Electrical Enclosure Buying Guide: Types & Comparison
The electrical enclosure (also known as a control cabinet or distribution board) is the heart of every professional electrical installation. Whether in industrial environments, outdoor applications, or private metering areas – a high-quality enclosure reliably protects electrical components from dust, moisture, mechanical impact, and unauthorized access. At ekabel24.de, you’ll find a comprehensive range of electrical enclosures specifically tailored to the needs of electricians, industry professionals, and building technology.
In this detailed pillar article, you’ll learn everything important about types, materials, protection ratings, sizes, and key buying criteria. We compare steel sheet and ABS plastic enclosures, introduce metering cabinets and meter panels, and provide practical purchasing advice. This will help you make the right decision for durable, standards-compliant solutions.
What is an Electrical Enclosure and What is it Used For?
An electrical enclosure (also called a distribution cabinet, empty enclosure, or industrial housing) is a robust housing that safely accommodates relays, fuses, terminals, controllers, and other electrical components. It ensures tidy wiring, prevents short circuits, and protects against external influences in accordance with standards such as EN 60529 (IP protection classes) and EN 62208.
Common applications include industrial automation, mechanical engineering, building technology, telecommunications, and the housing of electricity meters (metering cabinets and meter panels).
Overview of the Main Types of Electrical Enclosures
At ekabel24.de you will find four main categories that cover all common requirements:
- Steel Sheet Distribution Enclosures – robust and impact-resistant for demanding industrial environments
- ABS Plastic Empty Enclosures – lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for damp rooms or outdoor areas
- Metering Cabinets – specially designed for the installation of electronic household meters (eHZ) in TN-S networks
- Meter Panels / Metering Assemblies – modular distribution systems with APZ/RFZ sections for multi-family homes and commercial buildings
Comparison: Steel Sheet vs. ABS Plastic Electrical Enclosures
The choice of material significantly affects durability, weight, and suitable applications. Here’s a direct comparison:
| Criteria | Steel Sheet Enclosure | ABS Plastic Enclosure |
|---|---|---|
| Material & Thickness | 1.2 mm steel sheet (IK10 impact resistant) | Impact-resistant, UV-stabilized ABS plastic |
| Weight | Heavier, very high stability | Lightweight and easy to install |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good (galvanized or painted RAL 7035) | Excellent – completely rust-free |
| Protection Rating (typical) | IP65 (dust-tight & protected against water jets) | IP65 (ideal for damp and outdoor areas) |
| Mounting Plate | Removable, 2 mm galvanized steel | Integrated or with fastening accessories |
| Typical Applications | Industry, mechanical engineering, high mechanical stress | Damp rooms, outdoor installation, lighter applications |
| Door Type | Solid door with locking system | Solid door or transparent inspection door |
Buying Criteria: What to Consider When Choosing an Electrical Enclosure
When selecting an electrical enclosure, pay attention to the following key factors:
- Size & Dimensions: Common sizes range from compact 200x200x150 mm to medium 400x400x250 mm up to large industrial enclosures. Consider mounting plate size and installation depth.
- Protection Rating (IP): IP65 is the standard for industrial and outdoor use (dust-tight + protection against water jets). For metering cabinets, IP31 or IP44 is often sufficient.
- IK Impact Resistance: IK10 for steel enclosures under high mechanical stress.
- Mounting Type: Surface mounting (wall-mounted), freestanding, or flush-mounted installation.
- Additional Features: Removable mounting plate, cable entries, locking systems, and ventilation options.
- Standards & Certifications: EN 60529, EN 62208, VDE, CE.
Special Solutions: Metering Cabinets and Meter Panels
Metering cabinets are specifically designed for installing electronic meters (eHZ) and comply with VDE-AR-N 4100 guidelines. Meter panels go even further: they offer modular distribution fields (up to 540 PLE), APZ and RFZ sections, and easy expandability for multi-family houses and commercial properties.
Electrical Enclosures for Industrial and Outdoor Use
Industrial enclosures must be particularly robust. Steel sheet models with IP65 and IK10 rating dominate here. For outdoor applications, ABS plastic enclosures are an excellent choice because they are corrosion-free and weather-resistant.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electrical Enclosures (FAQ)
What does IP65 mean for an electrical enclosure?
IP65 means complete protection against dust and protection against water jets from all directions. It is ideal for industrial environments, damp rooms, and outdoor installations.
What sizes are available for electrical enclosures?
Sizes range from small models (200x200x150 mm) to large industrial enclosures (800x600x300 mm and bigger). The most common dimensions can be found in our steel sheet and ABS plastic categories.
Steel sheet or ABS plastic – which electrical enclosure is better?
Steel sheet is better for high mechanical stress and long-term durability in industrial settings. ABS plastic is preferable when low weight, corrosion resistance, and easy installation in outdoor or damp areas are required.
Are electrical enclosures suitable for outdoor use?
Yes – models with IP65 rating and appropriate material choice (ABS or corrosion-protected steel) are designed for outdoor installation. Make sure to check UV resistance and cable entry quality.
What is the difference between a metering cabinet and a meter panel?
Metering cabinets are primarily for housing electricity meters. Meter panels are extended distribution systems with multiple fields, busbars, and preparation for modern metering systems (APZ/RFZ).
Do I need a mounting plate inside the enclosure?
Yes, a removable mounting plate greatly simplifies the installation of components. In steel enclosures, it is usually 2 mm thick and galvanized.
What types of locking systems are available?
From simple rotary latches to three-point locking systems with profile cylinders for enhanced security.
Can I install an electrical enclosure myself?
Basic wall mounting can be done by yourself, but the electrical wiring and fitting of components should always be carried out by a qualified electrician.
Which standards must electrical enclosures meet?
Important standards include EN 60529 (IP rating), EN 62208 (empty enclosures), and for metering assemblies DIN VDE 0603-1 and VDE-AR-N 4100.
Are enclosures with transparent doors available?
Yes – especially in ABS plastic models, transparent inspection doors are available so you can monitor the contents without opening the door.
Conclusion: The Right Electrical Enclosure for Your Project
Whether you need a robust steel sheet distribution enclosure for industry, a lightweight ABS empty enclosure for outdoor use, or standards-compliant metering cabinets – at ekabel24.de you will find high-quality solutions that meet the highest demands.
Browse our shop now and order the right electrical enclosure online: View the complete range of electrical enclosures.