Steel vs Metal Material What Is the Difference for Enclosures ?
The general public often uses certain terms interchangeably, even though they have distinct meanings.
A prime example is the pair “steel” and “metal.” While many people think these words are synonymous, some key differences merit consideration.
One major distinction is that steel is an alloy, not a naturally occurring element. According to the World Steel Association, steel is “an alloy of iron and carbon containing less than 2% carbon and 1% manganese, along with small amounts of silicon, phosphorus, sulfur, and oxygen.”
Even in professional industrial settings, there can still be significant confusion about this topic.
This confusion can be dangerous, as specific electrical enclosure units must be appropriate for their contents and environment.
Professionals who select steel or metal enclosures must understand the potential safety implications of their choices. This requires fundamental knowledge of how metal and steel differ. This guide will elucidate the differences between the two materials and explain how to apply this information when installing electrical enclosures.
Is It Important To Know the Difference ?
Not all electrical enclosures are created equal. The materials used to create a unit, as well as the many aspects of its production, determine its efficacy. You can generally get a good sense of how suitable an enclosure is for any given job based on the material it is made of. Among the numerous types of materials used in the industrial enclosure process, steel and metal are by far the most popular.
Knowing the difference between these two materials will make choosing and maintaining your enclosure much easier. Understanding how well metal and steel hold up in different weather conditions and react to other environmental factors is key to installing the correct units for the task in question.
” Understanding Metal “
Metals are materials that conduct electricity and heat with ease. They often have a shiny appearance when polished or fractured. If you recall learning about the periodic table of the elements in science class, you may remember some common metals such as copper, magnesium, and zinc. Note how there are numerous types of metal, each with its own properties and signatures. This is a significant difference between metal and steel. Metal is a catch-all term.
” Understanding Steel “
Steel is an alloy of iron. Since alloys are modified variants of elements, their properties can change in drastic ways. Steel is iron with added carbon content as the modifier
Why Is Carbon Added To Create Steel ?
The primary reason carbon is added to iron is to significantly increase the strength of the final substance. Steel has quickly become a favorite among architects and construction crews who design and build bridges, buildings, and other structures. Its enhanced strength also makes it an ideal choice for electrical enclosure units.
The Key Factors That Determine the Choice of Enclosure Material
To select the appropriate enclosure, it is important to consider a few key factors. Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each material in relation to these factors.
Environmental Conditions
Take into account whether the enclosure will be exposed to dust, vapor, liquids, gases, or any other foreign substances that may regularly come into contact with its surface. This is crucial because certain metals are more prone to corrosion or react differently to these substances. It is essential to cover all bases when determining the conditions the enclosure will have to withstand. If the enclosure will be situated in an outdoor area where exposure to moisture is unavoidable, consider using one of our waterproof boxes to protect against rain and other fluids.
Strength and Durability of the Enclosure
The enclosure must remain securely in place to safeguard the contents inside. The first step is to determine the weight of everything that will be placed inside the enclosure. If raw strength is the primary requirement, steel is almost always the winner due to its superior weight capacity. An excellent example of a durable unit is the ZH-060604 Hinged Junction Box, which features a stainless-steel design with polycarbonate that resists impacts.
The Opportunity for EMI and Other Signals
Electromagnetic interference has a peculiar effect on many types of equipment typically housed inside an enclosure. Metal enclosures provide some resistance to radio waves and other electromagnetic signals that come too close to the delicate items inside. The right enclosure will prevent sensitive equipment from malfunctioning or being fried by overwhelming levels of electrical output.
Climate and Temperature
Will the contents of the enclosure require consistent heat transfer between multiple components? Some metals conduct heat easily and draw it away from components housed inside the box. Aluminum and copper are renowned for their ability to conduct heat. If you’re enclosing something that generates heat, this can lower the temperature as the heat dissipates through the metal.
If you want the contents to maintain a more stable temperature, especially in extremely hot or cold environments, then you might need an enclosure made from a material that doesn’t conduct heat well, such as steel. If you require a material that doesn’t oxidize or rust, consider a stainless steel enclosure.
Future Modification Plans
Sometimes, modifications must be made to an existing junction box or enclosure. Whether it requires routine maintenance or you want to relocate the unit entirely, planning ahead will save you a headache down the line. Steel is heavier and more difficult to move around. However, drilling precise holes and adding cutouts in steel is much easier than with other types of metal. Consider the modifications you’ll need to make over the next 10 years before selecting your material.
How Well Does Metal or Steel Conduct Electricity ?
Some metals, like silver, copper, and aluminum, are highly conductive to electricity. While excellent for wiring, metals may not be the optimal choice for housing electrical components. Some types of steel offer high resistance to electricity. Regardless of the metal used, if the junction box or enclosure contains electrical components, be sure to ground the unit to prevent injuries.
Some Common Materials Used for Enclosures
When it comes to enclosures in the industrial world, there are several types of materials that are commonly used. At Polycase, we offer enclosures made from various metals and alloys, including diecast aluminum, extruded aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel. Here’s a closer look at these materials:
Type 304 Stainless Steel
Type 304 stainless steel is highly resistant to all kinds of acids. With 18% chromium content, it can withstand corrosion even when exposed to consistent water pressure. This makes it ideal for commercial kitchens and other food storage locations that require thorough cleaning with harsh chemical sprays.
Polycarbonate
While not a metal, polycarbonate is an incredibly durable material used in many of our enclosures. It can withstand powerful impacts and is easy to modify with holes and cutouts. These enclosures can withstand long periods of sun exposure without succumbing to ultraviolet damage. Polycarbonate plastics are also highly resistant to inclement weather. Additionally, polycarbonate is a non-conductive material, giving these enclosures a long lifespan even when used outdoors in harsh environments.
Aluminum
We offer both diecast and extruded aluminum enclosures, both of which are excellent for housing electrical equipment. Some of our diecast enclosures are waterproof, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Extruded aluminum enclosures are lightweight and feature internal slots, making it easy to slide equipment in and out.
Always Verify the Safety Standards
It’s crucial to verify the safety standards set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) before finalizing your enclosure selection. By adhering to the guidelines precisely as stated, you can ensure the use of appropriate materials every time. Prioritize safety by double-checking the established standard.
Make the Right Decision Every Time
As the person responsible for overseeing the installation of electrical enclosures, it’s essential to make informed decisions. Begin by evaluating the environment where the enclosure will be situated. By considering the factors mentioned above and following NEMA’s official standards, you can determine whether steel or another type of metal or nonmetal is the ideal choice for enclosures in your specific environment.
