8 Reasons to Select Non-Metallic Enclosures

December 8, 2020

The benefits of non-metallic enclosures versus stainless steel enclosures are many and, when considered together, establish a very clear imperative for selecting non-metallics.

It is important that you always consult AttaBox Enclosures for input in meeting application-specific needs in that individual non-metallic enclosure products each feature their own physical performance attributes.

In general, however, the reasons for using non-metallic enclosures are as follows:

REASON #1.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES ARE MORE COST-EFFECTIVE THAN STAINLESS STEEL.

Users of stainless steel enclosures have been paying a premium because of repeated stainless steel price increases. Non-metallic enclosures, especially those in smaller sizes, can be significantly less expensive than stainless steel and larger sizes on non-metallic enclosures are comparable and competitive with stainless steel in terms of cost.

REASON #2.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES PROVIDE MORE DESIGN FLEXIBILITY THAN STAINLESS STEEL.

Although stainless steel can be alloyed in various grades, the ability to custom formulate non-metallic composites offers tremendously more practical, cost-effective versatility in designing for specific property performance. Additionally, in both standard and customized non-metallic enclosures, it is possible to design molded-in features without the need – as with stainless steel – to add on components through welding or mechanical devices.

REASON #3.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES ENSURE GREATER DIMENSIONAL STABILITY THAN STAINLESS STEEL.

Non-metallic enclosures provide a low coefficient of thermal expansion compared to stainless steel. That means significantly improved dimensional stability and assurance of reliable sealing. Non-metallic enclosures also provide consistent part-to-part quality over stainless steel alternatives, helping to ensure long- term reliability of product performance.

REASON #4.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES ARE CORROSION RESISTANT

Non-metallic enclosures provide excellent corrosion and chemical resistance compared to metallics such as aluminum and painted or galvanized steel and are very comparable to that of stainless steel. With non-metallics, enclosure maintenance is virtually eliminated.

Although stainless steels are used in corrosion-resistant applications, the fact of the matter is in some environments they are subject to degradation and damage by pitting, crevice, stress cracking, sulfide stress cracking, intergranular, galvanic, and contact types of corrosion.

Certain non-metallic enclosures, such as composite fiberglass, also offer excellent chemical resistance to halogens (Chlorine, Fluorine) and are acceptable for use in most environments involving acids, alkalines, and solvents.

REASON #5.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES ARE EASIER TO CUSTOMIZE AND MODIFY THAN STAINLESS STEEL

All manner of modifications including cutouts, holes, windows, vents, and the incorporation of accessories, can be easily achieved when working with non-metallic enclosures. This is a tremendous potential labor and cost savings compared with the relative difficulty of modifying stainless steel.

With less cutting pressure required, standard shop tools are generally up-to-the-job whereas specialty equipment is frequently required for cutting stainless steel. Again: this means a reduction of costly labor time and savings through increased cutting tool life.

Always consider asking AttaBox® To handle modifications for you through our factory-based ModRight® program designed and proven to provide you our expertise and reliable precision in modifying your enclosures exactly to your need and delivering them on-time ready to use “out of the box.”

REASON #6.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES ARE LIGHTER WEIGHT AND EASIER TO HANDLE THAN STAINLESS STEEL

Non-metallic enclosures weigh 4 times less than stainless steel – a key aspect in shipping cost reduction and minimized labor costs due to ease-of-installation. Despite reduced weight, non-metallic enclosures also provide improved strength to weight ratio over stainless steel, giving users the best of two key benefits!

REASON #7.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES PROVIDE ELECTRICAL INSULATION

Non-metallic enclosures provide optimal dielectric strength as an electrical insulator versus the electrical conductivity of all metals. Non-metallic enclosures do not require grounding to ensure safety against indirect and direct contact.

REASON #8.

NON-METALLIC ENCLOSURES PROVIDE UNIQUE AESTHETIC BENEFITS

With non-metallic enclosures, users benefit from the attributes of smooth, rounded edges and no sharp corners. Non-metallic enclosures also offer the truly important aesthetic benefit of molded-in colors.

In the comparison of non-metallic enclosures to stainless steel enclosures, the winning edge clearly goes to non-metallic.

https://attabox.com/2020/11/11/8-reasons-to-select-non-metallic-enclosures/