Download - Control Panel Technical Guide · of the protection requirements of outdoor enclosures Sun Climatic events Rain Pollution Mechanical impacts/ Vandalism Vegetation Equipment protection:

Control PanelTechnical GuideHow can the deterioration of electrical equipment installed in an outdoor enclosure be prevented?

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"You have questions about installing electrical enclosures outdoors. Here are the expert answers you have been waiting for".

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Contents

•Whataspectsoftheoutdoorenvironmentshouldbeconsidered?

•Whatenclosurematerialshouldbepreferred,dependingonthetypeofenvironment?

•Howcantheequipmentinsidetheenclosurebeprotectedagainstpollution?

Assessing the installation environment

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•Whyisanenclosurethatisperfectlysuitableforindoorinstallationnotalwaysappropriate

foroutdoorinstallation?

•Whatarethepossibleconsequencesofchoosingthewrongenclosure?

•Whatparametersshouldbetakenintoaccountwhenchoosinganoutdoorenclosure?

Outdoor installation: parameters and consequences

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•Doesahighdegreeofprotection(IP)preservethedevicesinsidetheenclosurefromdegradation?

•Whichcriteriaprovideuswithinformationabouttheresistanceleveloftheenclosure?

•Howcancondensationbepreventedfromforminginsidetheenclosure?

•WhatIPdegreeofprotectionisrequiredforanoutdoorinstallation?

•WhatIKdegreeofprotectionisrequiredforanoutdoorinstallation?

•HowcantheIPdegreeofprotectionbemaintainedthroughoutthelifecycleoftheinstallation?

Degree of protection required for the installation 11 - 15

Level of safety of people

16•Howcanthesafetyofpeople(andthatoftheinstallation)bemaximised?

•Howdoesthethermalmanagementofoutdoorenclosuresdifferfromthatofindoorenclosures?

•Whatsolutionscanbeusedtoreducethetemperatureinsidetheenclosure?

Thermal management

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Frequently asked questions

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•Howcananelectricalenclosurebesuccessfullyinstalledoutdoors?

Worksheet

22 - 25Overview of Schneider Electric universal enclosures

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Accidental or early degradation of outdoor electrical enclosures is not always due to exceptional climatic events and/or the quality of the enclosure.

Our experience shows that in most cases, unusual enclosure deterioration is closely related to design errors: •Noinstallationenvironmentinformationcollectedorinsufficientinformationcollected

•Inappropriatechoiceofmaterialand/orthermalmanagementsolutions

•nsufficientknowledgeofproductsspecificallydesignedforoutdoorinstallation

•Seekingcheapproductstothedetrimentofenclosurequalityandequipmentprotection

•etc.

To help you implement your outdoor installation project and take the right decisions, we have compiled the "Outdoor electrical enclosures" guide.

This technical guide contains a mine of Schneider Electric's experience and know-how and was based on the questions our customers ask ... or do not think of asking. The answers are the keys to a successful "installation environment /electrical enclosure" combination.

It also proves that an enclosure installed outdoors does not always call for a maximum degree of IP.

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Installinganelectricalenclosureoutdoorsnecessarily

involvesexposingitcontinuallytomanyfactors:

•Moisture

•Ingressofsolidbodies(e.g.dust)andliquids(e.g.rainwater,stagnantwater,roadcleaningwater,etc.)

•Sun(UVrays)

•Ambientairquality(e.g.salineenvironment,pollution,etc.)

•Climaticevents(wind,hail,snow,etc.)

•Mechanicalimpacts(vegetation,treebranches,roadcleaningvehicles,etc.)

•People(primaryvandalismorintrusion)

•Animals(birddroppings,dogandcatfaeces)

Serious

•Prematuredegradationoftheenclosureandthedevicesinstalledinside:shorterinstallationservicelife

•Interruptedcontinuityofservice:malfunction,installationoutage

•Lossofprotectionforequipmentandpeople

Expensive

•Frequentcurativemaintenance

•Correctiveactionimplementation

•Devicereplacement

e.g. In the metallurgical industry,

one hour of outage = 50,000 €

Outdoor installation: parameters and consequences

"Why is an enclosure that is perfectly

suitable for indoor installation not always appropriate for outdoor installation?"

"What are the possible consequences of

choosing the wrong enclosure?"

Because when it is installed outdoors, the electrical enclosure is exposed for long periods to a large number of aggressive conditions that are liable to damage it

• Service outage• Degradation/Replacement of devices inside the enclosure (and the enclosure itself)

Overview of the protection requirements of outdoor enclosures

Sun

Climaticevents

Rain

Pollution

Mechanicalimpacts/Vandalism

Vegetation

Equipment protection: Thermalmanagementsystem(doorcontactandthermostat).

Environmental protection: Canopy.

Safety of people: Groundingaccessories.ClassIIinsulation.

Safety of people and intrusion protection:Dooraccessories(lock).

Equipment protection:Cableentry.

Equipment protection: Thermalmanagementsystem(heatingresistor,air-conditioning).

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The installation environment

•Theinstallationsite(geographicallocation,marketsegment,onlandoratsea,etc.)anditsenvironment(exposuretoweather,UVrays,aggressivesubstances,airquality,etc.)

Installation protection

•Enclosurematerialproperties

•Tightnesslevel(IPdegree)

•Impactresistance(IKdegree)

Safety of people

•Safetyoftheinstallation

•Protectionagainstelectricalhazard

•Protectionagainstfirehazard

Enclosure thermal management

•Estimatedthermaldissipationrequirementandanticipationofthermalmanagementsolutions(activeorpassive)

Apartfromthethermaldissipationrelatedtoelectricalandelectronicdevices,

thermalmanagementlimitstheclimaticeffectsontheswitchgearandonthe

enclosure:operatingtemperature,condensation,etc.

"What parameters should be taken into account when choosing an outdoor enclosure?"

4 main factors should be taken into account: • The installation environment• Installation protection• Safety of people• Enclosure thermal management

Traps to be avoided

• Choosing your electrical enclosure without carrying out a detailed assessment of the installation site and its requirements in terms of the protection of equipment and people.

• Concentrating on the price. At the risk of missing the most important point: the service life of the installation.

Expert advice

• No parameter should be ignored. Take the time to analyse the situation and, if need be, ask for help in making your decision. Choosing the wrong solution can be costly in the long run (e.g. maintenance costs and corrective actions).

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Climatic conditions

•Temperaturelevels(seasonalmeasurements)

•Historyofclimaticevents

•Rainfallrecordedonthesite

•ExposuretoUVrays

•Windstrength

•etc.

Air quality

•Moisturecontent

•Pollutionlevel(corrosivesubstances)

•Presenceofmicroscopicdust

Exposure to aggressive substances

e.g.dogurine,birddroppings,roadsalt,chemicals(exposuregenerallyrelatedtothemarketsegment:petrochemical,solventmanufacture,textileindustry,etc.).

Exposure to impacts

•Fallingstones,branches,treetrunks,etc.thatmayhitanddamagetheenclosure(paintwork)

•Plantsinthevicinityoftheinstallationthatareamajorsourceofhumidity

•Actsofvandalism


"What aspects of the outdoor environment should be considered?"

None should be ignored. But priority should be given to:• Climatic conditions• Air quality• Exposure to aggressive substances• Exposure to mechanical impacts

Expert advice

• Gather as much information as possible about the installation environment. If no useful data is available, it is best to use an enclosure made from insulating material by default.

• For electrical enclosures installed outdoors, the natural ventilation of the enclosure is often more important than a high level of tightness.

Examples of the effects of the environment on the installation:

• Water = loss of tightness

• Humidity = risk of corrosion of the enclosure and oxidation of the components

• Lush vegetation = deterioration of the surface treatment, source of humidity

• Air pollution = reduction in the lifetime of the installation

• Vandalism = damage to the enclosure and internal components, reduces the safety level of the installation.

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Theplacewheretheenclosureistobeinstalledandtheoutdoorconditionstowhichitwillbeexposedwillinfluencethechoiceofenclosuremodeltobeused.Andparticularlyitsmaterial.

Materials Advantages Market segment To be avoidedStandard steel + polyester based paint (standard on Schneider Electric enclosures)

•Moreeconomical•Idealforindoor

installation (standard conditions)

•Mechanicalindustry

•Outdoorenvironment orindoorenvironmentwith a high moisture content (> 80%)

•Salineatmospheres

Standard steel + special surface treatment (on request on Schneider Electric enclosures)

•Idealforindoorinstallation (harsh conditions) or outdoor installation (sheltered)

•Specificindustries.

e.g. cement, bottling, etc.

•Sitesexposedtomechanicalimpacts:vegetation,flying stones, contact with thepublic(riskofscratchesorimpacts),actsofvandalism,etc.

Stainless steel (304L*)

•Idealforlocationswithstrict hygiene rules

•Transportinfrastructures,ports,streetlighting,biotechnology, medical, water distribution networks,agro-foodanddrinksindustry,etc.

•Salineatmospheres•Presenceofchlorine

Stainless steel (316L**)

•Idealforlocationswithstrict hygiene rules

•Salineatmosphereresistance

•Ports,oil&gas, industry,agro-food

ABS or Polycarbonate

•Light•Electricalhazard

protection•Corrosionprotection

•Transportinfrastructures,ports,oil&gas,streetlighting, water distribution networks,marineindustry,etc.

Fibreglass-reinforced polyester

•Harshindoorandoutdoorenvironments

•Salineatmosphereresistance (corrosion)

•Light•Highimpactresistance•Electricalhazard

protection(insulatingmaterial)

•Transportinfrastructures,ports,oil&gas,streetlighting, water distribution networks,marineindustry,etc.

Just read on!

* Composition: 18% chromium and 8% nickel.

** Composition: 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. Nickel and molybdenum are more resistant to chemical aggression, whilst chromium provides a surface protection film. The resistance properties of stainless steel are related to its chemical composition.

Expert advice

• Stainless steel enclosures are particularly appropriate for corrosive environments or locations where specific hygiene rules must be observed.

• In the event of a high moisture content: avoid standard steel (without surface treatment).

• In the event of exposure to mechanical aggressions: avoid standard steel enclosures. Even with a special surface treatment.

• Whatever the material, avoid exposing the electrical enclosure to direct sunlight (limit the internal T°).

"What enclosure material should be preferred, depending on the type of environment?"

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Some basic rules for reducing dust infiltration

and the effects of pollution:

Provide the required minimum ventilationNotmorethantheamountneededforthermaldissipation(seeProClimasoftware+Heat

optimisationguide).

A high IP degree of protection ispreferableSchneiderElectricenclosuressupportadegreeof

protectionuptoIP54.

Use an air-conditioning system with filters that

are appropriate for polluted environments

Fit a protective canopy to the enclosureAslopingcanopytopreventwaterstagnationanddustaccumulationonthetopoftheenclosure.


• Moderate ventilation • IP54• Air-conditioning with anti-pollution filters• Fit a canopy to the enclosure

"How can the equipment inside the enclosure be protected against

pollution?"

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Degree of protection required for the installation

Outdoorinstallationsareparticularlyexposedtothephenomenonofcondensation.

However, a high IP degree of protection is not the solution to the condensation problem.On the other hand, it may be the cause:

•Theneedforprotection(IPdegree)canbeoverestimatedwithrespecttothephysicalconstraintsoftheinstallationenvironment(e.g.lightrainfall,ventilatedarea,etc.).

•hephenomenonofcondensationisgenerallyencounteredoninstallationswherethedegreeofprotectionis≥IP

54.

Causes of the condensation phenomenon on outdoor installations

•Climaticconditions

•Highairmoisturecontent

•Moisturecontentinsidetheenclosure

•Temperaturereduction(e.g.day/night,ground/externalT°,etc.)

•Lackofventilation

Most common sources of humidity

•Theatmosphere

•Waterinfiltrations

•Waterinracewaysand/orcableducts

•Presenceoflushvegetationaroundthe

installation

Sources of temperature variations

•Unforeseenclimaticevents

•Excessivecooling

•Missingheatingcontrolsystem

"Does a high degree of protection (IP) preserve the devices inside the enclosure from degradation?"

No, not necessarily.

Expert advice

• Do not ignore humidity that may arise from the cable entries.

Remember

• An electrical enclosure installed outdoors does not always imply a maximum degree of IP.

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"Which criteria provide us with information about the resistance level of the enclosure?"

Three main elements:• The material of the enclosure• Its degree of protection (IP degree)• Its impact resistance (IK degree)

FOCUS ON... The properties of polyester

In comparison with other materials, polyester presents unique advantages for installing electrical enclosures outdoors (and indoors):

• Non-conductive material (protection against electrical hazard)

• High resistance: against impacts, climatic conditions, chemicals, temperature, mechanical aggressions, etc.

• Self-extinguishing

• Light

• Easy to modify/machine as required

• Maintenance free

• Conforms to the RoHS and REACH directives

Material strength comparison

Standard steelStandard steel + surface treatment

Stainless steelABS or Polycarbonate


Oxidation strength

Mechanical strength

Electrical strength

Degree of protection (IP degree)TheIPspecifiesthedegreeofprotectionofpeopleagainstdirectcontactsandthedegreeofprotectionofdevicesagainstcertainexternalinfluences:ingressofforeignbodies(1stdigitoftheIPcode–0to5)andtheharmfuleffectsoftheingressofwater(2nddigitoftheIPcode–0to8).Irrespectiveofwhereitisinstalled(indoorsoroutdoors).

Examples:IP 43"Solidforeignbodies"protection=4:protectionagainstsolidforeignbodies>1mmindiameter(e.g.thintools,finewires)"Water"protection=3:Protectionagainstfallingdropsofwaterupto60°fromthevertical

IP 54"Solidforeignbodies"protection=5:protectionagainstdust,withnoharmfuldeposit"Water"protection=4:protectionagainstwatersprayfromalldirections

Degree of impact resistance (IK degree)TheIKspecifiesthedegreeofprotectionoftheenclosureagainstmechanicalimpacts(e.g.fallingorflyingstones,branchesoftrees,kicks,etc.).ThetwodigitsafterthelettersIK(from00to10),indicatethedegreeofresistancetoimpactforwhichtheenergyisexpressedinJoules.

Examples:IK 08Theequipmentisprotectedagainstanimpactequivalenttoa1.25kgweightfallingfromaheightof40cm(impactenergy=5Joules).

Remember

• The IP degree of protection does not refer to protecting equipment against corrosion.

For further information...

See the full IP and IK degree table on page 21 of the guide.

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A few measures that can be taken against the formation of water from condensation inside the enclosure:

Increase the air flowNaturalventilationandpassivesolutionsshouldbepreferred.Anotherpartialsolutionistouseblowers toincreasetheairflow.Withthistypeofsolution,evenifthedewpointisreached,condensation willformmainlyonthepoorlyventilatedareas.

Ideally, a heating system should be installed, depending on the humidityAheatingresistorcombinedwithahygrothermisstillthesurestwaytoreducethemoisturecontent.

Ensure that the enclosure is drainedTodothis,somecustomersdrillaholeinthebottomoftheenclosure.Ifnecessary,theyinclinetheenclosureandallowthecondensationwatertoflowtowardsthehole.Thismayappearaverymakeshiftsolution, butitstillworks.Theuseofadrainplugisstronglyrecommended.N.B.:methodtobeavoidedforsteelenclosures(riskofcorrosion).

Limit sources such as:

•Stagnant water

•Lushvegetation(sourceofhumidity)

"How can condensation be prevented from forming inside the enclosure?"

Firstly: by controlling the temperature and the moisture content inside the enclosure

Expert advice

• If the installation environment allows, limited IP degrees of protection (IP 43 or IP 54) are preferred to encourage natural ventilation of the enclosure (Passive thermal management solution).

• Maintain the internal temperature above the dew point to prevent the air from becoming moisture-laden. To control it: install a thermostat and a heating resistor or a moisture controller (for advanced temperature control).

• With respect to air-conditioning: always place your trust in a recognised provider and clearly define your needs (e.g. temper, cool certain areas, etc.).

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Eveniftheresistanceandservicelife oftheinstallationmustbeyourpriorities, an electrical enclosure installed outdoors does not necessarily require a maximum degree of IP.

Four essential parametersmustbeincluded inchoosingtheIPdegreeofprotection:

•Theriskofingressofliquids(e.g.whetherornottheareaisexposedtorainwater,groundwashing,etc.)

•Theriskofingressofsolidbodiese.g.whether ornottheatmosphereisdusty)

•Thelevelofprotectionofpeople (e.g.whetherornotpeoplepassthrough)

•Thefragilityofelectricalandelectronicdevices(internal)andtheirsensitivitytodust

AnelectricalenclosureconformingtoIEC62208 must indicate its degree of resistance to mechanicalimpacts(IKdegreedefinedbyIEC62262).

Example of IK10: theequipmentisprotectedagainstanimpactequivalenttoa5kgweightfalling from a height of 40 cm (impactenergy=20Joules)


"What IP degree of protection is required for an outdoor

installation?"

The IP must first and foremost be defined with respect to the characteristics of the environment and the devices installed within.

Remember

• The IP of the installation corresponds to the lowest IP of the accessories installed.

Expert advice

• Do not base everything on the IP. For example, most Schneider Electric fibreglass-reinforced polyester enclosures are only IP44 rated, whereas they are designed to withstand harsh outdoor environments.

Expert advice

• By default, the maximum IK degree of protection is IK 10. You can go as low as IK 08 if the installation is not exposed to the public or if you are using a transparent door.

40 cm

5 kg

Maximum degree of protection: IK 10.

"What IK degree of protection is required for an outdoor

installation?"

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By choosing the right material for the sealThepurposeofthesealistoensuretightnessbetweentheenclosureanditsdoors/accessoriesoveralongperiodoftime.Thatiswhyitisimportanttochoosethematerialcarefully.Itseffectivenessandservicelifedependuponit.

ComparedtomaterialssuchassiliconeorEPDM(Ethylene-Propylene-DieneMonomer),polyurethanesealsofferuniqueadvantages:

•Abrasionresistance

•Better tear resistance

•Weatherresistance

•Excellentnoisebarriermaterial

By fitting a protective canopyThecanopy,fittedatthetopoftheenclosure,willprotectthesealonalong-termbasis:nowaterinfiltration,lessiceformation,limitedingressofforeignbodies,lessexposuretosunlight(topoftheenclosure),etc.

"How can the IP degree of protection be maintained throughout the life cycle of the installation?"

With quality seals and opting for a protective canopy

Expert advice

• Regularly, and after exceptional climatic events, check the amount of wear on the O-ring. Do not wait for it to leak before replacing it.

• Do not forget to maintain the seal and canopy to ensure that their protective function is not impaired. Even temporarily. Never clean the seal with a detergent or aggressive substances.

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The protection of people is ensured:

•Bytheconstruction:insulatingenclosure

•Bytheinstallation:earthingandequipotentiality,circuitbreakerorRCDprotection.

The installation siteAvoid:

•Thoroughfares

•Areasthataretoovisibletothepublic

Insulating properties of the enclosure

Standard steel Stainless steelABS or Polycarbonate


Electrical insulation

Safety of the installation

•Door closing devices:forexamplea3-pointlock.

•Hinges: themoretheyareconcealed,themoreyouimprovethesecurityleveloftheinstallation.

Level of safety of people

"How can the safety of people (and that of the installa-tion) be maximised?"

• By preferring installation sites away from the public• By choosing a self-extinguishing, non-conductive material (electrical hazard) for the enclosure• By making access to the installation more secure• By fitting grounding straps to earth the metal enclosures

Expert advice

• As far as possible, avoid installing enclosures in areas frequented by a large number of passers-by (public site) or by employees (private site).

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Assoonasanelectricalenclosureistobeinstalledoutside a building, the installer has to come to terms with new thermal factors:exposuretosunlight,theambienttemperature,therisksofcondensation,temperaturevariations,etc.

Thethermalchallengeinvolvesrecreatinginsidetheenclosuretheoptimumconditionsinwhichtheequipmentwithincanoperate.

How can the "ideal" environment be recreated?

•BychoosingtherightIPdegreeofprotection(nottoohightoallownaturalventilation)

•Bychoosingtherightsizeofenclosure

•By choosing the right material for the enclosure

•Byoptingfortherightthermalmanagement

solution

Main causes of increases in the internal temperatures of outdoor enclosures:

•Heatemissionsfrominternaldevices

•Absorptionofcaloriesemittedbythesun

•Thelackofventilation

Thermal management of enclosures is essential to:

•Ensurecontinuityofservice:preventoutagesandmalfunctionscaused byoverheatingelectricalandelectronicdevices

•Reducecosts:relatedtoshuttingdownmanufacturingprocesses or to installation maintenance

•Increasethelifetimeofinternalcomponents

Before any type of solution can be envisaged, the thermal conditions inside and outside the enclosure should be measured and analysed: air temperature, moisture content, etc.

Overview of thermal management solutions

"Passive" management solutions Inexpensiveandnatural,defined

upstream

•Choiceofequipment

•Enclosuresize

•Enclosure location

•Wallinsulation

•Powerloadarrangement

•Relocationof"passive"electricalloads outside the enclosure

•Cablearrangement

•Airflowmanagement

•Ventilationornaturalconvection

•Naturaldissipationandairagitation

"Active" management solutions Correctivesolutions,requiringspecialdimensioning,canbeexpensive

•Heatcontrolequipment

•Forcedconvection

•Forcedventilation

•Airconditioners

•Air/waterexchangers

•Air/airexchangers

•Heatingresistors

Thermal management

"How does the thermal management of outdoor enclosures differ from

that of indoor enclosures?"

Because installing the electrical enclosure outdoors involves other thermal parameters

Two main solution categories:• "Passive" solutions • "Active" solutions

"What solutions can be used to reduce the temperature

inside the enclosure?"

Traps to be avoided

• Believing that an outdoor enclosure does not need thermal management solutions and that it is always ventilated naturally.

Expert advice• Maximise "Passive" solutions before envisaging an "Active" one.• Polyester is a better heat insulating material than metal

or stainless steel, which absorb and conduct heat.• It is very important to divide the power loads into different groups:

save energy, avoid unnecessary hot spots, lower the average temperature of the enclosure and be able to adapt the thermal management solution in the best possible way.

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"What is material "Tropicalisation"?"

A process by which the resistance of a device is adapted to its working environment.In the electrical field and with respect to enclosures, it means protecting the interior and exterior against oxidation.

"Is the protective canopy really necessary?"

YES. Depending on the environment, fitting a protective canopy can be very effective:• It covers the seal located between the door and the enclosure (no water infiltration, less ice formation, etc.)• It protects the top of the enclosure from the rays of the sun (reduces the T° inside the enclosure and the need for ventilation)• It prevents the stagnation of water on the top of the enclosure (and reduces corrosion)

What are the IEC 62208 compliance tests? (related to outdoor installation)

• Weather resistance: exposure of the enclosure for 500 h (rain + UV lamp)• Corrosion resistance (for outdoor installation): alternate cycles of humidity (95%) and salt mist during 24 cycles of 24 hours.

N.B.: the IEC 62208 standard requires the IP and IK to be declared and verified.

"What is the difference be-tween IEC 60529 and NEMA 250? "

IEC 60529:defines the IP degrees of protection relating to the levels of protection of people and to protection against the ingress of solid bodies and water. NEMA 250: defines a system for classifying enclosures for indoor or outdoor use, known as the "Type". NEMA 250 addresses: the protection of people, protection against the ingress of water and solid bodies, formation of ice, corrosion, seal strength, etc.


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"How can water be evacuated?"

By installing a water drain plug. You are reminded that Schneider Electric provides IP 55 rated drain plugs with its polyester enclosures.

"Is the colour of the enclosure important?"

YES. The percentage of radiation absorbed by the enclosure and emitted to surrounding objects is closely related to the finish and colour of the surface of the enclosure. The metal surface absorbs some of the heat dissipated by a source of temperature such as a heating resistor, which consequently increases the temperature inside the enclosure. The capacity of the enclosure to dissipate the internal heat (in W/°K) is generally less for bright smooth surfaces than for other types of surfaces.

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There are three classes of equipment, depending on their insulation level: Class 0 and the next two classes:

"In terms of exposure to sunlight, are UV rays the only factors to be considered?"

"What does “Class II equipment” mean?"

NO. UV rays are not the only limiting factors. There is even more radiation in the visible and infrared spectrum than in UV rays and this should also be taken into account.

See the solar radiation distribution table below (as per IEC 60068-2-5):

Spectral range

Ultraviolet B

Ultraviolet A

Visible Infrared

Irradiance 5W/m² 63W/m² 200W/m² 186W/m² 174W/m² 492W/m²

Remember

• Polyester enclosures, which are fully insulating by design, are used for Class II installations (full insulation corresponds to Class II - see IEC 61439)

• Class II equipment: equipment for which protection against indirect

contacts is provided by double-insulated or reinforced insulation components.

• Class I equipment: equipment with design regulations, allowing its

accessible metal parts to be earthed.

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Remember

• The degrees of protection provided by enclosures are defined by IEC 60529 (IP) and IEC 62262 (IK).

• The letters IP followed by 2 characteristic digits are used to represent the degrees of protection. The digits indicate the degree of protection provided by the enclosure against access to the dangerous parts and the ingress of solid bodies (1st digit) and against the ingress of liquids (2nd digit).

• The letters IK followed by 2 characteristic digits are used to represent the protection against external mechanical impacts.

N.B.: many European standards (EN) are harmonised with the IEC international standards.

That is the case with the enclosure protection standards:

– EN 60529 = IEC 60529.

– EN 62262 = IEC 62262.

0Noprotection

1

Protectionagainstsolidobjects larger than 50 mm (e.g. accidental hand contact)

2

Protectionagainstsolidobjects larger than 12 mm (e.g.fingers)

3

Protectionagainstsolidobjects larger than 2.5 mm (tools, wires)

4

Protectionagainstsolidobjects larger than 1 mm (thintools,finewires)

5

Protectionagainstdust(noharmfuldeposit)

6

Fullprotectionagainsttest dust

IP IKFirst digit

Protectionagainst solid objects

Second digitProtection

against liquids

Mechanical protection

0Noprotection

1

Protectionagainstverticallyfallingdropsofwater(condensation)

2

Protectionagainstfalling dropsofwaterupto15°fromthevertical

3

Protectionagainstrainwaterupto60°fromthevertical

4

Protectionagainstwatersprayfromalldirections

5

Protectionagainstjets ofwaterfromnozzlesfrom all directions

6

Protectionagainstpowerfuljetsofwaterfromnozzlesfromall directions

7Protectionagainst

the effects of immersion

8

Protectionagainst theprolongedeffects ofimmersionunderpressure

0Noprotection

01 Impactenergy:0.150Joule

02

Impactenergy:0.200Joule

03


04


05


06


07

Impactenergy:2.00Joules

08


09


10


"What are the different IP and IK degrees of protection?"

7.5 cm

10 cm

17.5 cm

25 cm

35cm

20 cm

40 cm

29.5 cm

20 cm

40 cm

200 g

200 g

200 g

200 g

200 g

500 g

500 g

1,7kg

5kg

5kg

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Collect as much data as possible about the environment

Start by making a detailed assessment of the environment (as accurately as possible). The data collected will allow you to assess the levels of protection required: against the ingress of solid bodies or liquids, impacts, sunlight and its UV rays, cold, heat, wind, etc. Protection against graffiti, noise pollution, access by people.

Rule no.1

Consider outdoor equipment requirements

• How will the enclosure be installed (on a wall, a base, etc.)?• How will it be protected against its environment (need for a canopy, a padlock, etc.)?• How will the cables enter the enclosure (preferably from below)?• How will it be taken to its location (e.g. lifting system)?• etc.

Rule no.3

Assess and integrate the particular requirements of the application

• Where will the enclosure be installed: in a refinery, a water treatment plant, etc., on a pavement, in a car park, on an off-shore platform?• Does the installation require mounting plates, a modular frame, a 19" rack?• Does the enclosure need to be raised and placed on a base (to reduce water spray, rising damp and damage in the event of a flood)?• …

Rule no.4

Make a detailed inventory of the devices inside the enclosure

What is happening inside the enclosure is as important as what is happening outside. The characteristics of the enclosure, and particularly its size, are also dictated by the type of devices it contains (this also applies when the enclosure is installed indoors): • Their dimensions• Their level of thermal dissipation• Their level of resistance (e.g. to cold, heat, water, dust, etc.) • Their thermal management requirements (e.g. heating, cooling, etc.)• The need for easy access (maintenance)

Rule no.2

Worksheet

H o w c a n a n e l e c t r i c a l e n c l o s u r e b e s u c c e s s f u l l y i n s t a l l e d o u t d o o r s ?

The enclosures you are going to install must be able to withstand any natural or human aggression. They will have to protect the devices they contain as effectively and as long as possible.

By observing a few basic rules (recommended below), you will be taking no chances and be sure to successfully install your electrical enclosure outdoors.

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Determine the correct size of the enclosure

• What devices will be installed inside?• Where will they be installed in the enclosure?• Are there any constraints in terms of size and weight (e.g. will it be installed on a ship, in town, on a platform, etc.)• etc.

Rule no.5

Get the "Thermal management" reflex

Whether the enclosure is installed indoors or outdoors, it is an accepted fact that efficient thermal management maximises the performance and service life of the electrical and electronic components. Whereas it is vital to manage and dissipate the heat accumulated, in some cases the inside of the enclosure has to be heated.

Ask yourself a few essential questions:• What is the temperature of the outdoor environment? • What can the temperature inside the enclosure be (heat emissions from installed loads)? • What is the heat resistance level of the enclosure (material)?• What is the size of the enclosure?• What surfaces encourage heat transfer?• What are the thermal dissipation requirements?• What type of system do I need (prioritise passive solutions)?

Rule no.7

Pay attention to the weight

Where the weight of the enclosure is concerned, you must consider the weight of the devices AND the weight of the enclosure, such as it will ultimately be configured. Most "non-metal" materials weigh less than metal ones. It is essential to know the weight before envisaging the handling and fixing solutions, particularly those involving wall-mounting (is the wall strong enough? will the fastening system withstand the weight? and so on).

Rule no.6

H o w c a n a n e l e c t r i c a l e n c l o s u r e b e s u c c e s s f u l l y i n s t a l l e d o u t d o o r s ?

FOCUS ON ... Spacial.pro software

Spacial.pro offers various solutions, based on the standard Spacial products. Within a few minutes, the software will tell you the cost of your project in the form of several sets of tables and generate an estimate as well as 2D diagrams (front and side views).

FOCUS ON... ProClima v5.0 software

ProClima v5.0 will allow you to estimate your thermal management needs. From the data you have collected and entered in the software, ProClima v5.0 will propose solutions to match the characteristics of the installation (environment, indoor electrical and electronic equipment, etc.). And only these!

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Choose the appropriate enclosure material

The material you choose for the enclosure should ideally have four intrinsic qualities:• Be able to protect the devices against the external aggressions you have identified• Have thermal properties (e.g. it must not absorb heat)• Protect people against electrical hazard and the risk of fire (non-conductive material, self-extinguishing)• Provide sufficient adaptability to allow the enclosure to be easily modified (e.g. by drilling holes, etc.), without damaging its level of protection.For example fibreglass-reinforced polyester is particularly valued for its capacity to be easily modified and repaired on site. Due to its hardness, stainless steel is very difficult to cut and consequently, it is not very flexible.

Rule no.8

Do not ignore the cable entries

The cable entries can be a considerable source of humidity... and corrosion.The range is wide: from basic cable entries to separate sealed cable entries.

Practical advice:To avoid corrosion on metal enclosures, do not machine them.

Rule no.9

Fiche pratique

25

Think about accessing the installation

• For current use: door contact, door stop, document pocket, etc.

• For maintenance: easy-to-remove doors to make it easier to access the filters, air outlets, etc.

Rule no.10

Above all, do not forget to make the installation access points secure

No unauthorised persons are allowed to access the devices. To ensure the maximum safety of people and of the electrical installation, all solutions must be considered: door lock, padlock, etc.

Rule no.11

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Overview of Schneider Electric universal enclosures

SDB Steel junction boxes IP 55S44 Steel industrial boxes IP 66S57 Steel screw-fixed cover boxes IP 66 S24 Steel safety boxes IP 55

Spacial Steel

CV-CA Ventilation and air-circulation systems

Mounting Power distribution

Cable management

CE Exchangers CU Cooling unit

Boxe

sFr

om 74

x 74

mm

to

720

x 54

0 m

m

Wal

l-m

ount

ing

encl

osur

esFr

om 3

00 x

200

mm

to

1200

x 10

00 m

m

Clim

aSys

Ther

mal

co

nditi

onin

g

Acce

ssor

ies

S3D Wall-mounting steel enclosures S3DB Terminal enclosures S3DBFL Terminal enclosures with FL21 cut-out S3DM Modular distribution enclosures VDM 19" enclosures S3DEX For potentially explosive atmospheres S3HF Electromagnetic protection

SM Floor-standing steel compact enclosurerSF Floor-standing steel suitable enclosure • Compartmentalised enclosure • Electronic application • Prisma Plus application • Automotive enclosure

S3CM Control enclosures with suspension system SD Compact control desksSDF Control desk with consoleSF application

Floo

r-st

andi

ng

encl

osur

esFr

om 5

00 x

500

mm

to

220

0 x 1

600

mm

Hum

an-m

achi

ne

inte

rfac

e en

clos

ures

27

S3X Wall-mounting stainless steel enclosure S3XEX For potentially explosive atmospheres

Spacial Stainless steel Thalassa insulating materials

PLS Modular insulating boxesTBP Polycarbonate industrial boxes TBS ABS industrial boxes

PLM Wall-mounting polyester cubicle PLMEX For potentially explosive atmospheres

PLA Floor-standing polyester enclosurePLD Floor-standing polyester DIN enclosure

CR Heating resistors CC Thermal control

Lighting and power outlet

Door accessories

Earthing accessories

ProClima 5.0 Thermal software

SMX Floor-standing stainless steel compact enclosureSFX Floor-standing stainless steel suitable enclosure

SDX Stainless steel control desk SMX PC Application

03-2012CPTG004_EN

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