If you are looking for any information about protection level, features, material option and uses of NEMA 4X enclosure, then read this guide.
We have covered everything about NEMA 4X rated electrical enclosure.
By the end of this article, you will easily decide whether these electrical enclosures are suitable for your applications or not
What is NEMAX 4 Enclosure Rating?
NEMA 4 enclosure rating is a NEMA standard that represents a type of electrical protective case that keeps electrical parts safe from different electrical parts in the environment.
NEMA 4X comes with the same features that NEMA 4 has. However, it has an added feature which the X represents. It represents extra corrosion resistance.
Comparing NEMA 4X and NEMA 4 Enclosure
| Area | NEMA 4 | NEMA 4X |
| Safety against windblown dust | Yes | Yes |
| Safety against rain and splashing water | Yes | Yes |
| Resistance to corrosion | Standard, mostly made from painted steel | Enhanced, mostly made from stainless steel, fiberglass, etc. |
| Cost | Ideally cheaper | Higher cost because of its corrosion resistant features |
| Ideal applications | Used indoor and outdoor environments where dust and water are prevalent | Used in harsh areas that have corrosive elements like marine areas, chemical plants, etc. |
| Safety against ice formation | Yes | Yes |
Features of NEMA 4X Electrical Enclosure
Below are the features of the NEMA 4X enclosure:
- Resists corrosion due to the materials it is made with or from.
- Is sealed to ensure dust is prevented from penetrating into or causing damages to internal parts from windblown dust.
- Designed to ensure splashing water and rain is kept out from all components within.
- Built to stand against impact as well as maintain integrity structurally even in conditions that are demanding.
- Made from unique UV resisting materials which means they can be used outdoors.
- Resists various chemicals
- Can work within different temperature ranges which makes it ideal to use in various climates.
- Designed to be easy to install.
- Comes with high quality gaskets and seals to ensure protection is maintained over various periods.
- Mostly comes with locking features to keep enclosures safe.
Best Materials for NEMA 4X Rated Enclosure
When it comes to electrical enclosure materials, you have many options that suit the NEMA 4X standards. Some popular materials include:
· Aluminum NEMA 4X Enclosure
Aluminum is one famous material used to make NEMA 4X enclosures. This is because it is light in weight and has excellent corrosion resistance. Although its resistance to corrosion cannot be compared to that of stainless steel, it is used more when weight is the goal.
· Stainless Steel NEMA 4 Enclosure
Stainless steel is another famous material used to make NEMA 4X enclosures because it highly resists corrosion and rust. This makes it ideal for environments that are harsh. It also has a high level of strength and durability.
· Fiberglass reinforced polyester (FRP)
Fiberglass is an excellent option and a non-metallic material used in making NEMA 4X enclosures. This is because it is light in weight, resistant to chemicals and corrosion, as well as strong. Apart from all these, it has excellent UV resistance.
· Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is used due to its durable nature. This material is a plastic that is durable. It is resistant to UV light, impact, and chemicals. Also, it is easy to use and light in weight.
· Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC materials when used for NEMA 4X enclosures helps to resist various chemicals as well as impact. One unique feature with this material is that, it is reasonably priced.
Factors Determining NEMA 4X Enclosure Price
Here are some of the factors that determine the cost of NEMA 4X prices on the market:
- Size – When the enclosure is larger or bigger, more material is used which means more money and a higher cost. This is the same if it is smaller.
- Material – The price of enclosures is determined greatly by the type of material used in making them. So, the more and unique features the material has, the higher the price and fewer the features, the cheaper the price.
- Quantity – When you make purchases in huge quantities or in bulk, you benefit from discounts which makes costs cheaper. This means buying in single units are quite costly.
- Brand – Famous brands will mostly cost much more than those who are not well-known.
- Customization – Based on your customization needs like knockouts, interior panels, cut outs, etc prices can go higher or low.
- Shipping costs – With enclosures that are heavy and large, you will pay more for shipping and handling compared to those that are small and light.
Where to use NEMA 4X Enclosure
Below are some places where NEMA 4X outdoor enclosure can be used:
- Chemical processing plants to withstand fumes and chemicals that are corrosive.
- Can be used in pharmaceutical facilities
- Marine environments to ensure saltwater corrosion is prevented.
- NEMA 4X outdoor enclosure can be used in food and beverage processing plants to keep electrical parts safe.
- Can be used for outdoor electrical installations
- Used in waste water treatment facilities
- To protect electrical components against dust, water, moisture, chemicals, etc.
Conclusion
If you are installing your electrical equipment in environments prone to corrosion, then choosing NEMA 4X enclosure is a perfect alternative.
It provides protection according to NEMA 4 in addition to the corrosion resistance.
