Enclosures
We engineer our electrical enclosure boxes to safeguard sensitive equipment, optimize system performance, and ensure maximum uptime, even in the most challenging environments. From rugged wall-mounted units to freestanding enclosures, we carry a full suite of products that exceed stringent NEMA and IP ratings. Whether your equipment requires protection against dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures, Wistex has you covered. Browse our entire selection of electrical enclosures below.
Equipping Enclosures for Any Challenge
When optimizing your electrical enclosures, accessories are far more than just extras. They’re tools that enhance functionality, improve safety, and streamline maintenance on the job site. Wistex is proud to carry over 500+ electrical enclosure accessories, from back panels that provide a secure mounting surface to hole plug assemblies that protect against dust and debris. Check out some popular picks below, or browse our full catalog to find what you’re looking for.
Brands We Carry
Allied Moulded Products
Allied Moulded Products is a leading manufacturer of non-metallic fiberglass reinforced polyester (FRP) electrical boxes or non-metallic enclosures. They design their products for use in a wide range of applications, including industrial, commercial, and residential settings.
Ensto
Ensto is a Finland-based company that provides electrical solutions for various industries, including energy distribution, buildings, and transportation. Their electrical enclosure offerings include thermoplastic, stainless steel, and aluminum options, catering to both indoor and outdoor applications.
Hammond Manufacturing
Hammond Manufacturing is a global supplier of electrical and electronic enclosures, racks, and cabinets. They offer a comprehensive range of enclosure solutions, including wall-mount, floor-mount, and modular designs in materials such as mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Saginaw Control & Engineering
Saginaw Control & Engineering specializes in providing high-quality electrical enclosures and related products for a variety of industries, including water/wastewater, renewable energy, and general manufacturing. Their product line includes carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum enclosures, as well as a wide range of accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Type 4 electrical enclosure, as defined by NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standards, offers a high level of protection against water and dust ingress. These enclosures are designed for both indoor and outdoor use and are watertight, allowing them to withstand various environmental conditions such as rain, sleet, and even hose-directed water. Type 4 enclosures are commonly used in wastewater treatment plants or food and beverage facilities where the enclosure may be subjected to frequent washdowns, ensuring the protection of the electrical components inside.
A NEMA Type 3 electrical enclosure, as specified by NEMA standards, is designed to protect against the ingress of windblown dust and various forms of precipitation, including rain, sleet, and external ice formation. These enclosures are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making them a versatile choice for applications such as construction sites and open-air facilities. However, it is important to note that Type 3 enclosures, unlike Type 4 enclosures, are not necessarily watertight under more extreme conditions, such as exposure to hose-directed water. When selecting between a Type 3 and Type 4 enclosure, consider the specific environmental challenges the enclosure will face to ensure adequate protection for your electrical components.
NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) is a widely recognized organization in the U.S. that sets standards for electrical equipment. NEMA enclosure ratings provide guidelines on where electrical panels and systems can be safely used based on their level of protection against factors like dust and water ingress. The ratings range from NEMA 1 to NEMA 13, with higher numbers indicating greater protection. For example, NEMA 1 enclosures are suitable for indoor use and protect against unintended contact with the enclosed equipment, while NEMA 4 enclosures are intended for outdoor use and offer better sealing and resistance against ice formation.
You want your electrical components to be well-protected against dust,
solid objects, and moisture, right? Of course! That's where IP enclosure
ratings come in.
IP ratings, created by the International Electrotechnical Commission
(IEC), consist of the letters "IP" followed by two digits. The first
digit (0-6) indicates the level of protection against solid objects and
dust, while the second digit (0-9) represents protection against water
or moisture. Higher numbers signify greater protection. For example, an
IP67 rating means the enclosure is completely dustproof (6) and can
withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes (7).
While IP ratings are recognized internationally, NEMA (National
Electrical Manufacturers Association) ratings are more commonly used in
the United States. Both systems provide guidance on the suitable
applications for electrical enclosures based on their ability to protect
against various environmental factors. However, NEMA ratings take into
account additional factors beyond dust and moisture protection, such as
corrosion resistance, oil resistance, and whether the enclosure is
suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
In short, while IP ratings focus specifically on dust and moisture
protection, NEMA ratings provide a more comprehensive assessment of an
enclosure's ability to withstand various environmental conditions.
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) is an independent product safety testing and certification agency. The UL standards for electrical enclosures, UL50 and UL50E, are similar to the NEMA 250 standards, with only minor differences. However, UL-rated enclosures undergo thorough testing and certification by an independent third-party before being released to the market. This rigorous process often translates to a higher level of trust and confidence in UL listed enclosures, as they have been verified to meet the required safety standards. While the testing and certification process can be costly and time-consuming, it helps ensure the quality and reliability of the electrical enclosures.