Enclosures: Protection for General and Mechanical Applications
Engineered to Shield. Designed to Last.
At BARE STEEL, our custom-fabricated enclosures are built to provide superior protection, organization, and durability in demanding environments. Whether used in electrical, mechanical, or industrial applications, enclosures play a critical role in safeguarding sensitive equipment, enhancing operational safety, and ensuring compliance with national and international standards.
General Applications
Enclosures serve as vital barriers that shield components from environmental hazards and ensure the safe, secure operation of equipment in both indoor and outdoor settings.
✅ Protection for Electrical & Electronic Equipment
Enclosures safeguard critical electrical components like circuit breakers, control panels, transformers, and distribution boards from dust, moisture, corrosion, and mechanical impact.
🔐 Safety & Security
They prevent accidental contact with energized or hazardous components, reduce fire risks, and deter tampering, vandalism, or theft.
🌧️ Environmental Resistance
Our enclosures are designed to withstand elements such as:
- Windblown dust
- Rain and hose-directed water
- Ice formation
- Corrosive chemicals
- UV exposure (for plastic models)
⚠️ Hazard Mitigation & Access Control
For outdoor and high-voltage installations, enclosures may be built at least 8 feet (2.44m) high or include equivalent protective features to restrict unauthorized access and ensure public safety.
📋 Code Compliance
All enclosures can be fabricated to meet strict standards such as:
- NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association)
- IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)
Ensuring regulatory compliance and operational reliability.
Mechanical Applications
In industrial and mechanical settings, enclosures are used to protect moving parts, reduce noise, and contain hazardous materials for a safer, more efficient operation.
⚙️ Mechanical System Protection
Motors, pumps, actuators, compressors, and instrumentation are shielded from dust, moisture, debris, and accidental impact—extending service life and minimizing downtime.
🔇 Acoustic Insulation
Specialized soundproof enclosures can reduce noise output by up to 41 dB, creating safer and more comfortable work environments, especially around loud machinery.
🧪 Hazardous Material Containment
For systems involving toxic chemicals or sensitive processes, sealed enclosures provide a controlled barrier—preventing leaks, exposure, or contamination.
Material Options for Enclosures
The right enclosure material is determined by environmental exposure, mechanical demands, thermal performance, and budget. We offer expert recommendations and fabrication across a full range of material types:
Metal Enclosures:
- Painted Carbon Steel – Cost-effective for indoor use; moderate corrosion resistance.
- Stainless Steel (304 & 316) – Highly corrosion-resistant, suitable for wash-down or marine environments. Type 316 excels in salty or high-temperature conditions.
- Aluminum – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for mobile, weight-sensitive, or exterior applications.
Plastic Enclosures:
- Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester (FRP) – Strong, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight; performs well in harsh, high-temperature environments, though UV protection is recommended.
- Polycarbonate – Durable, UV-resistant, impact-proof, and easy to modify; great for electronic enclosures and junction boxes.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) – Non-conductive, cost-effective, and chemically resistant; ideal for indoor applications.
Choosing the Right Enclosure
When selecting or customizing an enclosure, consider:
- Required protection level (IP/NEMA ratings)
- Exposure to environmental conditions (humidity, dust, chemicals, UV)
- Impact resistance and load-bearing needs
- Space constraints and weight limits
- Thermal regulation and ventilation
- Modification or access requirements
- Cost vs. longevity trade-offs
Why Choose BARE STEEL for Enclosures?
Our enclosures are fabricated to perform in the toughest industrial environments, with tailored options for custom cutouts, finishes, locks, cooling solutions, and mounting systems. Whether you’re protecting electronics in a control room or enclosing a high-speed motor in the field—we build it strong, smart, and to spec.
From factory floors to outdoor power systems—BARE STEEL enclosures offer strength, reliability, and peace of mind.
Contact us today to start your custom enclosure project.
