Every metal enclosure begins with an idea. A problem exists – perhaps an oddly sized and sensitive computer must reside in a hazardous location that includes moisture and high temperatures – and a metal enclosure is designed and constructed to satisfy the specific issues presented by that problem. One of …
Lean Manufacturing Principles
Can you reduce a manufacturing system’s waste without sacrificing productivity and quality? This is the goal of lean manufacturing, an efficient production method utilized by many companies to eliminate anything that does not add value to the manufacturing process. We utilize this concept at American Products Contract Manufacturing (APCM) to …
Mig and Tig Welding
Do you know the difference between mig and tig welding? Both procedures rely on an electric arc to make the weld. However, one process involves a continuously feeding wire, while the other employs long welding rods, which are slowly fed into the weld puddle. One method is fast and efficient, …
What Is Deburring?
What is deburring? To understand this process, which occurs during the manufacture of metal enclosures (as well as many other products), we must first review the meaning of the word burr. Although it also refers to “a rough humming sound” and “a prickly seed case or flower head that clings to clothing and animal …
NEMA vs. IEC Classifications
Although some people might view standards and guidelines as restrictive, in many industries they provide a valuable method of communication. When manufacturers design and construct electrical enclosures that comply with NEMA or IEC classifications, they clarify important information about the protections offered by an enclosure. So when a consumer needs an …
NEMA Type 13 Enclosure
Although you might feel overwhelmed when first reviewing the NEMA standards for enclosures, you can quickly determine which type suits your situation by making a list of your required protections. The NEMA type 13 enclosure is designed for use in indoor, nonhazardous locations, and though it resembles the type 12 …
NEMA Type 12 Enclosure
Taking a little time now to learn about the NEMA enclosure types can save you a lot of money, stress, and frustration later. Since some of the types bear a strong resemblance to one another, you’ll need to carefully review which conditions each type provides a degree of protection against. …
NEMA Type 11 Enclosure
Most of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s thirteen types of enclosures can be roughly divided into three groups: general-purpose, specialized, and for use in hazardous conditions. The list begins with general-purpose enclosures, like the NEMA type 1, which protects against dust, light, and indirect splashing. Then it introduces us to enclosures with …
NEMA Type 9 and Type 10
When you enter a hazardous location, you will only find certain types of electrical enclosures. The manufacturer must design the enclosure specially for that environment, adjusting the design and materials to ensure that the perils presented by the setting do not harm the enclosure or the equipment contained within. We recently …
NEMA Type 7 and Type 8
Most enclosures cannot withstand the dangers presented in hazardous locations. NEMA type 1 enclosures? No way. Type 2? Absolutely not. Type 3? Forget about it. The two types of enclosures we will discuss today, however, NEMA type 7 and type 8, are designed to withstand certain threats. When “completely and properly installed …
