FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General FAQs

Q: What is included with a standard Integra enclosure?
A:
Each enclosure is shipped with the base and cover assembled and cover gasket installed along with chosen latch and hinge options. Premium enclosures come with a set of cover screws and hole plugs as well as mounting feet and screws. Most Genesis enclosures come with MultiMax Rail System and mounting flanges. Standard stainless steel enclosures come with bolt-on mounting tabs.

Q: Are the enclosures watertight (NEMA 4X)?
A:
Yes, all Integra enclosures have a minimum NEMA 4X rating with a dust-tight, water-tight seal.  NEMA 6P rated enclosures are also available, allowing for temporary submersion up to 6 feet for up to 24 hours. To learn more about NEMA protection ratings, view our knowledge base article here.

Q: Are the enclosures UL-listed? How about Canada?
A:
Premium, Impact®, and Genesis Series enclosures are listed as UL-50E, Cabinet and Cutout Boxes (File # E207562). Stainless Steel enclosures are listed as UL-508A Industrial Control Panels (file # E229365) and CSA 22.2 Industrial Control Equipment. Integra is also C-UL Listed for use in Canada and we are Marine Listed for coastal or marine applications.

Q: Are modifications available?
A:
Yes, modifications such as machined holes or slots are available on all enclosures. Integra can also provide silk-screening, component installation and special packaging requirements. Register for drawing access on our website to view CAD drawings of our enclosures and plan your exact modifications. Contact [email protected] for more information and a quote.

Q: Are back panels available from Integra?
A:
Yes, we offer back panels in bare aluminum, PVC, powder coated steel and galvannealed steel.

Q: What is the best way to send you a drawing of my enclosure design?
A: We accept drawings in the format of a PDF, DWG, STP, or AutoCAD drawing. If these options aren’t available, email [email protected] a photo or copy of your hand drawn drawing and we will configure it. Our engineering team will work with you on the drawing until it is approved.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the amount or size of my custom hole pattern?
A:
There are no restrictions to the amount or size of the machined hole patterns, as long as the cutouts remain within the hole-to-edge limitations. Below is a table of the minimum hole-to-edge distance for custom machined cutouts. This prevents deformation of the cutout during forming.

Material Thickness Min. Hole-To-Edge Distance
0.060 in. 0.180 in.
0.075 in. 0.225 in.
0.090 in. 0.270 in.
0.105 in. 0.315 in.

 

Q: What is your lead time for a custom enclosure?
A: All lead times start from when our customer service team receives the purchase order. Please contact factory for current lead times.

Polycarbonate Enclosure FAQs

Q: What colors are available?
A:
Standard color for polycarbonate enclosures is gloss gray but we do stock select sizes in white or black as well. For custom molded color, please contact [email protected] for a quote.

Q: I notice that the covers and sidewalls are not flat. Why is that, and does the shape preclude the installation of hubs and components?
A:
The covers and sidewalls of all Integra Premium line enclosures are slightly convex. This design creates a much stronger box that is better suited to protect in all environments. “Flat” non-metallic boxes can become warped over time which will cause the box to not seal properly. Integra’s innovative design resists warping, creating a water-tight seal that lasts! Most hubs and components can easily be installed on Integra enclosures using a standard gasket.

Q: If I use DIN-rail mounted components, will I need a back panel?
A:
Integra polycarbonate enclosures feature molded-in mounting bosses at intervals of approximately 1 inch, located around the entire perimeter of the enclosure base. This allows you to install DIN rails at virtually any location, avoiding the need and expense of a back panel.

Q: How does the Integra Back Panel Adjustment System work?
A
: The Integra Back Panel Adjustment System consists of four mounting pads that slide on T-shaped rails molded into the four corners of the enclosure base. The mounting pads, which are provided with brass threaded inserts for panel attachment, are held in place by inserting a set screw. The set screw, which can be adjusted with the back panel in place, is inserted into a channel in the mounting pad, which causes the set screw to engage with the T-ail, providing a positive attachment. The kit includes four mounting pads, eight set screws, an Allen wrench, four back panel attachment screws, and an instruction sheet (PN’s BPAKG and BPAKB).

Q: What if I buy an opaque cover enclosure and decide later that I really want a clear cover?
A: You can order clear covers, with gaskets installed, and easily replace it in the field.

Q: What are the advantages of the Integra product over the fiberglass product I am buying now?
A
: There are several important advantages:

  • The engineered polycarbonate enclosure has dramatically better impact resistance. For example, Integra polycarbonate enclosures have an impact resistance of over 900 in-lbs, while fiberglass typically has an impact resistance of less than 220 in-lbs.
  • Polycarbonate enclosures are available with a clear cover. For a fiberglass product, an expensive and potentially leaky window installation is required.
  • Polycarbonate enclosures feature a 100% non-metallic hinge design. Fiberglass products normally feature a steel hinge pin that will eventually corrode.
  • Polycarbonate enclosures tend to offer more features inside the enclosure to support component installation. For example, fiberglass products tend to have only four mounting bosses on the base of the box. Integra products feature those same four mounting bosses, plus molded-in mounting bosses surrounding the perimeter of the
    enclosure. Integra also offers the patented Back Panel Adjustment System, which eliminates the need for expensive stand-offs and allows for the installation of multiple panels.
  • Polycarbonate enclosures are much easier and safer to machine, with none of the dust and splintering associated with fiberglass.
  • Fiberglass enclosures will “bloom” when exposed to sunlight. In fact, manufacturers of FRP enclosures
    recommend painting their products. This is not necessary with Integra polycarbonate enclosures.

Q: Can Integra enclosure products be mounted underwater?
A: Integra offers multiple styles of NEMA 6P enclosures that are suitable for temporary submersion. Integra’s 6P rating ensures a water-tight seal in up to 6 feet of water for up to 24 hours.

Q: What kind of thread locker can be used on Integra enclosures?
A:
A mechanical thread locking device is acceptable, such as a lock washer, provided a flat washer is used between the locking element and polycarbonate. Chemical thread locking compounds and anti-seize thread release agents are not recommended.

Q: What are the torque specifications for Integra enclosures?
A: Mounting Feet/Flange –
25-30 in-lbs.

Back Panel – 10-15 in-lbs.

Enclosure Cover – 8-10 in-lbs.

Q: How do I clean an Integra enclosure?
A:
Only light soapy water is recommended to clean your polycarbonate enclosure.

Metal Enclosure FAQs

Q: What type of materials are available to manufacture my enclosure?
A:
Integra offers multiple material options for metal enclosures, including 304 stainless steel, 316 stainless steel, and 5052-H32 aluminum. Please contact factory if you have other requirements.

Q: What does it mean if my enclosure is made with 14 gauge or 16 gauge material?
A:
Gauge refers to the thickness of the stainless steel material being used. Depending on the size of your enclosure, the required gauge varies. 14 Gauge = 0.7812 inches (1.984 mm) and 16 Guage = 0.625 inches (1.587 mm).

Q: What is the largest enclosure you can manufacture?
A: Integra manufactures custom enclosures up to 90″ wide. However, we have the capabilities to manufacture a wide variety of sizes. Please contact the factory directly for size inquiries.

Q: Why does my enclosure have rust spots on it?
A:
Discoloration on outdoor enclosures is typically caused by environmental exposure factors such as soil, saltwater, and fertilizer that contain iron particles that can collect on the enclosure surfaces and cause discoloration. This is not the stainless steel rusting; these compounds can collect along welded seams because the welding/polishing process and can create a slight magnetic pull. We recommend a thorough cleaning immediately after installation to ensure the stainless steel is clean and free of oils and other contaminants. Chemical exposure is a different category and should be evaluated on a case to case basis.

Q: Are PEMs NEMA 4X rated?
A:
PEMs, or self-cinching fasteners, by themselves are not 4X rated. However, a 4X rating can be achieved using powder coated PEMs. Other 4X rated options include CD studs and rivet nuts. Please contact the factory directly with any additional questions or requirements.

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