Steel vs. Plastic: Which is Best for Industrial Enclosures?
Choosing the right enclosure for your industrial equipment isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Enclosures are essential to protect equipment. But it’s not just about what needs to go inside them, it is the environment around them that will be the most important factor in choosing which will be the best material for that specific purpose and location.
Both plastic and metal enclosures offer unique benefits. It is essential to understand their characteristics to understand where they fit needs best. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Location: Are they needed near the ocean? High humidity? Direct sunlight? Dusty? These factors can significantly impact not only how it will perform but also the lifespan of the enclosure.
- Extreme Temperatures: Will your equipment be outside and face extreme heat or cold?
- Electrical Needs: Does it sit near electricity, and may it need to protect against electromagnetic interference?
- Budget: What’s your price range? Consider both short-term and long-term costs.
- Weight: Do you need something lightweight or robust?
- Aesthetics: How important is the look of the enclosure? Does it need to have a polished finish to look professional in commercial settings?
Understanding these factors will help you decide when and where steel or plastic is best for the industrial enclosures needed. Here is a very quick and concise guide of all the pros and cons of plastic versus steel enclosures:
Durability and Strength
- Steel Enclosures: Known for their toughness. They can handle harsh conditions, impacts, and wear and tear. Steel is less likely to warp or crack compared to plastic.
- Plastic Enclosures: More susceptible to damage over time, especially from UV light or extreme temperatures.
IP66 Enclosure Ratings: Protection Standards
- IP66 Enclosure: This rating means it’s dust-tight and can withstand powerful water jets. Perfect for outdoor use!
- Steel Enclosures: Often achieve higher IP ratings due to their solid construction. They provide better protection against dust and moisture.
- Plastic Enclosures: Some can reach decent IP ratings, but they usually lack the same impact resistance.
Thermal Management
- Heat Dissipation: Steel conducts heat better than plastic. This helps prevent overheating of electrical components, which is crucial in high-demand applications.
- Plastic Enclosures: Can trap heat, leading to performance issues.
Environmental Factors
The environment where you’ll use the enclosure is crucial:
- Plastic Enclosures:
- Excellent for areas with high moisture or chemicals.
- Resist corrosion and won’t rust, making them ideal for outdoor use or chemical-heavy environments.
- Metal Enclosures:
- Options like galvanized steel or stainless steel are strong against the elements.
- Better suited for high-impact areas or locations with extreme temperatures.
Cost Considerations
- Initial Cost: Plastic enclosures are often cheaper upfront, making them attractive for tight budgets.
- Long-Term Savings: Steel enclosures may cost more initially but last longer. This means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs over time.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Professional Look: Steel enclosures can be finished with coatings that enhance their appearance. They look good in commercial spaces and can be painted to match branding.
- Colour Options: Plastic enclosures come in various colours but often lack that polished look.
Conclusion: Choose Built Boards for Steel Enclosures
Steel industrial enclosures offer durability, superior protection, and long-term savings.
For businesses needing reliable industrial enclosure solutions, Built Boards has you covered with high-quality industrial steel electrical enclosures. For big installs where a large board is needed but where both function and style are equally important, Built Board’s industrial electrical enclosures will work hard but be all but invisible.
Explore our range today at Built Boards and protect your equipment with our expertly engineered steel solutions!