ENCLOSURES FEATURE
HOW IOT/IIOT APPLICATIONS ARE TRANSFORMING ELECTRONIC ENCLOSURES N
etworks are having a huge impact on the design of plastic electronic enclosures - simple ABS boxes will no longer cut it in the cutting-edge world of Industry 4.0. That’s not just because of greater
customisation of standard enclosures. It is down to something more fundamental: standard enclosures are being required to perform more specific roles, whilst remaining versatile and discreet in their overall design. Industry 4.0’s dependence on wireless
networked sensors for data collection and machine-to-machine communication has placed increased demands on the enclosures that house them. Standard plastic cases must now be capable of being mounted on unique surfaces such as on poles, in corners and on ceilings – and they must be able to survive tougher working environments.
OKW Enclosures marketing director Robert Cox said, “Increasingly, we are seeing plastic enclosures being specified for smart factory applications that may previously have involved a metal case, so they must be robust. But they must also be adaptable, easy to install and easier to remove for maintenance. Finally, they have to possess aesthetic value, as this is a higher priority today.” OKW has responded to changing demands by launching EasyTec, an IoT/ IIoT sensor enclosure that fits poles, tubes and rails, as well as flat surfaces; its mounting flanges enable it to be either cable-tied or screwed in place. Continuing with this adaptable theme, EasyTec’s launch comes after OKW unveiled Smart-Control, a smart, wedge-shaped housing designed primarily for corners. But that’s not its sole purpose: a smart wall suspension
Clean look, clear use - IP68 wall/ desktop mount plastic enclosures
D
esigned for the installation of electronic or electrical systems in
the factory environment, Hammond Electronics’ 1557 family of enclosures combines effective sealing against dust and water with a clean, contemporary appearance. The initial release consists of four plan sizes, each in two heights: 80 x 80 x 45 and 60mm, and 120 x 120, 160 x 160 and 200 x 200, in the heights of 45 and 70mm.
It is available in two materials: polycarbonate, sealed to IP68, and ABS, designed to meet IP66. The polycarbonate versions have been UL
tested and listed. However, ABS versions have not been submitted for independent testing, hence the lower IP66 sealing qualification. Sustaining this comparison, the IP68 polycarbonate versions are UV stabilised for outdoor use with a UL94-5VA rating, while the IP66 ABS versions have a flammability rating of UL94-HB, suited to indoor use. The high temperature compressible silicone gasket between the lid and base enhances the sealing of the tongue and groove construction between the mating halves, providing protection against the ingress of oil, dust and water. The lid and base are secured together with four corrosion- resistant, M4 stainless-steel machine screws, which are threaded into integral stainless-steel bushings, for repetitive assembly and disassembly. The fixings are external to the sealed area, ensuring
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element and a neat desk stand mean it’s equally at home on flat walls or desktops. Though different, the two new enclosures share a common design ethos. Both feature design touches and soft contours for optimum ergonomics. Both are moulded from ASA+PC-FR (rather than ABS) for added strength and UV stability, are IP rated, and both are assembled with tamperproof, stainless steel Torx screws as standard (a key requirement for medical electronics).
OKW
www.okw.co.uk
that the integrity of the seal is not compromised. PCB standoffs are provided in both the lid and base. Rounded corners and a smooth top face deliver a practical yet trendy style. But, emphasising its practicality, the environmental sealing for these respective parts allows the enclosures to protect the housed equipment against dust and water entry in dirty and damp environments. The 1557 can be used as a free-standing enclosure when fitted with the supplied feet, or is designed to be wall-mounted with two mounting options available. Recesses in the base fit two of the four supplied mounting brackets, enabling the unit to be flush mounted against the wall or surface for a neat appearance. If the housed electronics include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication capability, this option is probably the best. If a wired connection is required, the cable can be brought into the rear of the unit. Finally, if a heavy-duty mounting is required, the four mounting brackets can be assembled on opposing sides of the enclosure. This gives a 4.5mm standoff from the mounting surface, for a surface mounted cable to enter the rear of the unit.
Hammond Manufacturing
www.hammondmfg.com
ELECTRONICS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020 25
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