used in certain hazardous locations, but they are not interchangeable.

The right choice depends on the area’s classification, the equipment being installed, and the requirements of the complete installation.

Can a Ruggedized Computer Enclosure Be Used in a Hazardous Location?

A ruggedized enclosure is designed to protect electronics from demanding physical or environmental conditions, such as dust, dirt, water, and impacts.

That does not automatically make it suitable for a classified hazardous location.

For example, an industrial PC enclosure designed for a dusty environment may help protect equipment from ordinary airborne particles. But an area containing combustible dust may require a specific hazardous-location protection method.

Before selecting an enclosure, confirm whether the area is classified as hazardous and what requirements apply.

4 Considerations When Selecting a Purged Computer Enclosure

1. Enclosure Construction and Materials

The enclosure must support the requirements of the purge system and the surrounding environment.

Depending on the application, steel or stainless steel construction may be considered.

NEMA 4 enclosures can provide protection against dust and hose-directed water, while NEMA 4X enclosures add corrosion resistance.

Stainless steel may be a practical choice where moisture, washdowns, or corrosive conditions are present.

The enclosure’s seals, doors, latches, cable entries, and other features must also be suitable for the complete purge-and-pressurization system.

A NEMA rating should not be used as a substitute for hazardous-location approval.

2. Keyboards, Touchscreens, and Input Devices

Operators may need to use keyboards, pointing devices, monitors, or touchscreens in the hazardous area.

These devices require careful selection because the equipment used outside the protected enclosure may need its own hazardous-location approval.

Depending on the application, intrinsically safe or other suitably rated input devices may be required.

Connections, barriers, wiring, and installation methods must also be evaluated as part of the complete system.

3. Temperature Control and Thermal Management

Computers and other electronics generate heat while operating.

A purged enclosure may also require thermal management to keep equipment within its recommended operating temperature range.

In some applications, a vortex cooling system may be considered. Other solutions may be appropriate depending on the equipment, surrounding conditions, and system requirements.

Cooling and purge functions are not interchangeable. A cooling device should not be assumed to provide the pressure control or safety functions required by a purge-and-pressurization system.

4. Maintenance and Equipment Access

Maintenance is an important part of operating a purged computer enclosure.

Opening the enclosure can affect the protective conditions inside it. Personnel must follow the approved system’s operating and maintenance procedures before opening the enclosure, servicing equipment, or restoring power.

Depending on the system and location, these procedures may include verifying area conditions, isolating power, checking protective pressure, and completing the required purge cycle before restarting equipment.

The specific steps must come from the approved system documentation and the facility’s safety procedures.

Information to Gather Before Selecting an Enclosure

Before discussing enclosure options, gather the information needed to evaluate the application.

Key details include:

• The documented hazardous-area classification
• The gases, vapors, dusts, or fibers present
• The equipment being installed
• Equipment dimensions and heat output
• Required keyboards, monitors, and other input devices
• Ambient temperature and environmental conditions
• Moisture, washdown, and corrosion exposure
• Power, wiring, and cable-entry requirements
• Applicable approvals and facility safety requirements

These details help determine whether a purge-and-pressurization system or another approved protection method may be suitable.

Find the Right Protection for Your Application

Installing electronics in a hazardous location requires careful planning. The enclosure, equipment, protection method, and installation must all be suited to the conditions present.

ITSENCLOSURES can help review your equipment, environmental needs, and available enclosure configurations. For classified hazardous locations, the complete solution must also be reviewed and approved by qualified personnel responsible for the installation.

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

The post Computer Enclosures for Hazardous Environments: What to Consider appeared first on ITSENCLOSURES.