Selecting the proper enclosure might seem like a casual task. Actually, it is a critical decision that can impact project costs, timelines, and the ultimate success of your product or application.
The success or failure of a project can hinge on whether there is adequate protection from an enclosure for its environment and application. On the other hand, over specifying the level of protection adds unnecessary cost. For example, if your application requires protection against factory washdowns, then you don’t need an enclosure rated for immersion, which may be more expensive. As an enclosure can make up a significant portion of your bill of materials, the cost can be significant.
Challenges arise when selecting a NEMA enclosure box because of the ambiguity of terms such as “waterproof,” “sealed,” or “dust tight.” Does the term “waterproof” mean the enclosure can withstand full immersion in a liquid, or does it refer to rain? Does the term “sealed” refer to an airtight enclosure or one that guards against larger debris?
NEMA ratings give precise definition to the level of protection.
Bud’s broad line includes models across the full range NEMA electrical enclosure ratings. NEMA 4 and NEMA 4x are the most common and trusted ratings for outdoor and factory washdown locations. For a junction box, a basic NEMA 1 enclosure may be sufficient. NEMA 6P indicates that the enclosure is temporarily submersible.
A NEMA rating, or a rating standard determined by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, is primarily applied in the United States while also being widely recognized in Canada and Mexico. It classifies or defines the level of protection provided by an electrical enclosure against environmental factors such as dust, water, or other contaminants. This protection extends beyond the equipment to the personnel that interact with or handle the electronic devices.
NEMA ratings are expressed using numerical codes that provide specific information related to the enclosure’s environmental protection capabilities. These codes relate to factors involved in the degree of protection the enclosure provides to an electronic device or component against exposure or contamination by a solid or liquid. The NEMA standard also considers the level of protection provided against corrosion.
To receive a NEMA rating, an enclosure is subjected to rigorous testing, which must be done in a certified lab setting such as by UL. Tests vary depending on the requested rating but are always very specific and detailed.
The NEMA ratings are similar to but different from the IP ratings defined by the European Electrotechnical Commission. While the ratings are comparable, they are not equivalent.
Often, NEMA rated enclosures are referenced by multinational companies operating in various regions or use both a NEMA enclosure and an IP rating.
We invite you to take advantage of our expertise as a NEMA rated enclosure manufacturer to help guide you to a decision that aligns with your application requirements. We’re committed to helping you make the smartest enclosure choices in a timely fashion, to keep electrical components protected and project timeframes on track.
