Enclosures

An electrical enclosure is a cabinet for electrical or electronic equipment to mount metering equipment, power supplies, GSM/GPRS/Ethernet Gateways, switches, knobs etc. preventing electrical shock to equipment users and protecting the contents from the environment. Enclosures are usually the only part of equipment which is seen by users; in many cases it is designed not only for its utilitarian requirements, but also to be pleasing to the eye. Regulations may dictate the IP protection features and performance of enclosures for electrical equipment in hazardous areas, such as petrochemical plants or coal mines.

IP Codes, International Protection Marking, sometimes interpreted as Ingress Protection Marking, classifies and rates the degree of protection provided against the intrusion (including body parts such as hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water by mechanical casings and electrical enclosures. It is published by the International Electro technical Commission (IEC).