L-Box Enclosure Accessories
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. Wall-mount cabinets 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.
Hoffman Type 1 L-BOX wall-mount cabinets are low-profile and vertically oriented. They are versatile and can be used in public settings to mount, protect and store network equipment, patch panels and connections. The L-shaped, hinged door provides full access on two sides to installed equipment, while fixed rack angles accommodate varying equipment sizes. The cabinets are made of 14 gauge mild steel and include a keylocking latch for added security.
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.