When storing vital servers and network equipment, rack enclosures (NEMA rated or vented) are a must for large companies and IT departments. A vented rack enclosure provides functionality, proper arrangement, passive cooling, and, above all, security. In the beginning of the purchasing process, a customer or end-user should ask various questions to find the perfect vented enclosure solution.

Questions to Find the Best Vented Rack Enclosures

1. How much equipment will be stored?
Prior to installing electronics, it is crucial to assess the quantity of equipment that will be placed within the enclosure. This evaluation is essential in determining the overall size of the ventilated enclosure or the total rack mount space (each U representing a height of 1.75 inches) required. In order to accommodate a significant amount of network or electronic equipment, it is possible to combine and secure multiple enclosures together.

2. What type of cable management is necessary?
If a large amount of cables (wires or cords) are needed within the vented enclosure, effective cable management is required for organizing the cables and maintaining proper connectivity. With differing accessories, cables may be positioned vertically or horizontally. To facilitate the entry of cables, split panels, metal or plastic conduit, sleeves, or small openings should be provided. Additionally, these items help prevent cables from getting pinched or cut when closing the enclosure door.

3. Does the equipment need a lock?
A vented enclosure, along with internal electronics, may require security measures, namely being locked and kept private. When opting for an enclosure which needs to be safeguarded, it is advisable to select one equipped with key locking latches on all doors and side panels. This allows for convenient accessibility, while ensuring the protection of the enclosed equipment.

4. What type of add-ons are needed?
When buying a vented server or network enclosure, it’s important to think about useful accessories. These include air circulating fans (often available in single, double, or quadruple options), rack mountable surge protectors, power cords, drawers, shelves (both stationary and sliding), filler panels, levelers, bolt down legs, and industrial grade castors. These accessories help create an organized and easily manageable environment within the vented enclosure.

Carefully consider each question, or your vented enclosure choice may not be the ideal solution. Before purchasing an enclosure, always create a list of everything that is needed. The correct enclosure is will keep electronics safe and secure for many years in the future. This will save money and prevent unnecessary downtime.

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

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Mt. Pleasant, PA (December 2, 2022) – With almost four decades of expertise in the industrial enclosure market, ITSENCLOSURES is pleased to showcase one of their popular rack enclosures: the NEMA 12 IceStation IR72-12. This heavy-duty rack enclosure is designed to enclose various electronics and rack mount equipment. The IR72 enclosure measures 72” high x 24” wide x 38” deep and is constructed out of heavy-duty 12-gauge steel with 16-gauge steel side panels. In order to bolt together multiple units, the enclosure’s side panels (sealed with gasket) can be removed.

For rack mounting applications, the IR72 comes with 19-inch wide adjustable, mounting rails; customize with square punched or tapped rails. The IR72 has 38U of interior rack mount space and the rails attach to the rack enclosure’s built in uni-strut. The rack mounts rails are installed in the front and rear of the cabinet and feature an adjustable depth to allow proper equipment positioning. Dust-tight split panels are located on the top and bottom of the enclosure to run cables, cords, and wires of varying sizes.

The IR72’s front and rear doors can be locked – for security – with key locking 3-point latches. The full view window (on the front door) is ideal for equipment monitoring and offered in tempered safety glass or Lexan polycarbonate. The front and rear doors feature reversible hinges to increase placement flexibility.

JT Spangler, Owner of ITSENCLOSURES, discusses ITSENCLOSURES’ industrial enclosures, “Our goal has always been to supply our customers with tough, protective enclosures for any harsh environment. Our NEMA 12 enclosures will protect your essential electronics from dust, dirt, grease, lint, fibers, and splashing fluids. Each and every day, we continue to design, tweak, and fabricate innovative enclosure solutions as electronics, computers, printers and monitors evolve. ‘Forever and a day’ is the standard that we have set for ourselves since the very early days of ITSENCLOSURES. This will never change.”

Easily transport the rack mount enclosure around the factory floor with the included industrial grade casters. The front casters are lockable and the rear casters swivel. Lifting eyes, mounted on the top of the rack enclosure, can also be used to move the enclosure. For those companies that require the enclosure to be stationary, anti-tip legs or bolt down legs are available.

Thermal management options include a 200 CFM filtered fan system (2 complete systems can be installed easily), which will keep air flowing throughout the enclosure. The fan and exhaust will create a positive pressure, which eliminates damaging dust and dirt from entering the enclosure. Other thermal management options include different sizes of air conditioners, a vortex cooling unit, or a NEMA 12 heat exchanger.

ITSENCLOSURES designs and builds the most durable rack enclosures on the market and ships all of their innovative products completely assembled and ready to use upon delivery.

For more information on ITSENCLOSURES and their large array of industrial products, visit www.ITSENCLOSURES.com, send an email to info@itsenclosures.com, or call 1-800-423-9911 to talk to an ITSENCLOSURES sales representative.

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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!

# # # #

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

Understanding NEMA 4X Enclosure Cooling 

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

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

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

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

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

3 Common Cooling Methods for NEMA 4X Enclosures

Heat Exchanger

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

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

Vortex Cooler

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

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

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

Air Conditioners

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

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

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

How Do NEMA 4X Enclosure Cooling Methods Compare?

What to Know Before Choosing a Cooling System

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

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

Before selecting a cooling method, gather information about:

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

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

Choosing the Right Cooling Solution for a NEMA 4X Enclosure

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

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

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Protecting Electronics in Humid Environments

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

How Does Condensation Affect Electronics Inside an Enclosure?

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

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

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

How Can Moisture Get Inside a Computer Enclosure?

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

Common moisture entry points can include:

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

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

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

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

Managing Heat and Humidity Inside an Enclosure 

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

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

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

Cooling Systems for Humid Environments

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

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

Choosing an Enclosure for a Humid Environment 

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

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

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

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

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

Find the Right Protection For Your Equipment 

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

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

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

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

3 Common Industrial Enclosure Materials

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

1. Mild Steel Enclosures

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

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

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

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

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

2. Stainless Steel Enclosures

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

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

Stainless steel may be suitable when:

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

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

3. Non-Metallic Enclosures

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

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

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

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

Mild Steel vs. Stainless Steel Enclosures

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

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

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

Weight and Mounting Considerations

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

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

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

How Does NEMA Rating Affect Material Selection?

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

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

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

Choosing the Right Enclosure Material

Before comparing options, gather these details:

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

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

Find the Right Protection for Your Equipment

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

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

The post Types of Enclosure Materials appeared first on ITSENCLOSURES.

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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