What should you consider when choosing a location for an outdoor enclosure?
Short answer
When choosing a location for an outdoor enclosure, evaluate the particular environmental conditions alongside the enclosure's specifications. The main factors are exposure to direct sunlight and UV radiation, operating temperatures, and water ingress in the form of condensation, precipitation and frost. Some sites also need protection against plant or mould growth, which can compromise the integrity of plastic enclosures, and areas where hazardous or harsh chemicals are present require shielding, such as rugged materials like glass reinforced polyester (GRP) in corrosive environments. The DIN VDE 0100-ff standards provide a good backbone, covering the key requirements for electronic components with nominal voltages up to 1000 V.
When selecting a location for an outdoor enclosure, the key is to evaluate the particular environmental conditions of the site alongside the enclosure’s specifications. Outdoor installations can be particularly challenging, as a number of environmental factors affect the performance of electrical boxes.
A good backbone is provided by the DIN VDE 0100-ff standards, which discuss the key requirements for electronic components with nominal voltages up to 1000 V. Alongside these, the factors to consider when installing enclosures outdoors are:
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exposure to direct sunlight, and therefore to UV radiation
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operating temperatures
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water ingress in the form of condensation, precipitation and frost
Specific applications may also require protection against plant and mould growth, which could compromise the integrity and functionality of plastic enclosures. Where electrical systems have to be installed in areas in which hazardous or harsh chemicals are present, shielding mechanisms are necessary. For example, the use of rugged materials may be required, such as glass reinforced polyester (GRP) in corrosive environments. Detailed assembly and installation recommendations are available here: https://www.spelsberg.co.uk/service/technical-information/technical-information/assembly-and-installation-notes/
To address a broad range of external conditions, we developed the GEOS range of cabinets, enclosures and accessories, which simplifies the decision about where to install an electrical box. They are made of strong, durable materials that can withstand tough weather conditions, including UV exposure, high temperatures, corrosion, wind and precipitation. They also feature an innovative seal system, known as ‘Drain Protect’, which prevents the ingress of moisture, dust and dirt. As a result, it is possible to install the equipment in the location that addresses the end user’s needs, rather than simply where it is least exposed to harsh conditions.
More on our GEOS range of outdoor enclosures: https://www.spelsberg.com/outdoor-enclosure/
To determine which outdoor enclosure can best address your needs, you can use our online configurator: https://configurator.spelsberg.com/
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