NEMA defines standards that are used in North America for the various grades of electrical enclosures.  Typically used in industrial applications, NEMA also applies their standards to self service kiosks.  Each is rated to protect against personal access to hazardous parts, and environmental conditions depending on the machine location whether it be indoors or out.  There are 13 NEMA types of enclosures with sub-categories that are built in for specific machine purposes.  Some of which include weather resistance, water tight fittings, dust tight, submersible, indoor, outdoor, or specific for hazardous conditions.

What to consider in choosing electrical enclosures:

1. Location and environment – You must determine where the enclosure will be installed. Is it indoor or outdoor? Will it face a hose down, rain, excessive dust or corrosive elements? It is important to know that if you stick an enclosure under the sun, the internal temperature vs external temperature can create issues with the machine.  Determining these factors will guide you toward suitable rating and material.
2. Contents – Determine if the set environment around the enclosure will damage the equipment within unless the equipment is pressurized.  A factor to also to be considered if the overall equipment is sturdy or delicate in any respect in accordance to its location.
3. Size – Determine if you can find a size and shape that meets your needs or if a custom fabricated enclosure is necessary.
   Compustation Kiosks and computer enclosures specialize in NEMA 12 enclosures which is designed for general purpose protection and intended for indoor use to provide protection against dust, dirt, and dripping of non-corrosive liquids.  It should meet drip, dust, and rust resistance tests.

Here are some of the characteristics of a NEMA 12 enclosure:

• Doors with oil resistant gaskets
• Resistant to damage from external condensation of non-corrosive liquids
• Primarily for industrial indoor use
• Available with pre punched holes, cut outs, lift off hinges, insulation, latches or locks.

There are common misconceptions on the use of NEMA enclosures especially on NEMA 4 and NEMA 12.  Being a water tight grade enclosure, NEMA 4 is commonly chosen by consumers as few people know that they are different.  The NEMA 4 and 4X are for indoor-outdoor and the NEMA 12 is for indoor use only.  They also have specific material design for a made for wet or dry purposes so it is better to be aware of your business needs before purchasing one.
Having the right enclosure will maximize the lifespan of your equipment as this holds the electrical connections between the main power supply to the apparatus and protects it from any damage, water spills, dusts and other particles that might contribute to its workability and productivity over time.  Regular maintenance will also prolong use of both the equipment and enclosure as if these are neglected, extensive run down will be expected and financial loss can occur.
Choosing the right manufacturer of the kiosk enclosure should be taken seriously.  Compustation kiosks and computer enclosures have fourteen years of experience in producing enclosures that will surely give you peace of mind.  Serving large and small companies and manufacturing NEMA grade equipment.  You can be assured all their products are the best quality, with high standards, are long-lasting and priced accordingly.

The right type of equipment used is one key factor for success in any company and industry from computers to machinery, etc.  The use of the wrong type of equipment can be a challenge for businesses especially with high-volume production demands as it can cause damage in the workplace or an accident.  The same goes for selecting the right electrical enclosures for your self service kiosk.

Electrical power failure is one of the main causes of of equipment and machinery problems due to the inability of the electrical enclosure to protect the electrical wires, fuse boxes and other electrical connections inside. Often, the electrical enclosures get damaged because they are not covered by the right equipment for the job. This article will try to describe the importance of choosing the right electrical enclosure and why it matters to know the difference between NEMA 12 enclosures and other types of enclosures.
Why should you choose the right enclosure?
Before we try to enumerate the difference between NEMA 12 enclosures and other electrical enclosures available in the market, it is important to know why it is important to choose the right enclosure.  As previously mentioned, using the wrong enclosure may have some consequences for the business and the people in the work area. Certain types of enclosures are more suitable for indoor use while other electrical enclosures are built for the outdoors.

Selecting the right enclosure allows for an uninterrupted electrical supply which is good for productivity and avoiding accidents.  That productivity in return will lead to increased revenue and increased savings that would have been spent on costly repairs.  When you use the right electrical enclosure for the job, you are extending its serviceable life and this saves you money since you do not have to replace it for a long time.  Such savings can then be funneled towards other business purposes.
What are the different types of enclosures?
There are several types of electrical enclosures available in the market and each type is made specifically for a certain work environment. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association provides a grading system for this enclosures depending on their purpose and application. The NEMA 12 enclosures are made for indoor use.  These enclosures are very common and are for general purpose applications. It can provide a certain degree of protection against dust, water, as well as light corrosive liquid.
Another type of enclosure is the NEMA 4 enclosure.  This type of enclosure is waterproof and is more tightly sealed.  The NEMA 4 is a less common enclosure but are often seen in more demanding work environments.  This type of electrical enclosure can be found outdoors and can withstand high pressure.  There are other types of electrical enclosures but the NEMA 12 enclosures and NEMA 4 are the most commonly used.
To sum it up, the next time you need an electrical enclosure, speak to a professional in the business to choose the right type for your company workplace or trade show to get the best value for your investment.