
Enclosure Racks & Rack Mounting

Network communication is the backbone of many industrial automation processes. Networks rapidly and securely transfer data between devices, PLCs and computers through servers, routers, modems and cables. It is important to have a safe and secure place to house IT equipment which also allows for easy access and provides an efficient use of space.
Network cabinets and racks are designed to organize and protect IT equipment in an industrial environment. The three main design options to consider are: rack enclosures, wall-mount racks and open frame racks.
Rack enclosures or rack cabinets are designed for heavy, high wattage equipment that usually runs at hotter temperatures. The enclosures have vented front and rear doors that provides ample airflow. The removable side panels and front and rear doors are attached to adjustable mounting rails and lock for added security. These type of enclosures are a popular choice for server rooms and data centers.
Wall-mount racks can be attached to the wall to save floor space or rolling casters can be added to create a movable floor-standing rack. These racks are usually smaller and can’t support as much weight as rack enclosures.
Open frame racks do not have sides or doors and are usually used for applications that don’t need to control airflow or provide security. They are ideal for equipment with high-density cabling providing easy access and open space for cable management.
Enclosure rack mounting equipment that includes rack angles (L-style and U-style), bracket mounts, center uprights, rack guides, transformer rails and grip strips allows for full customization and construction of open racks for network applications.
Products
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.