The Aluminum Difference

While many different attributes will affect an enclosure’s performance, selecting the correct enclosure material is a key element in ensuring a long enclosure life. The following tips will assist in your determining the correct enclosure material for the application at hand.

Environmental Considerations

From airborne debris and temperature variations to ultraviolet (UV) rays, environmental elements can have a significant impact on how an enclosure will perform over years of operation. For example, a fiberglass enclosure exposed to direct sunlight for several years will likely experience fiberbloom, whereas a mild steel enclosure will exhibit rust in wet or corrosive environments. Also remember that stainless steel is not “stain-free,” meaning it is not immune to rust. For example, in an area where salt spray is present, mild and stainless steel enclosures are susceptible to rust to varying degrees while Aluminum enclosures will not rust.

If the enclosure will be located in a high-traffic environment, such as one containing forklifts or other heavy equipment or frequent user access, high impact resistance with several latching options to provide easier access and security to the enclosed components is desirable – Aluminum has the highest impact rating.

Price

Aluminum is typically not source because of cost.  Through years of managing supply chain and fabrication costs, ArmorLogix offers the most cost effective aluminum enclosure solutions in the industry.  We guarantee it and will meet and exceed by 10% any bona fide offer for a similar product.

Aesthetics

An increasing number of customers are requesting enclosures that make a statement – after all, this is the first thing your customers see. Aluminum is typically more expensive than alternate products because it is undisputed as the best material – also, it is identifiable immediately and states unequivocally that this is a premium offering.

Thermal Issues

Plastics such as poly-carbonate are superior insulators, while metallic materials such as Aluminum absorb and conduct heat. If heat dissipation is a concern, an aluminum enclosure will dissipate heat better than a non-metallic enclosure. Several thermal solutions are available to address heat concerns, including: fans, louvers, heat exchanges and air conditioners.

Weight Considerations

Depending on the application at hand, a lightweight enclosure may be preferable. Aluminum is the lightest metallic enclosure available.