Probably, you are wondering what the NEMA 3R electrical enclosure is and the level of protection it provides.
This article will explore the degree of protection the NEMA 3R electrical enclosure rating provides, basic specifications, and uses. We will also compare the NEMA 3R rates for electrical enclosures with other related standards.
What is NEMA 3R Enclosure?
NEMA 3R is an electrical enclosure standard that defines its ability to protect components from rainwater. These enclosures may sometimes feature water-resistant gaskets to provide additional protection.
Protection Level for NEMA 3R Rating
Every NEMA rating defines a specific degree of protection. The 3R is an upgrade of the NEMA 3 enclosure, ideally improving the protection level.
3R NEMA enclosure offers better protection for accidental contact, ice, rainwater, falling dirt, splashing water, or snow. The advanced protection is attributed to the advanced construction design and features such as drain holes.
IP Equivalent of NEMA 3R Standard for Electrical Enclosure
IP 14 defines the ability to protectcomponents against water droplets falling in a vertical direction. Such a degree of protection makes it one of the IP rating enclosures that offer a degree of protection similar to the NEMA 3R standard.
However, it is critical to note that although IP 14 shares some features with NEMA 3R, the latter has more protection features. It is for this reason that IP rating electrical enclosures are not always enough.
NEMA 3R Electrical Enclosure Specification
NEMA rated enclosures specification determines the level of protection. Therefore, whenever you are choosing an electrical enclosure, you should consider:
NEMA 3R Electrical Enclosure Sizes
It describes the volume of the electrical enclosure. In most cases, the NEMA 3R electrical enclosure sizes come inlength by width by height. That is, you may find enclosure sizes with varying dimensions 45 x 75 x 35 or 200 x 400 x 100 mm.
Additional Features
With these NEMA rated enclosures, they must meet various construction and safety designs. For instance, they may have special gaskets, locking mechanisms, etc.
Other features may include drainage holes, or weep holes. These holes prevent liquid from accumulating within the enclosure.
Comparing NEMA 3R to Other Electrical Enclosures
Even as you shop for NEMA 3R rated electrical enclosures, at times you may wish to compare these enclosures. Although the NEMA standard offers over 13 protection ratings, we will only focus on those that are closely related to NEMA 3R:
NEMA 3 VS 3R Electrical Enclosure
NEMA 3R has all the features NEMA 3 enclosures possess. However, the NEMA 3R has special drain holes. It is these holes that drain any liquid that may accumulate within the electrical enclosure.
NEMA 3R vs. NEMA 3RX Electrical Enclosure
A NEMA 3RX enclosure is an improved version NEMA 3R standard. The 3RX enclosures are designed to offer protection from corrosive environments.
Therefore, such electrical enclosure boxes are made from special materials that are corrosion-resistant such as 316 stainless steel. Alternatively, the material possesses special surface treatment preventing it from corrosion. A common treatment is powder coating electrical enclosure.
Where to Use NEMA 3R Electrical Enclosure
Type NEMA 3R for wet locations features unique designs with water-resistant gaskets. Such enclosures will protect your systems from water droplets.
Ideally, these electrical enclosure systems are designed mainly for outdoor applications. Even the vented NEMA 3R enclosures, the vents are such that all components are safe from water droplets.
Besides, you can also install these electrical enclosures indoors.
FAQs
Can you use NEMA 3R Enclosure Rating Indoors?
Yes, these electrical enclosures are uniquely designed to meet the demandsof environmental conditions in both indoor and outdoor conditions.
Can the NEMA 3R Enclosure be Stainless Steel?
Yes, stainless steel remains a popular electrical enclosure material that perfectly the dynamic environmental situation. For these electrical enclosures, you can choose 304 or 316 stainless steel.
Are Type 3R Electrical Enclosures Dustproof?
Although the electrical enclosure will protect your equipment from normal dirt and falling objects. It is not suitable for fine windblown dust particles. Besides, it will not protect your stems from airborne contaminants as well.
Conclusion
As you can see NEMA3R rated electrical enclosure offer perfect protection for both indoor and outdoor applications. In case you want an enclosure that can provide protection against rain, sleet, or snow, then 3R enclosures are perfect solution for you.
More resources:
NEMA 7 vs. NEMA 4X – Source: KDM
NEMA 2 Enclosure – Source: KDM
NEMA 13 Enclosure – Source: KDM
NEMA 4 vs 4X Enclosures – Source: KDM
NEMA 1 Enclosure – Source: KDM
