Introduction
Rittal manufactures a broad selection of enclosures for a near-infinite variety of applications. We want to make it clear exactly what it is that we do and explain the many facets of our company.
We are a global leader in enclosures, power distribution, climate control, and IT infrastructure solutions. Founded in Germany 1961, our business is known worldwide for the high-quality enclosures and innovative approach to manufacturing and automation.
For this blog, our sole focus is enclosures, and the various different types of products we have on offer.
Our enclosures vary widely from one another. The essence of enclosures is that they are protective shells that can safeguard sensitive equipment from environmental factors. Some environmental factors that require consideration include protection from dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. All of our enclosures are designed with these environmental complications in mind.
Floor-standing Enclosures
The first category of enclosure type is floor-standing.
The VX25 large enclosure system exemplifies this category. The modular design means you can easily expand, customise, and downsize at any point in the enclosure lifecycle, without the extra headache of having to replace anything.
All of our enclosures are constructed from robust materials. Our floor-standing range predominantly uses sheet steel, but we also offer stainless steel options. With the high IP rating of 55, our enclosures feature respectable protection ratings against dust and moisture.
Their high durability and physical protection ensures they are suitable for diverse applications like manufacturing, food and beverage, and automation sectors.
Wall-Mounted Enclosures
Our next category is our wall-mounted enclosures. The most obvious feature that differentiates this category is the ability for the enclosure to attach to a wall. This feature can act as a protective shield for sensitive assets that prioritises security and safety. This enclosure could be a smart choice if you need to optimise a smaller layout, like within an office or industrial production environment.
Available in plastic, sheet steel, or stainless steel, the choice of material will depend on the desired environment. Our wall-mounted enclosures such as the Rittal AX or KX range boast an impressive IP rating up to 66, which ensures great protection for your critical infrastructure.
The AX plastic enclosures are especially suitable for those looking for cost-effective and flexible solutions. The plastic material choice provides great durability, making it ideal for either indoor or outdoor applications. The high UV resistance means the enclosures can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without deterioration. The AX enclosures have also received a high fire retardancy rating and a specific UL F1 outdoor approval rating.
Another notable feature of our wall-mounted enclosures are the internal rail systems. This system refers to the versatile framework that allows for flexible, customisable interior installation of enclosure components, negating the need for extra machining. This is particularly advantageous for securing electrical and IT components because of their efficient space utilisation, enabling precise positioning of your equipment.
The KX series, created using sheet steel or stainless steel, offers an even more compact wall-mounted enclosure option. Primarily designed for indoor industrial environments, the KX is a good choice for protecting smaller electrical components.
Compact Enclosures
Our compact enclosures, such as the AX series, are specifically designed for applications where space is limited. These smaller enclosures also provide stellar IP protection while taking up less floor or wall space.
The AX compact enclosure features enclosure locators in the roof, base, and sides, which simplify the installation process. With a 25 mm system pitch pattern, these enclosures offer flexible interior installation options.
They are available in both sheet steel, stainless steel, and plastic, so business owners can choose the material that best suits their needs. Unsure about which material might be best for you? Check out our blog on how to select the right material for your industrial enclosure.
Worried about environmental stressors? Our compact enclosures may be small but they are definitely mighty. This range also achieves high protection ratings of up to IP66 and IK10. Durability is a priority, whether they are installed inside a factory setting or exposed to challenging outdoor environments. Sizes range from small wall-mounted units to larger floor-standing options so there’s a design for every application.
Specialist Enclosures
Within the specialist enclosure section, we have two more options: outdoor and ATEX enclosures. The enclosures included in this segment are used in applications where the environmental conditions are much harsher.
1. Outdoor Enclosures
Our outdoor enclosures are engineered to excel in harsh environmental conditions, making them ideal for industries like telecommunications and transportation. Similarly to other enclosures, our outdoor range is also highly protected against dust, water, and extreme temperatures.
The overhanging roof prevents rain water sitting on the door seals. This then prevents the possibility of the door seals breaking down over time, since rainwater can be extremely aggressive on sealant materials. The overhanging roof design means rain water doesn’t have the chance to come into contact with the door seal. The double-wall design creates an air pocket that results in a thermal barrier, helping to combat condensation and heat absorption from sunlight. Louvred grills furthermore aid airflow and climate control.
Security is a key concern for outdoor installations. The labyrinth effect design is a deterrent since the panels need to be dismantled in a specific order; the thieves and vandals would not easily figure this out in a time-sensitive situation. The double-skinned design combined with this labyrinth effect greatly reduces the chances of unauthorised entry into the panels.
These great security measures also result in less downtime for the user. If a panel becomes damaged, rather than having to relocate or replace the full enclosure, you simply replace the sole panels that are damaged, negating the need for unnecessary replacements and time-wasting procedures.
The type of enclosure material is arguably even more important for outdoor enclosures. While stainless steel is an undeniably popular choice, oftentimes we recommend the underdog of aluminium. Aluminium oxidises to create a self-regenerating protective barrier, offering better longevity in most environments. It also provides a better strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for thinner yet robust sheets that increase interior space and reduce material costs. Still not convinced? Read even more reasons to make the switch on our blog post, Rittal’s Guide to Outdoor Enclosures.
2. ATEX Enclosures
A niche subcategory of our outdoor enclosures, our ATEX enclosures are specifically tailored to withstand explosive atmospheres. Located in spaces like petrol stations and offshore energy production, these IEC-approved enclosures are made using stainless steel or plastic. The silicone gaskets furthermore deliver effective sealing against dust and moisture.
With certifications for Zones 1 and 2 as well as Zones 21 and 22, these enclosures can provide vital protection for electrical components within environments that demand increased safety measures.
Conclusion
So, when you asked, 'What Does Rittal Do?' The answer is clear. One aspect of our business is providing innovative enclosure solutions tailored to meet the needs of modern industrial landscapes. From the large floor-standing enclosures to the space-saving compact ones, we have an enclosure for every operational need.
Want to hear more about what we do here at Rittal? Stay in the loop with our recurring blog series, ‘What Does Rittal Do’, where we will continue to explore all facets of our company.
