ENCLOSURES


The Benefits of Custom Enclosures


When it comes to electronic systems, enclosures are a key product design consideration


A


n enclosure is the protective housing or casing that protects your internal


electronics from environmental factors, such as moisture or heat, while simultaneously protecting the end user from accidental contact with live wiring.


Opting for a custom enclosure, rather than choosing from stock options, lends itself to a more integrated product design process and can deliver a range of benefits for your product’s performance and aesthetics. Here, Paul Dearman, head of business development at UK manufacturer GTK, considers some of the benefits that electronics manufacturers can enjoy by choosing custom enclosures when developing a new product.


Optimisation for use


Opting for a customised enclosure for electronics products means an end result that is optimised for use. When you choose a specialist manufacturer with the capability to tailor an enclosure design with your product’s end-use in mind, a number of features and enhancements can be added to ensure the design is fit for use.


“For example,” comments Paul, “many of the enclosures we design are customised to highly specialised sectors and therefore have to meet key compliance standards. For marine use, we design enclosures to meet specific IP ratings, providing the required level of protection against water and dust ingress.


“Equally, when a product will be used in an industrial setting, custom enclosures can be reinforced for greater durability or specified with increased insulation for user protection. The right enclosure helps ensure your product is fit for use.”


Cost-down opportunities Custom enclosures will, in most cases, cost more than stock options and are likely to have higher initial design costs. In the long-term, however, enclosures designed and produced under a


design-for-manufacture (DFM) approach can result in an end-product that is simpler


“


When you choose a specialist


manufacturer with the capability to tailor an enclosure design with your product’s end-use in mind, a number of features and enhancements can be added to ensure the design is fit for use.


and easier to produce.


of your specific components in mind, you’re likely to see a reduction in component failures and product returns” Paul explains.


Advanced aesthetics & ergonomics


Whether that means a streamlined production line thanks to a bespoke design or reduced tooling costs through the use of standardised parts, the overall manufacturing process can be expedited through the selection of custom enclosures. Potential cost savings don’t just apply to the production process either. “If an enclosure is produced with the protection


28 OCTOBER 2024 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS ”


“Ergonomics remain an ever-important consideration, whether you’re designing electronics for business or consumer use,” continues Paul. “Custom enclosures typically mean you can make more efficient use of the space available and deliver a more compact design. When space is at a premium, as with many consumer electronics, this can make all the difference. “Bespoke enclosures also give you full control over the look and feel of your product, whether that’s through the addition of powder or liquid-coated finishes, the addition of your company logo or via corporate branding.”


As Paul says, “enclosures are often specified with function over style in mind. However, customised enclosures have the ability to open new doors from a product design perspective, delivering a range of both performance and aesthetic benefits.”


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