Enclosure Lifting
Enclosure lifting is a vital aspect of safely transporting and installing enclosures, particularly large or heavy ones like bayed floor standing enclosures. This process often involves specialized lifting devices and mounting hardware designed to handle the weight and dimensions of the enclosure securely. Safe lifting practices are essential to prevent damage to the enclosure and ensure the safety of personnel involved in the installation.
Lifting devices for enclosures can range from simple handles and eye bolts to more complex lifting systems, depending on the size and weight of the enclosure. For larger enclosures, such as those used for industrial equipment, a lifting frame or platform may be required. These frames are typically made of sturdy materials like stainless steel and are designed to evenly distribute the weight of the enclosure for safe handling.
More Information about Enclosure Lifting
Mounting accessories and kits often include features that facilitate the lifting process. These might include pre-installed lifting points or cutouts on the enclosure panels, which allow for easy attachment of lifting devices. The material and design of these accessories are crucial to ensure they can support the weight and stress of lifting without compromising the enclosure's integrity.
For safe transportation and installation, the lifting equipment must be suitable for the specific type of enclosure and its intended application. This includes considering factors like the enclosure's material, frame, doors, and any additional components or panels. Customized lifting solutions may be required for enclosures with unique dimensions or installation needs.
Moreover, the location and environment where the enclosure will be installed can influence the choice of lifting equipment. For instance, in outdoor applications or harsh environments, corrosion-resistant finishes and materials are essential to withstand the elements.
Maintaining NEMA 4 Rating When Making Enclosure Penetrations
Cutouts are very common when modifying enclosures for push buttons, indication lights, conduit entries or mounting hardware. Cutting into an enclosure runs the risk of eliminating the protective nature of the NEMA rated attributes. Proper steps must be followed in order to preserve the NEMA rating of an enclosure.
Devices mounted to the enclosure must have the same NEMA rating as the enclosure. This means that if the devices are installed to the manufacturer's specifications, they will be able to maintain the NEMA rating of the enclosure.
Water tight conduit hubs must be used when running wire through a cutout in an enclosure. There are many different types of conduit hubs that are used to secure conduit to an enclosure. However, only certain conduit hubs are rated for a watertight seal. By using water tight hubs, the NEMA rating of the enclosure is maintained.
Bonded washers are necessary when mounting hardware to an enclosure. If standard mounting hardware is used, the NEMA rating of the enclosure will no longer be maintained. Bonded washers have rubber gaskets that make a watertight seal around the drilled hole. It is also important to make sure the material used for the bonded washer matches the material of the enclosure. Stainless steel enclosures require stainless steel bonded washers.