How to choose a cabinet enclosure for its installation location

8 września, 2026

An enclosure should suit the conditions in which the equipment will operate. A technical room presents different considerations from an outdoor installation, where rain, sunlight, temperature changes or contaminants may affect the cabinet.

Conditions to describe

• whether the cabinet will be installed indoors or outdoors;
• exposure to moisture, dust, chemicals, corrosion or mechanical impact;
• available space, mounting method and cable entry direction;
• heat generated by the equipment and available ventilation;
• the required protection level and service access.

Material, construction, accessories and protection rating should be selected for the actual application. “Outdoor use” alone does not define the right enclosure; the location and environmental exposure also matter. Confirm the finished product parameters in the project and product documentation.

Plan the enclosure and assembly together

Equipment layout, cable entries and wiring space should be considered alongside enclosure selection. Allow space for installation, operation and future maintenance. This lets construction and equipment requirements be reviewed before assembly starts.

HOKE manufactures metal enclosures and assembles electrical cabinets. Describe the installation conditions and discuss a suitable solution.

Editorial content by HOKE. Further reading: Rittal — enclosure and cabinet ranges.