Why customers need NEMA testing?

NEMA Standards: Thorough Protection Assessment

Although IP ratings are recognized worldwide, NEMA ratings offer a broader perspective on safeguarding against environmental factors, particularly in North America. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association specifies various waterproof classifications, such as NEMA 4X, NEMA 6, and NEMA 6P.

NEMA Enclosure Evaluations

NEMA testing methods encompass:

NEMA 4X Testing: The housing undergoes water spray from a 1-inch nozzle at a rate of 65 gallons per minute from a distance of 10 feet for 5 minutes from each of five angles (excluding the base). Along with the hose-down test, NEMA 4X enclosures are required to show corrosion resistance via salt spray testing—generally 200 hours of exposure to a salt fog environment according to ASTM B117 standards.

NEMA 6 Testing: The waterproof housing equivalent undergoes temporary immersion tests in which the housing is submerged in water at a depth of 6 feet for 30 minutes. In contrast to IP testing, NEMA additionally mandates that the enclosure endure ice formation on it without incurring damage.

NEMA 6P Testing: This encompasses all NEMA 6 standards along with extended submersion testing (usually for 24 hours or longer). These structures must preserve their stability for prolonged durations while submerged. This renders them appropriate for use in regions vulnerable to flooding.

What makes NEMA testing especially stringent is the incorporation of extra environmental factors in addition to water ingress. For example, NEMA ratings take into account external icing, corrosive conditions, and (specifically for NEMA 7 and NEMA 8) explosion protection—elements not solely covered by IP ratings.

Photos demonstrating a waterproof enclosure

Showcasing an IP68 waterproof enclosure

Although Shinging lacks the facilities for laboratory testing, we possess images of an IP68 / NEMA 6P enclosure that was submerged in one meter of water for over 30 minutes. This demonstration illustrates the efficacy of a suitably rated waterproof enclosure.

How Companies Maintain Dependability in Harsh Environments

Choosing the correctly rated enclosure is merely the initial step. To ensure ongoing protection in harsh conditions, companies should adopt various practices:

Take into account the complete surroundings: Certain gasket materials may break down when subjected to specific industrial chemicals or high temperatures, and some plastics utilized in enclosure assembly can weaken when exposed to sunlight. In addition to water, consider temperature changes, UV radiation, and chemical exposure that could weaken seals over time.

Conduct routine maintenance: Even the finest enclosures need to have their gaskets and seals checked, especially in challenging conditions. Counsel clients to create a preventive maintenance timetable according to the intensity of circumstances. In particularly difficult situations, quarterly evaluations may be required. Suggestion: a container with a transparent plastic lid will enable examination without having to open the container in the field.

Correct installation is crucial: Even the toughest enclosure will fail if cable glands and access points aren’t adequately sealed during installation. Adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for torque settings on enclosure hardware. Utilize cable glands for cable access and employ gaskets around openings for switches, indicator lights, and displays. Keep in mind that the protection rating is valid for the enclosure solely prior to any modifications involving holes and cutouts.

Ensure compliance documentation: Request test reports from producers that outline the exact test parameters utilized to reach the asserted ratings. Well-known manufacturers such as Bud Industries offer this documentation to confirm their waterproof IP enclosure products fulfill or surpass the declared protection standards.

Think about third-party validation: For essential applications, certain companies choose to conduct extra verification tests that go beyond the manufacturer's assertions. Independent labs can verify that an enclosure satisfies the particular requirements for your specific application scenario.

When appropriately chosen and cared for, a waterproof enclosure ensures the safety of your delicate electronics and electrical parts, whether subjected to regular factory washdowns or unexpected weather conditions. By comprehending the evaluations behind these ratings, engineers can make knowledgeable choices that guarantee the dependable functionality of their designs throughout their entire service life.