When we think of traffic management, the first things that come to mind are likely congested roads, traffic signals, or temporary roadworks setups. However, behind all of the cones and cameras lies sensitive electrical equipment that needs robust protection to function in outdoor environments.
As part of our ongoing series exploring Rittal’s impact across industries, today we're taking a closer look at how Rittal helps to shape the traffic sector while setting new industry expectations.
Durable Outdoor Enclosures
The nature of the traffic management industry means the enclosure must be up to the unique challenges of an outdoor environment. Factors like weather exposure must be a key consideration as overlooking this aspect can seriously damage the sensitive equipment within.
Although there are various standards that an outdoor installation must comply with, the exact material of the protective housing is not explicitly stated, other than that the material chosen must be suitable for the intended application. Therefore, the materials need to be thoroughly weighed up before committing to one option when there are a few options available. Too often, choices are made based on stereotypes or assumptions which can lead to disappointment.
The three main options are usually between stainless steel, aluminium, and plastic, which all have their place in traffic management systems.
Often, standard stainless steel enclosures from a supplier’s standard portfolio are intended for indoor application; sometimes this can go unnoticed, leading to disappointment when the enclosure then does not perform well under outdoor weather conditions. Although the material can be suitable for outdoor use, extra attention must be paid to factors including IP protection class, the air temperature and humidity, and security measures. The door seals must also be protected, usually in the form of a rain hood, stopping water from permeating the sealant.
Aluminium enclosures are well-suited for traffic management systems because of its lightweight properties, easy to process, and its good corrosion resistance.
Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) is a great choice for traffic management. Equally lightweight and durable, GRP will not rust, making it well-suited for roadside placement where rainwater, road debris, and pollutants can accelerate corrosion.
So as you can see, there are quite a few viable alternatives for enclosure materials depending on your priorities.
Traffic Management Systems Don’t Have To Be Temporary
With the rise of microelectronics and new electronic components, more attention is paid to the requirements for removing heat from enclosures and equipment. This is important to prevent overheating, which can shorten the lifespan of the equipment. The use of fans, heat exchangers, and air conditioning systems can help prevent overheating and extend the life of the equipment in the enclosure.
While removing excess heat is often the first concern for outdoor enclosures, it's equally important to consider the risks posed by low temperatures. Cold conditions can lead to issues such as condensation, which may require the use of enclosure heaters to mitigate. So, while overheating is a valid challenge, equipment that becomes too cold or exposed to damp conditions can be just as damaging.
Traffic management systems are often considered temporary because they’re typically used for short-term projects. Ranging from roadworks, event management, and construction detours, these setups need to be quickly deployed and moved at a moment’s notice. Therefore, the focus tends to be on portability and speed rather than permanence or longevity.
Even with these temporary installations, protecting the sensitive equipment inside should be a priority. Outdoor enclosures are constantly exposed to the elements, physical impacts (like mowing or passing vehicles), and general wear and tear. Durable enclosures ensure that the internal components remain protected and functional throughout the duration of the project.
Final Thoughts
At Rittal, we recognise that each traffic management application has unique requirements and will need to suit your specific needs. Our enclosures are designed for easy integration and can be customised for your application, ensuring that all traffic control equipment is securely housed and protected.
By choosing Rittal's outdoor enclosures, your traffic management systems can achieve enhanced reliability, security, and longevity, guaranteeing smooth and safe transportation networks.
