When off-the-shelf panels don’t measure up

This often means a standard, off-the-shelf enclosure simply doesn't measure up, so some degree of customisation will be necessary. Wayne Adams offers some advice for those about to embark on a project involving enclosure customisation.

The retrofitting of control systems into existing applications, the necessity to deal with exponentially increasing amounts of data, or the need to implement a greater degree of control over existing applications; these are just some of the reasons why it may be necessary to fit more equipment into an existing space, and it will inevitably require the commissioning of non-standard panels and cabinets.

While an off-the-shelf enclosure will work well in an area where there is sufficient room to accommodate it, in others, such as a cramped marine environment, the bulkheads may be smaller than the average enclosure or the enclosure may even have to fit into curved or angled spaces.

Specifying a panel that may require top-to-bottom customisation is not the everyday task of most systems installation engineers; so, if you have never encountered the problem, what are the main qualities to look for when you seek a supplier with the necessary capabilities? 

The very first thing is to ensure the manufacturer has the capacity to make the enclosure you need in the timeframe required. It is also better to manage one, rather than several suppliers, so look for one that can offer all the processes that you are likely to need.

Remember to include finishing and protective requirements as well as manufacturing in the original remit. Some suppliers can offer weatherproofing, IP65 protection, powder coating and custom paint services as well as the ability to fabricate enclosures from a variety of materials.

A broad range of capabilities offered by your supplier will ensure that, even if the specifications change, you won’t have to restart your search. 

The supplier’s experience in making custom enclosures is vital. As well as understanding its own manufacturing process, the potential supplier should also have a broader engineering knowledge to understand the final application for which the enclosure is intended. This understanding helps to set and define specifications correctly and should ensure that the enclosure is fit for purpose without the need for retrospective customisation. 

A thorough understanding of the target application will also help the supplier incorporate any non-standard modifications that are application specific. If the industry has specific, possibly very strictly applied regulations - the oil and gas industry is a good example - the enclosure can then be built to these standards from the ground up. This will make gaining certification easier, give a more reliable end product and cost less. 

When choosing a supplier it is always preferable to choose one with a design facility. Getting the supplier involved as early as possible should ensure the final design is tailored directly to the process that will be used to fabricate the end product.

Some manufacturers may have sufficient experience and the necessary skills to become an integral part of the client’s design team, or even possess the expertise required to develop the product completely from the initial specifications. Involving the manufacturer from the beginning will speed the process, reduce the risk of rework and ensure a straightforward installation. 

The final thing to look for in a supplier is support. Even the best-engineered enclosures may need a degree of support from the manufacturer during installation. The manufacturer’s experience will ensure that the installation proceeds as painlessly as possible. Ask the manufacturer what support it offers and request actual examples of times and costs saved.

Choosing the correct suppler for a custom enclosure need not be difficult if you follow these easy steps. Making the correct choice initially will give you the best possible chance of getting the right enclosure for your application on time, on budget and with fewer installation headaches.

Wayne Adams is with Adams Enclosures