Electrical Utility Enclosures
The aim of electrical companies is to manage and distribute electricity. For that reason, they require some very reliable and even critical infrastructure. The housing for this infrastructure is a critical part of the system as well. You can think of an electrical utility enclosure first and foremost as a box. It is actually more like a house that forms the lowest level of critical infrastructure because it contains and keeps secure that part of the overall electrical system package.
When it comes to the design of electrical utility enclosures, they are basically built with two main functions in mind: protection and performance. For the most part, they keep the insides dry and the contents safe. They do this in a couple of key ways: with watertight seals and by diverting water that does get in safely away from the wiring and components. Utility enclosures must undergo real-life simulations of some incredibly extreme environmental conditions to make absolutely sure that they can succeed in even the most miserable parts of the country where electricity still flows.
These enclosures have access in mind. They have been designed to provide for easy entry for maintenance, inspection, repairs or any other authorized reason. The hinged door, removable panel, and lockable latch are well-coordinated. Their ease of use and the convenience they afford are directly in the service of safety.
Products
FAQs
Are pull boxes and junction boxes durable enough to be considered commercial utility enclosures?
Yes, pull boxes and junction boxes are durable enough to be considered commercial utility enclosures, as they are designed to protect and organize electrical connections in commercial and industrial environments.
What are the features and specifications of polymer concrete in the construction of utility enclosures?
Polymer concrete utility enclosures are characterized by their high strength, chemical and water resistance, UV and thermal stability, electrical insulation, impact resistance, lightweight nature, and low maintenance requirements.
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.