WHICH IP-RATED ENCLOSURES ARE BEST FOR MODERN SENSORS AND DATA LOGGING?

SUPERIOR PROTECTION FOR SENSORS AND DATA LOGGERS

Increasing use of sensors and data loggers in challenging conditions means specifying tough enclosures with advanced technical features. Basic resilience is just the starting point: smart design also matters because it offers extra protection.

IP-rated diecast aluminum enclosures – often with ‘lid closed’ installation – are an excellent solution. Housings molded from engineering-grade plastics have also become popular. Look for models that offer high levels of ingress protection. IP 65 is the minimum rating recommended. Many enclosures will need IP 66, IP 67, IP 68 or IP 69K where regular high-pressure jet washing is expected.

Below you’ll find a brief sector-by-sector guide to the best industrial electronic enclosures for your sensors and data loggers.

AGRICULTURE AND FARMING

Devices are often exposed to moisture, mud, fertilisers and fluctuating temperatures. The design focus should be on resistance to ammonia and other chemicals found in animal waste. Solar-powered units also need long-term UV resistance.

Recommended enclosures: mobilCASE, aluDOOR, technoBOX, handCASE.

CONSTRUCTION

Building sites can mete out a punishing regime of shock, vibration, dust and rough handling. Enclosure requirements include high mechanical strength, a wide temperature range, vibration-proof fixings and secure latching.

Specify a rugged enclosure with an anti-corrosive finish that can withstand abrasion and concrete dust. Premium aluDOOR (IP 66, IP 67, IP 68, IP 69K) with its tough integrated hinge system is a prime contender.

Recommended enclosures: aluDOOR, aluCASE, polyTOP, mobilCASE.

ENERGY MONITORING (RENEWABLES, UTILITIES)

Outdoor installation, electrical safety and long-term reliability are the main requirements. That means good weatherproofing (IP 67+), long-term UV resistance and dependable RFI/EMI shielding. Opt for a diecast housing: conFORM (IP 66, IP 67) has built-in shielding thanks to a patented tooth and rail system: no separate shielded gasket is needed.

Recommended enclosures: conFORM, aluCASE, aluDISC.

GAS/FIRE DETECTION AND MONITORING

Despite the proliferation of hazardous locations in this sector, not all applications require ATEX/IECEx certification. However, aluminum housings are recommended for ignition source prevention.

They can be machined to tight tolerances and can also be bonded and earthed to deal with static charges. Furthermore, their high thermal conductivity allows heat to spread across the enclosure surface and dissipate safely.

Recommended enclosures: aluDOOR, aluDISC, aluCASE, aluKOM.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Regular jet washing calls for IP 69K enclosures with smooth, crevice-free surfaces and rounded edges. The seal – aside from being able to cope with high-pressure jets – must also be resistant to caustic and acidic cleaners.

But the HMI control panels monitoring the sensors may not need IP 69K protection. Premium multiPANEL (IP 65) and versatile profiPANEL (IP 65) HMI enclosures can be manufactured in custom sizes from 150 x 150 mm to 800 x 800 mm (to within a millimetre) and mounted on profiPANEL modular suspension arms.

Recommended products: aluDOOR, aluKOM, multiPANEL, profiPANEL, profiPLUS 50.

MACHINE AND SYSTEM MONITORING

Proximity to moving machinery exposes electronics to heat and vibration. The protective enclosures must be robust but also small enough to meet space constraints. Vibration resistance and cable strain relief are key prerequisites.

Ease of integration also matters so consider enclosures that are available in a wide range of sizes. Models such as aluKOM (IP 66) that are manufactured in industry-standard sizes make it easier to replace existing units, speeding up installations.

Recommended enclosures: aluDOOR, aluCASE, aluDISC, aluKOM.

TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS, PHARMACEUTICALS

These interlinked sectors deal with products that are often sensitive, requiring special handling and storage to preserve their quality and ensure their effectiveness. Stringent cleanliness is critical so enclosures will frequently be exposed to chemicals.

Temperature control of foodstuffs (meat, fish, dairy, fresh fruit and vegetables) also means the enclosures must cope with refrigeration. They must be temperature-stable with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces that are resistant to alcohol-based sanitisers. Plastics must be non-reactive.

Recommended enclosures: technoCASE, aluKOM, aluNORM.

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

Prolonged outdoor exposure in poor weather and extreme climates can soon take its toll on enclosures if they are not sufficiently strong and watertight. There is also the risk of biological fouling caused by bacteria, algae, fungi and larger organisms such as plant roots, worms, crustaceans and molluscs.

Specify IP 67 or IP 68 enclosures with excellent UV resistance, corrosion protection and low thermal expansion. The housings must offer long-term weatherproofing, easy maintenance and low-power integration for remote operation.

Recommended enclosures: aluDOOR, aluTWIN, aluNORM, technoPLUS.

LEARN MORE

View our sensors and data logging applications page to learn more about specifying enclosures for this application field

CUSTOMIZED SENSOR ENCLOSURES

Specify your enclosures fully customized. ROLEC’s modification services include CNC machining, engraving, powder coating, painting, digital/screen printing, shielding, transparent windows for displays, and assembly of accessories.

NEXT STEPS

Contact our expert team for technical advice on specifying the best enclosures for your engineering electronics. Request a sample of your preferred enclosure.