Modular Enclosure Exterior Components
Frames and Racks consists of metal forms with with pre-drilled holes that are spaced at standardized units of measurement that will accommodate common accessories that can be added to the interior or exterior without drilling or welding. Modular frames can be joined to one another, creating the possibility of multiple configurations, and rails can be added to the frame making it possible to slide panels into and out of the enclosure from the front, rear or side openings.
Exterior components can easily be attached to modular enclosure frames. These components consist of top, back and side covers, bases, panels and doors. Modular frames provide a wide range of possibilities for door placement for easier access and options for modification in the future.
Hoffman top-mount air conditioners replace the solid top of a modular enclosure and require no hole cutting or special kits for installation. They are available with 2200 and 4000 BTU/hour cooling capacities and are equipped with an adjustable thermostat.
Hoffman PROLINE overlapping doors provide a full-width open front for 800, 1000, 1200 and 1600 mm wide frames. The overlapping master/adjacent door design allows unobstructed access.
Hoffman PROLINE window doors can be used on the front or rear of PROLINE frames to provide viewing of electronic equipment. They are designed with either a gray tinted polycarbonate or a clear safety glass window.
Hoffman dress frames provide a decorative trim when a cover or front door is not used. They can be installed on the front or rear of a PROLINE frame as a substitute for a door.
Products
Enclosure Selection Basics
Electrical enclosures are cabinets that are designed to house electrical components. Their main function is to protect the components, as well as to protect the operators from electrical hazards. Enclosures are typically made of solid plastics, fiberglass and metal materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
One of the most important things to consider when selecting an electrical enclosure is the NEMA rating. NEMA stands for National Electrical Manufacturer Association. They have developed a rating system which determines the types of environments an electrical enclosure can be used in.
NEMA 1 and a NEMA 12 enclosures
Both of these enclosures are intended for indoor use only. They are both dust resistant. The NEMA 12 enclosure is rated for damp environments. The NEMA 1 is rated only for dry environments.
NEMA 4 and NEMA 4X enclosures
Both of these enclosures can be used indoors as well as outdoors. They are both dust resistant. They are also water resistant and corrosion resistant. NEMA 4X has an extra layer of corrosion resistance.
NEMA 7 enclosures
This is a more specific type of enclosure that is rated for use in hazardous environments. It is rated to contain an explosion within the enclosure and not cause any sort of external hazard.
Size
When selecting the size of an enclosure, it is important to consider the following: how much space will the electrical components occupy, how much space is needed around each component, is there enough room to run all of the wires and how much space is needed outside of the enclosure?
Temperature
When selecting an enclosure, it is important to consider both the ambient temperature and the temperature that is generated inside of the enclosure. When an enclosure is located outside in direct sunlight, that heat can be transferred inside the enclosure. Also, each component inside of the enclosure generates a certain amount of heat.