A Guide to Selecting Electrical Enclosures, Cabinets, and 19” Rack Cabinets
Scope and Application
This guide aims to assist in the selection of electrical enclosures, cabinets, and 19” rack cabinets. Following these recommendations will help enhance the lifespan of enclosures and their internal components.
This guide applies to empty enclosures for low-voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies in accordance with IEC/EN 62208, where the rated voltage does not exceed 1000V AC (frequencies up to 1000Hz) or 1500V DC. For design and verification of assemblies, refer to IEC/EN 61439.
The rise of Industry 4.0 has led to a hybrid environment where traditional DIN rail-mounted enclosures now often require EIA-310-D 19” rack mounting. These racks offer flexibility for various applications, including IT equipment, AV systems, electrical storage, and battery management. Our 19” rack cabinets conform to IP55 IK10 or IP66 IK10 standards and are fully certified. Learn more about electrical enclosure selection here.
Choosing the Right Electrical Enclosure
Selecting an electrical enclosure involves several key considerations:
1. Determine the IP Rating
Choosing the appropriate Ingress Protection (IP) rating ensures that the enclosure is suited for its environment.
IP ratings, defined in IEC/EN/AS 60529, indicate protection against:
- Solid foreign objects
- Water ingress
- Mechanical impact
✅ Our single-door enclosures: IP66 IK10
✅ Our double-door enclosures: IP55 IK10
✅ Hygienic enclosures for food & beverage: IP69K
Ventilation must also be considered to maintain the overall IP rating. Our fans and filters have IP54 protection, with optional IP55 high-performance filters.
2. Select the Material
Materials should be chosen based on strength, corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and UV protection:
- Powder-coated galvanized steel – for industrial use
- 304L & 316L stainless steel – for extreme environments
- Marine-grade aluminum – for high corrosion resistance
For chemical exposure or saltwater environments, always check a chemical compatibility resistance table.
3. Determine the Size
The enclosure size should accommodate components while maintaining airflow, electrical clearances, and maintenance access:
- Wall-mounted enclosures: 300H x 200W x 150D mm up to 1200H x 1200W x 400D mm
- Floor-standing cabinets: up to 2020H x 1200W x 800D mm
For 19” rack cabinets, the height is measured in U (RU), where 1U = 44.45mm:
- Standard range: 4U to 42U
- Double-bay cabinets: 2 x 42U
- Weight capacity: up to 840kg for 42U heavy-duty racks
4. Thermal Protection
Effective thermal management is essential to maintain internal temperature and airflow. Our climate-controlled solutions include:
- Fans & filters
- Heat exchangers
- Air conditioners
- Anti-condensation heaters
For battery storage, ventilation is crucial to prevent hazardous gas build-up and ensure longevity.
5. Accessories
We offer a range of accessories to enhance enclosure functionality:
- Inner doors – for added protection
- DIN rail kits – easy installation
- Transparent & vented doors – for better visibility and airflow
- Rain hoods – prevents accumulation of liquids and debris
- Solar panel brackets – easy fitting without drilling
- Adjustable shelves – storage flexibility
6. Mounting Options
Mounting should align with plant layout and accessibility.
We offer:
- Wall-mounting brackets
- Pole-mounting kits
- Base mounting solutions
7. Security & Safety
Security is a key factor in protecting both equipment and personnel.
Locking options include:
- Standard locks for industrial settings
- Padlockable swing handles
- Electronic locking systems for advanced security
For public installations, enclosures should include recessed doors to prevent tampering.
⚠️ Always consult local regulations before installation! Licensed electrical contractors must ensure compliance with IEC 61439, AS/NZ 3000, AS/NZS 3100, and Electrical Safety Act 2002.
Conclusion
Selecting the right electrical enclosure involves evaluating IP rating, material, size, thermal management, mounting, security, and accessories. Our range of IP-rated, corrosion-resistant enclosures and 19” rack cabinets are designed to meet the demands of Industry 4.0 applications.
