Mt. Pleasant, PA (August 18, 2022) – For almost 40 years, ITSENCLOSURES has been engineering heavy-duty, industrial enclosures, like the IceStation brand of products – the leader in computer, printer, and monitor enclosures. ITSENCLOSURES’ monitor enclosure line includes the IO28 monitor enclosure, available in both NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X versions.

The NEMA 4 IO28 enclosure is constructed out of carbon steel (14/12 gauge CRS welded construction), can be deployed outdoors or indoors, and is designed to protect a wide screen monitor (up to 22 inches) and a thin client computer. Ideal for areas with limited space, the enclosure measures 28” high x 26” wide x 8” deep. The durable NEMA 4 rated is offered in blue, gray, or any custom RAL color (for additional charge).

The NEMA 4X IO28 enclosure is fabricated out of type 304 stainless steel (14/12 gauge) and is the perfect fit for the food & beverage and/or pharmaceutical industries. The IO28-4X features a sloped top – for wash down applications – which prevents water from pooling.

Both IO28 enclosure doors feature a padlock staple and a viewing window (19.25” wide X 12.25” high and 22.8″ diagonal) which is available in polycarbonate or tempered safety glass. The enclosure door is opened with two quarter-turn, flathead screwdriver style latches. Key locking latches are also available as an upgrade.

“We continue to be the leader in built-to-last, industrial enclosures. Whether it is indoors or outdoors, monitor enclosures are ideal for deploying computers/monitors in harsh manufacturing environments. Like many of our IceStation products, these enclosures evolved from a need to use electronics in a place where they would not survive unless properly protected,” said JT Spangler, President/Owner of ITSENCLOSURES. “This product has been on the market for many years and continues to sell to new and returning customers.”

Both enclosures include an integrated VESA mount, which eliminates the need to utilize the monitor stand. For access behind the monitor, the VESA bracket tips forward to provide space to house a small form PC and surge protector. For proper airflow, the VESA support has a built-in 100 CFM fan. ITSENCLOSURES offers additional thermal management options, including a closed loop heat exchanger, outdoor filtered fan system, and a vortex cooling unit (requires compressed air).

The IO28 enclosures can be customized to include a fixed or fold down keyboard tray or roll-out keyboard drawer (folds down to offer an ergonomic wrist rest). The monitor enclosures can be mounted to a wall or pole using a universal mounting bracket, bolt-down pedestal, or mobile pedestal. A waterproof, cable entry gland can be installed to route cables into the enclosure.

Mr. Spangled added, “We provide effective enclosures, for any operating environment, to protect vital electronics from dirt, dust, fluids, grease, lint, fibers, and corrosive materials.”

ITSENCLOSURES is always adding more exciting enclosure products to the marketplace. IceStation enclosures are shipped fully assembled and ready to use upon arrival and  Always Made in the USA!

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CONTACT AN ‘ITSENCLOSURES EXPERT’ AT 1-800-423-9911 -or- SEND US AN EMAIL:  INFO@ITSENCLOSURES.COM

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When it comes to maintaining sanitary equipment in the food and beverage industry, operators should be proactive about the overall cleanliness of their facility. In 2011, President Barack Obama signed into law the biggest overhaul of American food safety laws since the 1930s. “The legislation gives the federal Food and Drug Administration the authority to impose new rules to prevent contamination and allows the agency to order, rather than simply suggest, the recall of tainted foods. It also authorizes the creation of a food tracking system to quickly pinpoint the source of outbreaks.”

Food and beverage manufacturing requires very strict cleanliness action plans to prevent catastrophic food problems. Computer systems that operate conveyors and tools/utensils, that are in direct contact with food products, are at high risk for contamination. Food recalls are not a new occurrence, but they can be prevented with well-planned and sanitary practices. Keeping surfaces clean in a plant that produces products for human consumption is extremely imperative.

Being proactive about sanitation can eliminate a potential headache in the future. Building a clean production line starts with sourcing a NEMA 4X computer, printer, electrical, or monitor enclosure that is perfectly designed for wash down applications. Peter Wood, in his article, “Improving Hygiene and Sanitation of Food-Grade Conveyors,“ discussed the importance of NEMA 4X enclosures and equipment, “Food processors require different degrees of sanitation, with meat and dairy processors often relying on the most stringent high pressure wash downs that use caustic cleaning agents that minimize the risk of bacterial growth. To withstand high pressure wash downs, the equipment should feature NEMA 4X- or IP 66-rated electrical enclosures and components while wipe-down sanitation routines demand less water ingress protection.”

What is the most hygienic workstation a manufacturing plant can use?

Choose a NEMA 4X enclosure solution that will not harbor microbial contaminants during the sanitation process. The enclosure should feature a sloped top and clean edges to allow for excessive water runoff. Sanitary leg kits are also a popular feature for ensuring that water does not collect under the enclosure, while providing clearance between the NEMA 4X enclosure and the floor. Other popular features include lift off hinges and a minimum of 304 stainless steel construction (316 stainless steel may also be required). Additional considerations include water temperature and chemical mixes and rinses that are used during the wash down process. These items can impact various components that are installed on the computer enclosure, such as gaskets, locks, and window materials.

If feasible, it is recommended that a manufacturing facility make the necessary upgrades to their production line to keep everything sanitary and safe from harm and contamination. It can be detrimental if one area lacks the cleanliness over another. If installing the correct NEMA 4X enclosure, food contamination or a safety recall can be avoided.

Not sure where to start? Speak with an enclosure expert that has experience deploying electronics in a wash down environment.

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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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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