how to prevent deterioration of electrical equipment in outdoor enclosure
TRANSCRIPT
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Control Panel
Technical Guide
How can the deterioration
of electrical equipment installed
in an outdoor enclosure be prevented?
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"You have questions aboutinstalling electrical enclosures
outdoors. Here are the expert
answers you have been
waiting for".
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Accidental or early degradation
of outdoor electrical enclosures
is not always due to exceptionalclimatic events and/or the quality
of the enclosure.
Our experience shows that in most cases, unusual enclosure deterioration is closely
related to design errors:
Noinstallationenvironmentinformationcollectedorinsufcientinformationcollected
Inappropriatechoiceofmaterialand/orthermalmanagementsolutions
nsufcientknowledgeofproductsspecicallydesignedforoutdoorinstallation
Seekingcheapproductstothedetrimentofenclosurequalityandequipmentprotection
etc.
To help you implement your outdoor installation
project and take the right decisions, we have
compiled the "Outdoor electrical enclosures"
guide.
This technical guide contains a mine of
Schneider Electric's experience and know-how
and was based on the questions our customers
ask ... or do not think of asking. The answers are
the keys to a successful "installation environment/electrical enclosure" combination.
It also proves that an enclosure installed outdoors does not always call for
a maximum degree of IP.
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Installinganelectricalenclosureoutdoorsnecessarily
involvesexposingitcontinuallytomanyfactors:
Moisture
Ingressofsolidbodies(e.g.dust)andliquids
(e.g.rainwater,stagnantwater,roadcleaningwater,
etc.)
Sun(UVrays)
Ambientairquality
(e.g.salineenvironment,pollution,etc.)
Climaticevents(wind,hail,snow,etc.)
Mechanicalimpacts(vegetation,treebranches,
roadcleaningvehicles,etc.)
People(primaryvandalismorintrusion)
Animals(birddroppings,dogandcatfaeces)
Serious
Prematuredegradationoftheenclosureand
thedevicesinstalledinside:shorterinstallation
servicelife
Interruptedcontinuityofservice:malfunction,
installationoutage
Lossofprotectionforequipmentandpeople
Expensive
Frequentcurativemaintenance
Correctiveactionimplementation
Devicereplacement
e.g. In the metallurgical industry,
one hour of outage = 50,000
Outdoor installation:parameters and consequences
"Why
is an enclosure
that is perfectlysuitable for indoor
installation not always
appropriate for outdoor
installation?"
"What are
the possible
consequences ofchoosing the wrong
enclosure?"
Because when it is installed
outdoors, the electrical
enclosure is exposed for long
periods to a large number
of aggressive conditions
that are liable to damage it
Service outage
Degradation/Replacement
of devices inside
the enclosure
(and the enclosure itself)
Overview
of the protection
requirements
of outdoor enclosures
Sun
Climatic
events
Rain
Pollution
Mechanical
impacts/
Vandalism
Vegetation
Equipment protection:
Thermalmanagementsystem
(doorcontactandthermostat).
Environmental protection:
Canopy.
Saety o people:
Groundingaccessories.
ClassIIinsulation.
Saety o people and intrusion
protection:
Dooraccessories(lock).
Equipment protection:
Cableentry.
Equipment protection:
Thermalmanagementsystem
(heatingresistor,air-conditioning).
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The installation environment
Theinstallationsite(geographicallocation,marketsegment,onlandoratsea,
etc.)anditsenvironment(exposuretoweather,UVrays,aggressivesubstances,
airquality,etc.)
Installation protectionEnclosurematerialproperties
Tightnesslevel(IPdegree)
Impactresistance(IKdegree)
Saety o people
Safetyoftheinstallation
Protectionagainstelectricalhazard
Protectionagainstrehazard
Enclosure thermal management
Estimatedthermaldissipationrequirementandanticipationofthermalmanagementsolutions(activeorpassive)
Apartfromthethermaldissipationrelatedtoelectricalandelectronicdevices,
thermalmanagementlimitstheclimaticeffectsontheswitchgearandonthe
enclosure:operatingtemperature,condensation,etc.
"What parameters
should be taken into account when
choosing an outdoor enclosure?"
4 main factors
should be taken into account:
The installation environment
Installation protection
Safety of people Enclosure thermal management
Traps to be avoided
Choosing your electrical
enclosure without
carrying out a detailed
assessment of the
installation site and its
requirements in terms
of the protection of
equipment and people.
Concentrating onthe price. At the risk
of missing the most
important point:
the service life
of the installation.
Expert advice
No parameter should be ignored.
Take the time to analyse the situation and, if need be, ask for help in making your decision.
Choosing the wrong solution can be costly in the long run
(e.g. maintenance costs and corrective actions).
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Climatic conditions
Temperaturelevels(seasonalmeasurements)
Historyofclimaticevents
Rainfallrecordedonthesite
ExposuretoUVrays
Windstrength
etc.
Air quality
Moisturecontent
Pollutionlevel(corrosivesubstances)
Presenceofmicroscopicdust
Exposure to aggressive substances
e.g.dogurine,birddroppings,roadsalt,chemicals(exposuregenerallyrelated
tothemarketsegment:petrochemical,solventmanufacture,textileindustry,etc.).
Exposure to impacts
Fallingstones,branches,treetrunks,etc.thatmayhitanddamagetheenclosure
(paintwork)
Plantsinthevicinityoftheinstallationthatareamajorsourceofhumidity
Actsofvandalism
Assessingthe installation environment
"What aspects of the outdoor
environment should be considered?"
None should be ignored.
But priority should be given to:
Climatic conditions
Air quality
Exposure to aggressive substances
Exposure to mechanical impacts
Expert advice
Gather as much information as possible about the installation
environment. If no useful data is available, it is best to use
an enclosure made from insulating material by default.
For electrical enclosures installed outdoors, the natural ventilation
of the enclosure is often more important than a high levelof tightness.
Examples of the effects
of the environment
on the installation:
Water = loss of tightness
Humidity = risk of
corrosion of the enclosureand oxidation of
the components
Lush vegetation
= deterioration of
the surface treatment,
source of humidity
Air pollution = reduction
in the lifetime of
the installation
Vandalism = damage
to the enclosure and
internal components,
reduces the safety level
of the installation.
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Theplacewheretheenclosureistobeinstalledandtheoutdoorconditionstowhichitwillbeexposed
willinuencethechoiceofenclosuremodeltobeused.Andparticularlyitsmaterial.
Materials Advantages Market segment To be avoided
Standard steel
+ polyester based
paint
(standard onSchneider Electric
enclosures)
Moreeconomical
Idealforindoor
installation(standard conditions)
Mechanicalindustry
Outdoorenvironment
orindoorenvironment
with a high moisturecontent (> 80%)
Salineatmospheres
Standard steel
+ special surface
treatment
(on request onSchneider Electric
enclosures)
Idealforindoor
installation
(harsh conditions)or outdoor installation
(sheltered)
Specicindustries.
e.g. cement, bottling, etc.
Sitesexposedtomechanicalimpacts:
vegetation,ying
stones, contact withthepublic(riskof
scratchesorimpacts),
actsofvandalism,etc.
Stainless steel
(304L*)
Idealforlocationswith
strict hygiene rules
Transportinfrastructures,ports,streetlighting,
biotechnology, medical,
water distributionnetworks,agro-foodand
drinksindustry,etc.
Salineatmospheres
Presenceofchlorine
Stainless steel
(316L**)
Idealforlocationswith
strict hygiene rulesSalineatmosphere
resistance
Ports,oil&gas, industry,agro-food
ABS
or Polycarbonate
Light
Electricalhazardprotection
Corrosionprotection
Transportinfrastructures,ports,oil&gas,street
lighting, water distribution
networks,marineindustry,
etc.
Fibreglass-
reinforced
polyester
Harshindoorandoutdoor
environments
Salineatmosphereresistance (corrosion)
LightHighimpactresistance
Electricalhazardprotection(insulating
material)
Transportinfrastructures,ports,oil&gas,street
lighting, water distributionnetworks,marineindustry,
etc.
Just read on!
* Composition: 18%chromium and 8% nickel.
** Composition: 16%
chromium, 10% nickel
and 2% molybdenum.
Nickel and molybdenum
are more resistant to
chemical aggression,
whilst chromium provides
a surface protection film.
The resistance properties
of stainless steel are
related to its chemical
composition.
Expert advice
Stainless steel enclosures are particularly appropriate for corrosive environments or locations
where specific hygiene rules must be observed.
In the event of a high moisture content: avoid standard steel (without surface treatment).
In the event of exposure to mechanical aggressions: avoid standard steel enclosures.
Even with a special surface treatment.
Whatever the material, avoid exposing the electrical enclosure to direct sunlight
(limit the internal T).
"What enclosure material should be preferred,
depending on the type of environment?"
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Some basic rules or reducing dust inltration
and the eects o pollution:
Provide the required minimum ventilation
Notmorethantheamountneededforthermal
dissipation(seeProClimasoftware+Heat
optimisationguide).
A high IP degree o protection ispreferable
SchneiderElectricenclosuressupportadegreeof
protectionuptoIP54.
Use an air-conditioning system with lters that
are appropriate or polluted environments
Fit a protective canopy to the enclosure
Aslopingcanopytopreventwaterstagnationand
dustaccumulationonthetopoftheenclosure.
Assessingthe installation environment
Moderate ventilation
IP54
Air-conditioning with
anti-pollution filters
Fit a canopy to
the enclosure
"How can the equipment
inside the enclosure
be protected againstpollution?"
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Degree of protectionrequired for the installation
Outdoorinstallationsareparticularlyexposedtothephenomenonofcondensation.
However, a high IP degree o protection is not the solution to the condensation problem.
On the other hand, it may be the cause:
Theneedforprotection(IPdegree)canbeoverestimatedwithrespecttothephysicalconstraintsofthe
installationenvironment(e.g.lightrainfall,ventilatedarea,etc.).
hephenomenonofcondensationisgenerallyencounteredoninstallationswherethedegreeofprotectionisIP
54.
Causes o the condensation phenomenon on outdoor installations
Climaticconditions
Highairmoisturecontent
Moisturecontentinsidetheenclosure
Temperaturereduction(e.g.day/night,ground/externalT,etc.)
Lackofventilation
Most common sources o humidity
Theatmosphere
Waterinltrations
Waterinracewaysand/orcableducts
Presenceoflushvegetationaroundthe
installation
Sources o temperature variations
Unforeseenclimaticevents
Excessivecooling
Missingheatingcontrolsystem
"Does a high degree of protection (IP)
preserve the devices inside the enclosure
from degradation?"
No, not necessarily.
Expert advice
Do not ignore humidity that may arise from the cable entries.
Remember
An electrical enclosure
installed outdoors does
not always imply
a maximum degree
of IP.
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Degree of protectionrequired for the installation
"Which criteria provide us with information
about the resistance level of the enclosure?"
Three main elements:
The material of the enclosure
Its degree of protection (IP degree)
Its impact resistance (IK degree)
FOCUS ON...
The properties of
polyester
In comparison with other
materials, polyester
presents uniqueadvantages for installing
electrical enclosures
outdoors (and indoors):
Non-conductive material
(protection against
electrical hazard)
High resistance:
against impacts, climatic
conditions, chemicals,
temperature, mechanical
aggressions, etc.
Self-extinguishing
Light
Easy to modify/machine
as required
Maintenance free
Conforms to the RoHS
and REACH directives
Material strength comparison
Standard steel
Standard
steel + surace
treatment
Stainless steelABS or
Polycarbonate
Fibreglass-
reinorced
polyester
Oxidation
strength
Mechanicalstrength
Electrical
strength
Degree o protection (IP degree)
TheIPspeciesthedegreeofprotectionofpeople
againstdirectcontactsandthedegreeofprotection
ofdevicesagainstcertainexternalinuences:ingress
offoreignbodies(1stdigitoftheIPcode0to5)andtheharmfuleffectsoftheingressofwater(2nddigitof
theIPcode0to8).Irrespectiveofwhereitisinstalled
(indoorsoroutdoors).
Examples:
IP 43
"Solidforeignbodies"protection=4:protection
againstsolidforeignbodies>1mmindiameter
(e.g.thintools,newires)
"Water"protection=3:Protectionagainstfallingdrops
ofwaterupto60fromthevertical
IP 54
"Solidforeignbodies"protection=5:protection
againstdust,withnoharmfuldeposit
"Water"protection=4:protectionagainstwaterspray
fromalldirections
Degree o impact resistance (IK degree)
TheIKspeciesthedegreeofprotectionof
theenclosureagainstmechanicalimpacts
(e.g.fallingoryingstones,branchesoftrees,kicks,etc.).
ThetwodigitsafterthelettersIK(from00to10),indicatethedegreeofresistancetoimpactforwhich
theenergyisexpressedinJoules.
Examples:
IK 08
Theequipmentisprotectedagainstanimpact
equivalenttoa1.25kgweightfallingfromaheightof
40cm(impactenergy=5Joules).
Remember
The IP degree of
protection does not refer
to protecting equipment
against corrosion.
For further information...
See the full IP and IK degree table on
page 21 of the guide.
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A ew measures that can be taken against the ormation o water rom condensation inside
the enclosure:
Increase the air fow
Naturalventilationandpassivesolutionsshouldbepreferred.Anotherpartialsolutionistouseblowers
toincreasetheairow.Withthistypeofsolution,evenifthedewpointisreached,condensation
willformmainlyonthepoorlyventilatedareas.
Ideally, a heating system should be installed, depending on the humidity
Aheatingresistorcombinedwithahygrothermisstillthesurestwaytoreducethemoisturecontent.
Ensure that the enclosure is drainedTodothis,somecustomersdrillaholeinthebottomoftheenclosure.Ifnecessary,theyinclinetheenclosureandallowthecondensationwatertoowtowardsthehole.Thismayappearaverymakeshiftsolution,
butitstillworks.Theuseofadrainplugisstronglyrecommended.
N.B.:methodtobeavoidedforsteelenclosures(riskofcorrosion).
Limit sources such as:
Stagnant water
Lushvegetation(sourceofhumidity)
"How can condensation be prevented
from forming inside the enclosure?"
Firstly: by controlling the temperature and the moisture
content inside the enclosure
Expert advice
If the installation environment allows, limited IP degrees of protection (IP 43 or IP 54)
are preferred to encourage natural ventilation of the enclosure
(Passive thermal management solution).
Maintain the internal temperature above the dew point to prevent the air from becoming
moisture-laden. To control it: install a thermostat and a heating resistor or a moisture
controller (for advanced temperature control). With respect to air-conditioning: always place your trust in a recognised provider and clearly
define your needs (e.g. temper, cool certain areas, etc.).
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Eveniftheresistanceandservicelife
oftheinstallationmustbeyourpriorities,an electrical enclosure installed outdoors does
not necessarily require a maximum degree o IP.
Four essential parametersmustbeincluded inchoosingtheIPdegreeofprotection:
Theriskofingressofliquids(e.g.whetherornottheareaisexposedtorainwater,groundwashing,
etc.)
Theriskofingressofsolidbodiese.g.whether ornottheatmosphereisdusty)
Thelevelofprotectionofpeople
(e.g.whetherornotpeoplepassthrough)
Thefragilityofelectricalandelectronicdevices
(internal)andtheirsensitivitytodust
AnelectricalenclosureconformingtoIEC
62208 must indicate its degree of resistance to
mechanicalimpacts(IKdegreedenedbyIEC62262).
Example o IK10: theequipmentisprotectedagainstanimpactequivalenttoa5kgweight
falling from a height of 40 cm
(impactenergy=20Joules)
Degree of protectionrequired for the installation
"What IP degree
of protection is required
for an outdoorinstallation?"
The IP must first and
foremost be defined
with respect to
the characteristics
of the environment and
the devices installed within.
Remember
The IP of the installation
corresponds to the lowest
IP of the accessories
installed.
Expert advice
Do not base everything on the IP.
For example, most Schneider Electric
fibreglass-reinforced polyesterenclosures are only IP44 rated, whereas
they are designed to withstand harsh
outdoor environments.
Expert advice
By default, the maximum IK degree
of protection is IK 10.
You can go as low as IK 08 ifthe installation is not exposed to
the public or if you are using
a transparent door.
40 cm
5 kg
Maximum degree
of protection: IK 10.
"What IK degree
of protection is required
for an outdoorinstallation?"
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By choosing the right material or the seal
Thepurposeofthesealistoensuretightnessbetweentheenclosureanditsdoors/accessoriesoveralong
periodoftime.Thatiswhyitisimportanttochoosethematerialcarefully.Itseffectivenessandservicelifedependuponit.
ComparedtomaterialssuchassiliconeorEPDM(Ethylene-Propylene-DieneMonomer),polyurethanesealsofferuniqueadvantages:
Abrasionresistance
Better tear resistance
Weatherresistance
Excellentnoisebarriermaterial
By tting a protective canopy
Thecanopy,ttedatthetopoftheenclosure,willprotectthesealonalong-termbasis:nowaterinltration,
lessiceformation,limitedingressofforeignbodies,lessexposuretosunlight(topoftheenclosure),etc.
"How can the IP degree of protection
be maintained throughout the life cycle
of the installation?"
With quality seals and opting for a protective canopy
Expert advice
Regularly, and after exceptional climatic events, check the amount of wear on the O-ring.
Do not wait for it to leak before replacing it.
Do not forget to maintain the seal and canopy to ensure that their protective function is not
impaired. Even temporarily. Never clean the seal with a detergent or aggressive substances.
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The protection o people is ensured:
Bytheconstruction:insulatingenclosure
Bytheinstallation:earthingandequipotentiality,circuitbreakerorRCDprotection.
The installation site
Avoid:
Thoroughfares
Areasthataretoovisibletothepublic
Insulating properties o the enclosure
Standard steel Stainless steelABS or
Polycarbonate
Fibreglass-reinorced
polyester
Electrical
insulation
Saety o the installation
Door closing devices:forexamplea3-pointlock.
Hinges: themoretheyareconcealed,themoreyouimprovethesecurityleveloftheinstallation.
Level of safetyof people
"How can the safety of people (and that of the installa-
tion) be maximised?"
By preferring installation sites away from the public
By choosing a self-extinguishing, non-conductive material
(electrical hazard) for the enclosure
By making access to the installation more secure
By fitting grounding straps to earth the metal enclosures
Expert advice
As far as possible, avoid installing enclosures in areas frequented by a large number
of passers-by (public site) or by employees (private site).
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Assoonasanelectricalenclosureistobeinstalled
outside a building, the installer has to come to
terms with new thermal actors:exposuretosunlight,theambienttemperature,therisksof
condensation,temperaturevariations,etc.
Thethermalchallengeinvolvesrecreatinginsidetheenclosuretheoptimumconditionsinwhichthe
equipmentwithincanoperate.
How can the "ideal" environment be recreated?
BychoosingtherightIPdegreeofprotection(not
toohightoallownaturalventilation)
Bychoosingtherightsizeofenclosure
By choosing the right material for the enclosure
Byoptingfortherightthermalmanagement
solution
Main causes o increases in the internal
temperatures o outdoor enclosures:
Heatemissionsfrominternaldevices
Absorptionofcaloriesemittedbythesun
Thelackofventilation
Thermal management o enclosures is essential to:
Ensurecontinuityofservice:preventoutagesandmalfunctionscaused
byoverheatingelectricalandelectronicdevices
Reducecosts:relatedtoshuttingdownmanufacturingprocesses
or to installation maintenance
Increasethelifetimeofinternalcomponents
Beore any type o solution can be envisaged, the thermal conditions inside
and outside the enclosure should be measured and analysed:
air temperature, moisture content, etc.
Overview o thermal management solutions
"Passive" management solutions
Inexpensiveandnatural,dened
upstream
Choiceofequipment
Enclosuresize
Enclosure location
Wallinsulation
Powerloadarrangement
Relocationof"passive"electricalloads outside the enclosure
Cablearrangement
Airowmanagement
Ventilationornaturalconvection
Naturaldissipationandairagitation
"Active" management solutions
Correctivesolutions,requiringspecial
dimensioning,canbeexpensive
Heatcontrolequipment
Forcedconvection
Forcedventilation
Airconditioners
Air/waterexchangers
Air/airexchangers
Heatingresistors
Thermalmanagement
"How does the thermal
managementof outdoor
enclosures differ fromthat of indoor
enclosures?"
Because installing
the electrical enclosure
outdoors involves other
thermal parameters
Two main solution categories:
"Passive" solutions
"Active" solutions
"What solutions
can be used to reduce
the temperatureinside the enclosure?"
Traps to be avoided
Believing that an outdoor enclosure
does not need thermal management
solutions and that it is always ventilated
naturally.
Expert advice
Maximise "Passive" solutions before envisaging an "Active" one.
Polyester is a better heat insulating material than metal
or stainless steel, which absorb and conduct heat.
It is very important to divide the power loads into different groups:save energy, avoid unnecessary hot spots, lower the average
temperature of the enclosure and be able to adapt the thermal
management solution in the best possible way.
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"What is material
"Tropicalisation"?"
A process by which
the resistance of a device
is adapted to its working
environment.
In the electrical field and with
respect to enclosures, it means
protecting the interior and
exterior against oxidation.
"Is the protective canopy
really necessary?"
YES. Depending on the
environment, fitting a protective
canopy can be very effective:
It covers the seal located
between the door and
the enclosure (no water
infiltration, less ice formation, etc.)
It protects the top of
the enclosure from the rays
of the sun (reduces the T
inside the enclosure and
the need for ventilation)
It prevents the stagnation
of water on the top of the
enclosure (and reduces corrosion)
What are the IEC 62208
compliance tests?
(related to outdoor
installation)
Weather resistance: exposure
of the enclosure for 500 h
(rain + UV lamp)
Corrosion resistance
(for outdoor installation):
alternate cycles of humidity
(95%) and salt mist during
24 cycles of 24 hours.
N.B.: the IEC 62208 standard requires
the IP and IK to be declared
and verified.
"What is the difference be-
tween IEC 60529and NEMA 250? "
IEC 60529:
defines the IP degrees
of protection relating to
the levels of protection
of people and to protection
against the ingress of solid
bodies and water.NEMA 250: defines a system
for classifying enclosures for
indoor or outdoor use, known
as the "Type".
NEMA 250 addresses:
the protection of people,
protection against the ingress
of water and solid bodies,
formation of ice, corrosion,
seal strength, etc.
Frequentlyasked questions
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"How can
water be evacuated?"
By installing a water drain
plug. You are reminded that
Schneider Electric provides
IP 55 rated drain plugs
with its polyester enclosures.
"Is the colour
of the enclosure
important?"
YES. The percentage of radiation absorbed by the enclosure and emitted
to surrounding objects is closely related to the finish and colour
of the surface of the enclosure.
The metal surface absorbs some of the heat dissipated by a source
of temperature such as a heating resistor, which consequently increases
the temperature inside the enclosure.
The capacity of the enclosure to dissipate the internal heat (in W/K)
is generally less for bright smooth surfaces than for other types
of surfaces.
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Frequentlyasked questions
There are three classes of equipment, depending on their insulation level:
Class 0 and the next two classes:
"In terms of exposure to sunlight,
are UV rays the only factors
to be considered?"
"What does
Class II equipment
mean?"
NO. UV rays are not the only limiting factors. There is even more radiation
in the visible and infrared spectrum than in UV rays and this should also
be taken into account.
See the solar radiation distribution table below (as per IEC 60068-2-5):
Spectral
range
Ultraviolet
B
Ultraviolet
AVisible Inrared
Irradiance 5W/m 63W/m 200W/m 186W/m 174W/m 492W/m
Remember
Polyester enclosures,
which are fully insulating
by design, are used
for Class II installations
(full insulation
corresponds to Class II
- see IEC 61439)
Class II equipment:
equipment for which
protection against indirect
contacts is provided by
double-insulated orreinforced insulation
components.
Class I equipment:
equipment with design
regulations, allowing its
accessible metal parts
to be earthed.
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Remember
The degrees of
protection provided
by enclosures are defined
by IEC 60529 (IP) and
IEC 62262 (IK).
The letters IP followed
by 2 characteristic digits
are used to represent
the degrees of protection.
The digits indicatethe degree of protection
provided by the enclosure
against access to
the dangerous parts and
the ingress of solid bodies
(1st digit) and against
the ingress of liquids
(2nd digit).
The letters IK followed
by 2 characteristic digits
are used to represent
the protection against
external mechanical
impacts.
N.B.: many European
standards (EN) are
harmonised with
the IEC international
standards.
That is the case with
the enclosure protection
standards:
EN 60529 = IEC 60529.
EN 62262 = IEC 62262.
0
Noprotection
1
Protectionagainstsolid
objects larger than 50 mm
(e.g. accidental hand
contact)
2
Protectionagainstsolid
objects larger than 12 mm
(e.g.ngers)
3
Protectionagainstsolid
objects larger than 2.5 mm
(tools, wires)
4
Protectionagainstsolid
objects larger than 1 mm
(thintools,newires)
5
Protectionagainstdust
(noharmfuldeposit)
6
Fullprotectionagainst
test dust
IP IK First digit
Protectionagainst
solid objects
Second digit
Protection
against liquids
Mechanical
protection
0
Noprotection
1
Protectionagainstvertically
fallingdropsofwater
(condensation)
2
Protectionagainstfalling
dropsofwaterupto15from
thevertical
3
Protectionagainstrainwater
upto60fromthevertical
4
Protectionagainstwater
sprayfromalldirections
5
Protectionagainstjets
ofwaterfromnozzlesfrom
all directions
6
Protectionagainstpowerful
jetsofwaterfromnozzlesfrom
all directions
7
Protectionagainst
the effects of immersion
8
Protectionagainst
theprolongedeffects
ofimmersionunderpressure
0
Noprotection
01
Impactenergy:0.150Joule
02
Impactenergy:0.200Joule
03
Impactenergy:0.350Joule
04
Impactenergy:0.500Joule
05
Impactenergy:0.700Joule
06
Impactenergy:1.00Joule
07
Impactenergy:2.00Joules
08
Impactenergy:5.00Joules
09
Impactenergy:10.00Joules
10
Impactenergy:20.00Joules
"What are the different IP and IK
degrees of protection?"
7.5 cm
10 cm
17.5 cm
25 cm
35cm
20 cm
40 cm
29.5 cm
20 cm
40 cm
200g
200g
200g
200g
200g
500g
500g
1,7kg
5kg
5kg
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Collect as muchdata as possible about
the environment
Start by making a detailed
assessment of the environment
(as accurately as possible).
The data collected will allow you
to assess the levels of protection
required: against the ingress
of solid bodies or liquids, impacts,sunlight and its UV rays, cold,
heat, wind, etc. Protection against
graffiti, noise pollution, access
by people.
Ru le
no.1Consider outdoorequipment
requirements
How will the enclosure be installed
(on a wall, a base, etc.)?
How will it be protected against its
environment (need for a canopy,
a padlock, etc.)?
How will the cables enter the
enclosure (preferably from below)?
How will it be taken to its location
(e.g. lifting system)?
etc.
Rule
no.3
Assess and integrate
the particular requirementsof the application
Where will the enclosure
be installed: in a refinery,
a water treatment plant, etc.,
on a pavement, in a car park,
on an off-shore platform?
Does the installation require
mounting plates, a modular frame,a 19" rack?
Does the enclosure need to be
raised and placed on a base
(to reduce water spray, rising
damp and damage in the event
of a flood)?
Rule
no.4
Make a detailed
inventory of the devicesinside the enclosure
What is happening inside
the enclosure is as important
as what is happening outside.
The characteristics of the
enclosure, and particularly its
size, are also dictated by the type
of devices it contains (this also
applies when the enclosureis installed indoors):
Their dimensions
Their level of thermal dissipation
Their level of resistance
(e.g. to cold, heat, water, dust, etc.)
Their thermal management
requirements
(e.g. heating, cooling, etc.)
The need for easy access
(maintenance)
Ru le
no.2
Worksheet
H o w c a n a n e l e c t r i c a l e n c l o s u r e b e
The enclosures you are
going to install must
be able to withstand
any natural or human
aggression. They will
have to protect the
devices they contain
as effectively and
as long as possible.
By observing a few basic
rules (recommended
below), you will be takingno chances and be sure
to successfully install
your electrical enclosure
outdoors.
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23
Determinethe correct size
of the enclosure
What devices will be installed
inside?
Where will they be installed
in the enclosure?
Are there any constraints in
terms of size and weight
(e.g. will it be installed on a ship,
in town, on a platform, etc.)
etc.
Rule
no.5Get the"Thermal management"
reflex
Whether the enclosure is
installed indoors or outdoors, it
is an accepted fact that efficient
thermal management maximises
the performance and service life
of the electrical and electronic
components. Whereas it is vitalto manage and dissipate the heat
accumulated, in some cases the
inside of the enclosure has to be
heated.
Ask yourself a few essential
questions:
What is the temperature of the
outdoor environment?
What can the temperature insidethe enclosure be (heat emissions
from installed loads)?
What is the heat resistance level
of the enclosure (material)?
What is the size of the enclosure?
What surfaces encourage heat
transfer?
What are the thermal dissipation
requirements?
What type of system do I need
(prioritise passive solutions)?
Rule
no.7
Pay attention
to the weight
Where the weight of the enclosure
is concerned, you must consider
the weight of the devices AND
the weight of the enclosure, such
as it will ultimately be configured.
Most "non-metal" materials
weigh less than metal ones.
It is essential to know the weightbefore envisaging the handling
and fixing solutions, particularly
those involving wall-mounting
(is the wall strong enough? will
the fastening system withstand
the weight? and so on).
Rule
no.6
u c c e s s f u l l y i n s t a l l e d o u t d o o r s ?
FOCUS ON ...
Spacial.pro software
Spacial.pro offers
various solutions, based
on the standard Spacial
products.
Within a few minutes,
the software will tell you
the cost of your project
in the form of several sets
of tables and generate
an estimate as well as 2D
diagrams (front and side
views).
FOCUS ON... ProClima v5.0 software
ProClima v5.0 will allow you to estimate your thermal
management needs. From the data you have collected
and entered in the software, ProClima v5.0 will proposesolutions to match the characteristics of the installation
(environment, indoor electrical and electronic
equipment, etc.). And only these!
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Choosethe appropriate
enclosure material
The material you choose for
the enclosure should ideally have
four intrinsic qualities:
Be able to protect the devices
against the external aggressions
you have identified
Have thermal properties
(e.g. it must not absorb heat)
Protect people against electrical
hazard and the risk of fire
(non-conductive material,
self-extinguishing)
Provide sufficient adaptability
to allow the enclosure to be easily
modified (e.g. by drilling holes,
etc.), without damaging its level
of protection.
For example fibreglass-reinforced
polyester is particularly valued
for its capacity to be easily
modified and repaired on site.
Due to its hardness, stainless
steel is very difficult to cut and
consequently, it is not very flexible.
Ru le
no.8Do not ignorethe cable
entries
The cable entries can be a
considerable source of humidity...
and corrosion.
The range is wide: from basic cable
entries to separate sealed cable
entries.
Practical advice:
To avoid corrosion on metal
enclosures, do not machine them.
Ru le
no.9
Fichepratique
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Think aboutaccessing
the installation
For current use:
door contact, door stop,
document pocket, etc.
For maintenance:
easy-to-remove doors to make
it easier to access the filters, air
outlets, etc.
Rule
no.10Above all, do not forgetto make the installation
access points secure
No unauthorised persons
are allowed to access
the devices. To ensure
the maximum safety of people
and of the electrical installation,
all solutions must be considered:
door lock, padlock, etc.
Rule
no.11
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26
Overview of Schneider Electric universalenclosures
SDB Steel junction boxes IP 55
S44 Steel industrial boxes IP 66
S57 Steel screw-fixed cover boxes IP 66
S24 Steel safety boxes IP 55
Spacial Steel
CV-CA Ventilation and
air-circulation systems
Mounting Power
distribution
Cable
management
CE Exchangers CUCooling unit
Boxes
From7
4x74mm
to720x540mm
Wall-mounting
enclosu
res
From3
00x200mm
to1200x1
000mm
ClimaSys
Thermal
conditioning
Accessor
ies
S3D Wall-mounting steel enclosures
S3DB Terminal enclosures
S3DBFL Terminal enclosures with FL21 cut-out
S3DM Modular distribution enclosures
VDM 19" enclosures
S3DEX For potentially explosive atmospheres
S3HF Electromagnetic protection
SM Floor-standing steel compact enclosurer
SFFloor-standing steel suitable enclosure
Compartmentalised enclosure
Electronic application
Prisma Plus application
Automotive enclosure
S3CM Control enclosures with
suspension system
SD Compact control desks
SDF Control desk with console
SF application
Floor-standing
enc
losures
From
500x500mm
to22
00x1600mm
Human-machine
interface
enclosures
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S3XWall-mounting stainless
steel enclosure
S3XEX For potentially
explosive atmospheres
Spacial Stainless steel Thalassa insulating materials
PLS Modular insulating boxes
TBP Polycarbonate industrial boxes
TBS ABS industrial boxes
PLM Wall-mounting
polyester cubicle
PLMEX For potentiallyexplosive atmospheres
PLAFloor-standing
polyester enclosure
PLDFloor-standing
polyester DIN enclosure
CR Heating resistors CC Thermal
control
Lighting
and power outlet
Door
accessories
Earthing
accessories
ProClima 5.0
Thermal software
SMXFloor-standing
stainless steel compact
enclosure
SFXFloor-standing
stainless steel suitable
enclosure
SDXStainless steel
control desk
SMXPC Application
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