Definition of NEMA 5 Enclosure
An NEMA 5 enclosure is a kind of electrical container that keeps dirt, debris, and non-corrosive liquids from getting into electrical systems.
In this article, we will look at the degree of protection NEMA 5 enclosure offers.
Besides, we will recommend some common applications and guide you through the process of choosing NEMA 5 electrical enclosure.
Let’s dive right in:
What is NEMA 5 Enclosure?
NEMA 5 enclosure is a type of electrical enclosure that is fabricated in accordance with National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards.
The electrical enclosure is fabricated main for indoor applications. Owing to the unique construction designs, it protects your electrical components from dust, and accidental contact with electrical parts.
Protection Level for NEMA 5 Enclosure Rating
NEMA 5 is used for indoor environments like factories and warehouses. You cannotuse NEMA 5 enclosure systems in outdoor environments. This is because the construction is not robust enough provide protection against rain water or snow.
These enclosures are designed to protect you electrical systems from:
- Falling dirt; these enclosures will help prevent falling of foreign particles or dirt. They protect electrical components from dirt or any other foreign particles in indoor environment.
- Dust blown from any direction; NEMA 5 enclosure offers protection against dust particles that would fall and interfere with the operation of the equipment.
Light moisture protection; therefore they will offer protection only for light dripping or condensation. However they are not meant for heavy water exposure or wet areas, more so in the outdoor environments.
How to Choose NEMA 5 Enclosure
Choosing the right NEMA 5 rated electrical enclosure is an uphill task. It even becomes challenging to ascertain whether an electrical enclosure conforms with NEMA 5 or not just by looking at it.
However, there are certain variables that will help you choose the right electrical enclosure that complies with NEMA 5 standards.
Let’s look at to 6 factors to consider
1. Enclosure Material
NEMA 5 enclosures can be made of different materials such as plastics, steels, or aluminum. Each material offer unique performance criteria.
Plastic is lightweight and cost effective. However plastic made NEMA 5 enclosure are not suitable for extremely harsh environmental conditions.
Steel and aluminum provide resistance and durability .You can use this when your environment can be at risk of physical damage. You can also learn more about electrical enclosure materials.
2. Enclosure Design
Check on which design you will need. There are many options you can consider – from vented, wall mounted tofloor mounted enclosure. Floor mounted enclosures are suitable for large equipment. On the other hand wall mounted enclosures are suitable for control panels that need to be easily accessible.
Ideally, the design you choose will depending on your applications. At KDMFAB, our team will advise you on the right design for electrical enclosure once you tell us your application requirements.
3. Features of Enclosure
Apart from the design, the features also play a fundamental role in determining whether your enclosures conforms to NEMA 5 standards or not.
Among the key fundamental features of NEMA 5 rated electrical enclosures are:
- Mostly continuous welded construction
- Gasket for sealing
- Flush fitted covers
- Latching mechanism
Additional features such as viewing windows are incredible. If you want to monitor internal equipment without opening the enclosure, and then choose this version.
Locking mechanism is also another feature for added security if the enclosure is housing sensitive equipment.
4. Security Mechanism
Security and protection are important aspects a NEMA 5 enclosure. These may include locking mechanism, or alarm systems.
5. Durability
Depending on the materials that the enclosures are made of durability is a factor to consider when choosing a NEMA 5 enclosure. Other factors such as construction and design also play a fundamental role.
But more importantly, buying from reputable electrical enclosure manufacturer is also critical
6. Size
Internal and external dimensions are key when choosing NEMA 5 enclosures. For external dimensions, consider the space that you have for installation. The space should allow for installation of other additional accessories.
For internal dimensions, ensure the enclosure is large enough to install all your electrical components. More importantly, the space should allow for any inspection or if possible for future installations or upgrades.
Where to use NEMA Type 5 Enclosure
NEMA 5 enclosures are mostly used in indoors set up such as warehouses, or in factories. It is made of different materials depending with the requirements and standards of your industry.
These enclosures will be good for use in dusty environments inside your manufacturing plants or warehouses. Therefore you can use NEMA 5 to house controls for machines that need to be protected from dirt and dust particles.
You can use these enclosures in commercial buildings too to protect electrical control panels, HVAC systems, air conditioning units that are in your indoor environment.
For sensitive components in electrical enclosures you will use NEMA 5 to protect switches, sensors and other electrical control components.
In short, in any indoor environment where you feel your components will be subjected to dust and mild moisture, always go for NEMA 5 enclosure.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between NEMA 4 and NEMA 5 Enclosure?
| NEMA 4 | NEMA 5 |
| A water tight enclosure | Mostly dust tight enclosure |
| They can be used both indoors and outdoors | They can be used only indoors |
| Are designed to protect against rain, snow, splashing water and horse directed water. | Are designed to protect against falling dirt and flying debris, dust particles and settling airborne dust. |
| Are resistant to damage from external ice formation. |
2. What is the NEMA 5 Electrical Enclosure Price?
NEMA 5 electrical enclosure prices range from 4.5 USD.
However, it is important to note that the prices vary based on numerous factors.
For more specific prices you can contact KDMFAB. We will give you quotation based on your design.
In general, smaller enclosures for switches or small control panels can be affordable as compared to bigger NEMA 5 enclosures.
Custom made enclosures such as those with locking mechanisms can be highly priced than those that are not customized. But even the customized options, KDMFAB offers competitive electrical enclosure prices.
How does NEMA 5 vs. NEMA 6 Compare?
| NEMA 5 | NEMA 6 |
| Offers dust protection | Offers dust protection |
| Gives protection only to light wet environment or condensation. | Give heavy water protection even in submersion |
| Used primarily for indoor protection | Can be used for both indoors and outdoors environments |
| Corrosion resistance is limited depending on the material | It is corrosion resistance hence durable |
| Priced a little lower because they have no additional features | Priced highly due to more additional features |
Conclusion
In summary, NEMA 5 is ideal for indoor environment where protection from dust and dirt is necessary. With the above information, you can easily choose NEMA 5 rated electrical enclosure that perfectly meet your indoor protection needs.