Supplement: Enclosures
Hinges in the electronics industry: essential components for enclosures and cabinets
By Gary Miles, MD, FDB Panel Fittings H
inges play a crucial role in the design and functionality of enclosures and cabinets across numerous industries, including electronics. As key mechanical components, hinges provide controlled movement for doors, panels, and lids, making it possible to access sensitive equipment securely. In the electronics industry, where precision, durability, and safety are paramount, selecting the right hinge design can significantly enhance both the performance and longevity of enclosures and cabinets, ensuring the protection of valuable electronic components. Here at FDB Panel Fittings we are stockists and distributors of major brands such as Enclosure Solutions/Barker Nelson - who have manufactured hinges since the 1970s - but we are also users of enclosure hardware in our sister role as custom builders of electrical protection panels. For over fifty years this dual role has provided our team with a wealth of experience from which to take an independent view of hinges and their uses – which leads us to the following.
Types of hinges for enclosures and cabinets
Hinges come in a variety of designs, each suited to specific functions and environments. The choice of hinge depends on a range of factors, such as load-bearing capacity, material durability, ease of installation, and the type of enclosure or cabinet it will be paired with. Among the most commonly used types of hinges for enclosures and cabinets are butt hinges, continuous hinges, concealed hinges, lift-off hinges, and quarter-turn hinges. Butt hinges are one of the most widely used hinge types in cabinet and enclosure design. Typically made of two interconnecting leaves that pivot on a pin, butt hinges are ideal for smaller and lighter cabinets that require a full 180-degree range of motion. These hinges are commonly constructed from stainless steel or
28 April 2025 FDB bullet style lift-off hinges for cabinets and panels
zinc-plated steel to resist corrosion and are known for their simplicity and reliability. Continuous hinges, also known as piano hinges, run the entire length of the door or panel, providing added strength and support. This type of hinge is well-suited for heavy doors or panels, such as those found in larger enclosures or server racks. Continuous hinges help distribute weight evenly along the length of the door, reducing wear and tear on any single point, which is essential for ensuring durability in high-traffic or heavy- duty environments.
Concealed hinges, or European-style hinges, are designed to be hidden from view
Components in Electronics
when the door or panel is closed, providing a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing appearance. These hinges are particularly useful in applications where the enclosure’s design emphasizes visual appeal without compromising on functionality. Concealed hinges are often used in enclosures that require easy access to internal components but need to maintain a seamless exterior design. Lift-off hinges are designed to allow for quick removal of doors or panels without the need for unscrewing or disassembling other parts. These hinges are ideal for applications where frequent access to the interior of an enclosure is required, such
as for maintenance or repair work. In the electronics industry, lift-off hinges are often found in larger enclosures or cabinets that house sensitive equipment requiring regular servicing.
Materials used in electronic enclosure hinges
The choice of materials for hinges in the electronics industry plays a significant role in determining the performance and durability of the hinge, as well as its ability to withstand environmental factors. Engineers must carefully consider the conditions under which the enclosure will
www.cieonline.co.uk
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