Feature

What you need to check before specifying an outdoor enclosure

If you’re a design engineer or an operator in charge of vital outdoor technology which is dependent on automation and IT equipment (such as servers, UPS batteries, PLCs, and inverter drives), then you’ll need to ensure that all this equipment is sufficiently protected. This protection will be provided by an enclosure, but it’s important to select one that suits both your application and its location.

02/08/2023 10:41:32

It will, of course, need to be sealed to prevent moisture and dust ingress. But it may also need to be robust enough to withstand shocks and vibration (such as from passing trains or lorries) or damage from vandals or thieves. In addition, it might need to be ergonomically designed for easy user access, and electromagnetic capability (EMC) could be a further consideration.

We’re seeing a rising demand for external enclosures, thanks to major rail projects such as HS2, as well as 5G mobile roll-out and increased electric vehicle charging stations on forecourts. But Rittal has identified a general lack of awareness of the possible enclosure options, and which one would be the best solution for an application.

Read the full article in DPA's August issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.