Five Tips for Saving Money on your Harsh Environment ...

Five Tips for Saving Money on your Harsh Environment Enclosures

Enclosure selection in rugged settings must balance cost, durability, and functionality. According to a Google search on "Five Tips for Saving Money on your Harsh Environment Enclosures," experts recommend using standardized enclosures, considering less expensive materials, and accurately assessing required ratings to cut costs.

Purchasing a harsh environment enclosure can be a tricky business. The components need to be protected but it is also important not to overkill the protection and waste costs. Often, the enclosure is not considered until the last minute in any design, leading to a quick decision that often negates many cost savings in other areas. Therefore, we have developed five ways to save money on your harsh environment enclosure purchase that will also allow you to be better prepared and best of all, save money.

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1. Use a Standard Enclosure

In the rush to enclose the product, the quick response is for an exact match to engineering specs. However, choosing a standard off-the-shelf enclosure can significantly reduce lead time and costs. Remember that using a slightly larger enclosure does not impact the functioning of the internal components, so buying a box an inch larger could save money compared to custom solutions. This is particularly true when buying plastic enclosures with significant tooling costs.

2. Consider Using Less Expensive Materials

Materials like steel or aluminum are more expensive than plastic. For NEMA/IP rated enclosures in the United States, steel is often preferred, whereas plastics are more popular worldwide due to their lower cost and adequate strength. If the application does not require robust physical impact resistance, plastic offers a lower cost and more corrosion-resistant option.

3. Evaluate the Need for Specific Ratings

Assess whether the unit needs a high rating like UL or can operate effectively with NEMA ratings alone. For example, Bud’s NEMA/IP rated enclosure line includes an ABS plastic version without UL ratings, which often suffices for most applications. Similarly, consider using a box with a lower protection level, like opting for a NEMA 1 instead of a NEMA 12. Specific internal components needing EMI/RFI shielding can be protected individually rather than shielding the entire enclosure.

4. Review Included Accessories

Ensure price comparisons are accurate by reviewing which accessories are included. Some manufacturers offer turnkey enclosures with mounting panels and provisions for wall or equipment mounting. Considering these features can save significant costs and ensure all components function harmoniously.

5. Opt for Manufacturer-Performed Modifications

If modifications are required, consider having them done at the manufacturer. The manufacturer’s expertise in drilling or punching reduces risks of cracking or chipping the box. This saves time, potential damage, and provides a turnkey product with faster installation and rapid up-time.

Nothing is more frustrating than overpaying for a quality harsh environment enclosure. By following these steps, you can ensure that your project remains within budget and schedules are not delayed. Simple solutions can address complex problems efficiently.

For additional insights into purchasing the right enclosures, visit our guide on How to Choose tpm printing? A Complete Guide.