Electrical Enclosures

Thinking Outside the Box: Why Energy-Efficient Enclosure Climate Control Units Are Important For Food and Beverage Manufacturers

Industry spotlight

Poultry has been one of the food and beverage industry’s biggest growth areas in recent years, and projections indicate this growth shows no signs of slowing down — in fact, a recent report estimates the poultry market will grow by more than 6% annually through 2028.

This is just one example — pet food and plant-based foods being a couple others — of why food and beverage producers need to unlock new levels of productivity and efficiency to meet customer demand and seize opportunities in new or emerging markets.

While much of the discussion around optimized efficiency in the food and beverage automation space revolves around specifying industrial enclosures specifically designed to support high hygienic standards, energy-efficient climate control units play an important role in helping manufacturers create more precise, targeted cooling while reducing their energy usage and costs.

With this in mind, let’s look at a couple of reasons why design engineers should consider energy-efficient enclosure climate control units when designing an automation infrastructure for food and beverage manufacturing sites.

Energy-efficient enclosure climate control units help manufacturers facilitate more diverse production lines

The food and beverage industry is an increasingly diverse playing field with the continued growth of plant-based meat alternatives, dairy-free milk, gluten-free snacks, and a variety of other product categories. The rise in popularity of these kinds of products is pushing more traditional food and beverage producers to launch their own plant-based or dairy-free options while still maintaining production volumes of their existing products.

What complicates the matter even more is that much of this production happens concurrently in the same facility, and because these products require their own distinct production lines, manufacturers are tasked with designing cooling systems that can adequately cool several production lines while also offering configuration flexibility and reducing a producer’s automation footprint.

Rittal’s new Blue e+ S smart enclosure cooling unit provides superior deployment flexibility with precise, highly targeted cooling outputs to keep enclosures operating at optimal temperature levels. Lower output categories of .3 kW, .5 kW, and 1 kW help manufacturers reduce their energy consumption and costs, and the use of innovative heat pipe and inverter technology eliminates the need for a compressor or expansion valve, which significantly cuts the amount of energy necessary to operate the unit — in fact, the Blue e+ S can reduce overall energy consumption by 75%.

The first step in better understanding the kind of cooling unit infrastructure necessary to facilitate multiple production lines is evaluating your current climate systems in order to identify potential deficiencies or liabilities. With a Rittal climate control efficiency analysis, manufacturers can increase the efficiency of their cooling systems by consolidating the number of cooling units — all without sacrificing performance or cooling output.

Energy-efficient climate control units help food and beverage manufacturers better align with sustainability initiatives

A survey conducted last year by the International Data Corporation found that 40% of food and beverage manufacturers said sustainable manufacturing was a top priority. The rise of sustainability as a top-level concern among manufacturers mirrors the importance and value consumers put in more eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and the dovetailing of these two creates some game-changing opportunities for manufacturers to use natural resources like energy in a more efficient, strategic way.

One way food and beverage manufacturers can reduce their impact on the environment is eliminating the use of harmful components or chemicals commonly used in industrial cooling units — in fact, the elimination of environmentally damaging chemicals as a means of reducing your overall carbon footprint is a large component of the new UL/CSA 60335-2-40 Standard, which is currently active and will be mandated for products certified to UL 1995 after January 1, 2024.

The engineering innovations that make up the Blue e+ S significantly reduce carbon emissions in part by using a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) that is 56% lower than those used in comparable cooling units to minimize carbon dioxide emissions.

Rittal’s Blue e+ S line of enclosure cooling units are also built upon a fully-integrated IIoT interface that allows for digital monitoring and condition reporting to help manufacturers better understand the state of their cooling units on a 24/7 basis.

Remote monitoring, cooling unit alerts and notifications, and user-friendly LED displays make it easier than ever before to adjust the temperature of your cooling unit based solely on the amount of cooling required, and this real-time flexibility helps you eliminate energy waste and align with consumer expectations and compliance on sustainability.

Bonus: Our energy-efficient enclosure cooling units can help enhance and support the sanitation of your production facility

Who says you can’t specify energy-efficient enclosure cooling units that also support increased sanitation and hygiene in your food and beverage production facility? With Rittal enclosure cooling units, industry-leading cooling efficiency and elevated sanitation are at your fingertips. 

Our Blue e+ cooling unit can not only help you reduce your energy costs by up to 75%, but hose-proof hoods also provide increased protection from the ingress of water or chemicals used during intense, regular washdowns. The hood design of the Blue e+ also helps reduce the likelihood of liquid pooling, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria and contamination.  

What’s more, our air-to-water heat exchangers come standard with a 30° angled roof design, water-resistant and joint-free seals, water connection flexibility, and smooth external surfaces to reduce dust buildup, which is a common challenge in food and beverage facilities that process nuts that are used in dairy and meat-free products.

Not only can Rittal help food and beverage manufacturers think outside the box when it comes to designing automation systems for food and beverage facilities, but our enclosure cooling units are designed to help food and beverages companies adopt a more energy-conscious approach to manufacturing while also optimizing their processes.

CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

What Design Features to Look for in a Standard Modular Enclosure

May 8 2023 by Rittal North America LLC

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) identified the need to create growth and expand facilities as one of the top trends for manufacturers in 2023. However, the ability to create long-term, sustainable growth hinges on the efficiency and adaptability of your automation infrastructure.

When it comes to large enclosures, the choice usually comes down to unibody construction versus a more modular approach. Designing around standard modular enclosures has a much higher ceiling in terms of unlocking new growth opportunities, in part because a more modular approach to enclosure design can help manufacturers maximize production floor space while still maintaining high levels of strength and security — particularly in the automotive or material handling space. 

The challenge with spec’ing modular enclosures? Understanding which design and engineering components can help manufacturers build an automation system that is more versatile and agile. Here, let’s examine which design features to look for in choosing standard modular enclosures for your manufacturing facility. 

Flexible — and simple — enclosure configurations

One of the hallmark design features of standard modular enclosures is configuration flexibility to help manufacturers reduce their automation footprint or adapt to space constraints on the factory floor. Design elements such as interchangeable panels, removable and reversible doors, variable mounting plate positions, and compatibility with wall partitions inside the enclosure make it easy to customize or tailor individual enclosures based on any number of application needs. 

What’s more, innovative modular frame structures create both inner and outer mounting levels inside the cabinet, which allows for more electronics within the enclosure. Plus, modular enclosures also create increased opportunities for baying on all sides in just minutes using a simple parts list of brackets, clamps, and other standardized tools. This allows for integration into spaces with size limitations, and it also provides a variety of connection configurations that make for easy cabinet wiring regardless of the application.

Faster, more efficient configurations and simplified installations also help optimize efficiency by streamlining tedious, time-wasting manual processes that once required high degrees of human intervention. Standard modular enclosures like Rittal’s TS 8 can also be configured without the need for specialized tooling, which helps reduce operational costs and maximizes production uptime. 

Strength and protection in uncontrolled manufacturing environments

One of the more pervasive myths about standard modular enclosures is that they lack the strength and security of more traditional unibody enclosures. The truth, however, is that modular enclosures are just as strong and durable even in the harshest manufacturing environments, and the modular design principle actually enhances the capacity to protect interior components. 

For example, the ease of plinth assembly and installation and simplified floor mounting process makes standard modular enclosures ideal for harsh, uncontrolled manufacturing environments. Additionally, a carbon steel base and enclosure frame and zinc-plated carbon steel mounting panels allow for superior rigidity and support. This frame-based design also provides 30% more stability with 15% less frame weight without sacrificing protection or reliability.

In terms of increased strength and security, Rittal’s line of standard modular enclosures are NEMA 4 and IP 66 rated to provide superior protection against the intrusion of potentially damaging particles, and four-point latches and seals prevent the entry of corrosive materials that could increase maintenance intervals and reduce the service life of the enclosure.

Our modular approach to enclosure design can also help protect your automation infrastructure by reducing the likelihood of electrical fault or arc flash. Rittal’s TS 8 flange mount disconnect enclosure utilizes mechanical interlocking doors to prevent entry while the enclosure is energized. In addition, the TS 8 flange mount disconnect modular enclosure can house adapter plates for high or low amperage disconnect handles to help reduce the risk of arc flash events.

Compatibility with the digital transformation in modern manufacturing

The variety of design configurations with standard modular enclosures means automation designers and engineers need the utmost visibility into each step of the engineering process. Such high levels of transparency are only achievable via a complete digital transformation of this process, and this is where combining modular enclosure systems with digital CAE platforms can help automation architects design smarter and better.  

For example, Rittal’s TS 8 standard modular enclosure is compatible with Eplan’s suite of design solutions to help engineers streamline workflows for installing electrical controls and panel assembly and wiring. 

In addition, pairing Rittal’s standard modular enclosures with Eplan’s powerful design platforms can help manufacturers overcome a variety of challenges in modern manufacturing, including: 

  • Increasing pricing pressures to be able to provide the right product at the right time within the right budget, especially as competition breeds a race to the bottom line
  • Skilled labor shortages that can result in increases in scrapped materials and revisions/alterations
  • Delivery pressures due to the rapidly changing and real-time demands to which manufacturers must respond 
  • Inefficient workflows via antiquated data capture, storage, and communication systems

Plus, the increased visibility and insight into your panel assembly and wiring processes also helps create a more connected ecosystem, and this is important in helping manufacturers better identify areas to increase their overall efficiency and productivity.

Curious about the other design features that make standard modular enclosures the ideal solution for manufacturers who are looking to grow and expand? Download our interactive modular enclosures guide to learn more. 

CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

Expert Advice: Retrofitting a Facility for Warehouse Automation

Guest Contributor:  Rittal North America LLC

The material handling industry has experienced some massive changes during the last few years: the acceleration of e-commerce, expansion into new and emerging markets, emphasis on rapid delivery, and increased importance of speed to market, to name a few.

As a result, material handlers are faced with the choice of expanding their operations either through new parcel processing facilities or retrofitting existing warehouses with state-of-the-art automation equipment. 

While the challenges of building a new automated warehouse are fairly cut and dry — location, resources, cost, and construction time — the hurdles that arise when retrofitting an existing facility for automation are more complicated. To help engineers in the material handling industry understand what they need to know when retrofitting a warehouse for a modern automation infrastructure, we’re giving the floor to a couple of our industrial automation experts:

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Sal Falzone, Rittal Vertical Marketing Manager, Retail & Logistics

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Semih Kocahasan, Account Manager

In this blog, Sal and Semih will discuss in their own words what material handlers should consider when retrofitting a facility for warehouse automation.

The importance of working around a smaller automation footprint

The first thing engineers and designers need to consider when retrofitting for automated material handling is the square footage of the space and the automation footprint necessary to facilitate the vast number of parcels that will be processed in the facility. 

Sal Falzone: Those looking to retrofit old facilities or those that were not used in this way will have to use different technologies. For example, overhead conveyor systems are one way to get creative with the lack of physical floor space in some of these facilities. 

Overhead conveyor systems utilize the space above the warehouse floor and such systems will require a compact industrial enclosure with variable mounting options and wiring flexibility within the box itself. 

Rittal’s AX compact enclosure is a wall mounted enclosure that can be easily customized to suit the needs of specific industrial applications without sacrificing the protection and security of mission-critical electronic components.

Semih Kocahasan: We’re seeing more and more small enclosures like the AX being spec’d for retrofitted material handling facilities — in fact, we’re also seeing small enclosures being used in new warehouses as well. I think that speaks to the versatility of the product.

The need for speed in material handling

The material handling industry is perhaps one of the most competitive in today’s market. The sheer number of parcels in the pipeline and the variety of material handlers processing them means the need for speed has never been greater. Prolonged lead times, disruptions in productivity, or unplanned maintenance intervals can be significant stumbling blocks. That’s why material handlers need industrial enclosure solutions that can be delivered and deployed quickly and easily. 

While supply chain disruptions are a common culprit in bogging down productivity, customization of industrial enclosures for use in retrofitted warehouses plays a significant role in deployment and integration delays. 

Semih Kocahasan: Speed really is the top concern for those looking to retrofit right now, especially with material scarcities and labor shortages. Standard enclosures that can be flexible in how they’re configured on the floor can not only increase speed-to-market, but  also provide assemblers and integrators more options in configuring the enclosure based on the need or specific application. 

Rittal’s VX SE Freestanding Enclosure System is a standard product that combines durability, versatility, and reliability for use in any material handling facility. 

Sal Falzone: The VX SE is a really interesting combo of a traditional unibody enclosure and a modular enclosure. That combination of protection and flexibility opens a lot of doors for material handlers as they evaluate the challenges of retrofitting while also weighing how quickly their enclosures can land at their loading dock and then be installed on the factory floor. 

The VX SE can easily be scaled based on demand or space constraints. The VX SE offers a wide range of dimensions with widths up to 1800 mm to replace up to three baying enclosures and depths starting at 300 mm for confined production applications. In addition, IP 66 and NEMA 4/4X ratings provide superior protection against harsh environmental conditions. 

Semih Kocahasan: Shortening your lead times is really the biggest pain point in retrofitting a space for warehouse automation. Companies that can alleviate that by going with standard products will put themselves in the best position to succeed.

Learn more about our products and solutions designed specifically for use in the material handling industry.  

Categories: Retail and Logistics

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CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

4 Applications that Benefit from LCP DX-Based Liquid Cooling

Guest Contributor, Herb Villa, Rittal

Liquid cooling of IT equipment, now at the row level instead of for an entire white space, is gaining momentum in the distributed data center world, where the demand for efficiency in cooling higher density racks is making IT professionals rethink their reliance on traditional methods. Various liquid cooling technologies – direct-to-chip, immersion, direct expansion and others – are winning favor in the different IT spaces. Why? Because they bring heat removal closer to the equipment, require little if any changes to infrastructure, and are easy to scale as demand grows; when you need to add more racks, additional cooling capacity is achieved with the cooling systems supporting increased IT enclosures.

Liquid cooling is especially advantageous for small and medium-sized businesses that have on-premise servers mounted in one or more enclosures. Many of the IT professionals supporting these organizations are forced to put these in some remote, out-of-the-way space within the building, assuming (wrongly) that as long as the building’s HVAC system has a vent terminating in that room, cooling the equipment won’t be a problem.

But we’ve seen that “comfort cooling,” which is the job of a facility’s HVAC system, isn’t adequate for server rack cooling and the demands of heat-generating IT equipment. Those demands are non-negotiable: precise temperature and humidity control, and proper airflow to get the heat away from the equipment.

Focusing on just a few different market sectors can illustrate the demands of the new IT environment. Hospital & healthcare, schools, factory floor, distribution centers are all examples of the types of organizations and facilities often forced to utilize spaces never intended to support the climate control needs of IT equipment: unused offices, janitors’ closets, corners of basements, etc. And because all rely on data to run their businesses, they’re all at risk of system failure because they aren’t addressing the critical climate needs of their IT investments.

Enclosure Climate Control in Hospitals

Data is critical in ensuring quality patient care and the smooth, efficient performance of even the smallest healthcare facilities. Hospitals, clinics and physician practice groups rely on IT equipment to store and transfer data among departments, achieve operational efficiency and maintain compliance using enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Without proper temperature, humidity and airflow control, the IT equipment that processes and stores necessary data could fail, and the cost of downtime and potential lost data is immeasurable.  There is also extremely limited space to place these systems; after all, the main business of a hospital is patient care, not IT.  Especially today in the midst of a global pandemic, healthcare facilities must maximize space for their patients, not their IT appliances.

Data Center Cooling in Education/School Campuses

What happens when a school’s “comfort cooling” system can’t keep up with all the heat being generated by the server room’s IT equipment (if they are lucky enough to even have such a space)? These systems are intended to keep humans comfortable, not maintain the precision and optimal air flow needed to remove heat generated by the IT equipment. Schools rely on IT equipment to help maintain productivity, organize data, and reduce time and effort of work that would otherwise be manual. Servers and processors enable insights that help administrators allocate the right resources to the right areas at the right time, connect campuses and departments, and speed communication between students, teachers, administrators and parents. And as with the healthcare sector, COVID-19 has placed enormous demands on bandwidth and compute capability as school systems have become virtual classrooms supporting remote learning applications and programs. This means more equipment, more heat, and less available installation space.

Server Rack Cooling in Manufacturing

Manufacturing facilities represent some of the most uncontrolled environments in which to place IT equipment. Wide temperature ranges, dust, debris, moisture and corrosive elements are all enemies of smooth factory floor operations, and because there is often no dedicated IT room (or at least one designed for IT), the risk of equipment degradation and failure is very real. Manufacturing organizations rely heavily on manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP systems for visibility into all aspects of the supply chain and production, and for seamless integration between the shop floor and Billing, Sales, Operations, HR and other departments.

Climate Control Units in Distribution

Distribution warehouses are notorious for having subpar climate control: they’re often either too hot or too cold; when air conditioning is running, cold air is “dumped” to the floor and doesn’t mix with warmer air near the ceiling (and the opposite situation when the heat is running); air flow throughout the building is almost impossible to control; and air leaks from the inside to outside and vice versa are common. Imagine, then, the effect of a poorly controlled climate in a small room where heat is being generated.

Like manufacturing, warehousing and distribution rely on up-to-date information about inventory, customers (through a CRM tool), fleet management, marketing, shipping and more. When equipment is compromised by temperatures that are too high (and in some cases too cold), all the data that’s used to ensure optimum facility and system performance is at risk for failure.

The best solution for cooling racks for these types of organizations is one that’s similar to a building’s own AC – one that uses direct expansion (DX). Heat removal is achieved with a compressor / condenser refrigeration cycle to reach and maintain a setpoint temperature and humidity level but that is designed to work at the cabinet (sometimes called enclosure) level.

Rittal’s DX-based solution (part of the Liquid Cooling [LCP] family of products) is ideal for businesses, like those above, that have “mission-critical” data needs but less-than-ideal data room options. The close coupled LCP DX 20kW provides a single or multiple IT enclosures with up to 20kW heat removal capacity, available in both closed loop rack and open loop inline options. Some of the benefits of this solution include:

  • A small footprint, making it appropriate for nearly any location within the building
  • Precise temperature and humidity control that responds to varying equipment heat loads
  • Local climate control – airflow is provided to one or more cabinets in a closed system, or cooling to the entire space in an open airflow configuration
  • Simple maintenance – tool-less fan replacement, easy-to-access electrical connections and remote notification of all operational parameters
  • Redundancy – up to 8 units can be interconnected, with coordinated air flow, alarms, and time-of-day operation
  • Reduce the need for a dedicated room to support IT equipment.  With proper planning and physical security, it is possible to place these systems out on the floor or shared space. The costs to build and maintain a dedicated IT room are eliminated

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR 20kW LCP RACK AND INLINE DX

Today, every organization, no matter the size or industry, relies on optimum IT equipment performance in order to meet its ongoing operational demands. If yours is putting rack cooling needs at the mercy of your building’s HVAC system, the risk of system downtime is very real, and the potential cost to operations significant. The best protection against system failure is to utilize IT cabinets with liquid cooling capabilities that offer precise control of temperature, humidity and airflow – all critical factors when it comes to ensuring that your organization’s work is never disrupted.

CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

Understanding Hygienic Zones

Guest Contributor: Rittal

In any facility that processes food, beverages or pharmaceuticals, cleanliness is the absolute top priority. To avoid product contamination and bacteria growth, these facilities have strict cleaning requirements that include the use of aggressive cleaning agents and high-power spray wash downs. In order to protect the critical components for these processing lines, enclosures, accessories and equipment must be specified properly and meet facility requirements including IP69K,

Because of the variations in processes and practices in each section of these facilities, the cleaning and equipment requirements will vary by each hygienic zone. The infographic below defines the Basic, Medium and High Hygiene zones as well as outlines what specific considerations you should keep in mind for specifying systems and enclosures.

Hygienic Zones

Hygienic Zones Infographic

When specifying equipment for hygienic zones, look specifically for hygienic designs. For more information on selecting control panels and HMIs in these facilities, check out our article in Machine Design Magazine. Additional design guidance for food and beverage facilities can be found by downloading the Food and Beverage Handbook.

CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

The Enclosure Testers

Guest contributor: Rittal LTD

Rittal’s innovative VX25 enclosure was recently put through its paces by technicians from the Schaper Group. 

Their observations on the new enclosure are notably around improved operational efficiencies and increased productivity. These offer interesting insights for other operators, and indeed anyone who has the final say on enclosure technology.

Sometimes, it’s the smallest things that make all the difference.  For Eugen Franzen, the team leader for mechanical installation at Controller Steuerungstechnik GmbH, part of the Schaper Group, it was an almost nondescript detail that won him over.

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“The hole counting on the new frame sections means we can now pinpoint precisely where enclosure mounting parts should go,” he says.

This tiny, time-saving addition means operators can mount support rails or cable clamp rails at identical heights across all their enclosures, easily and with confidence. “Previously, we often had to revisit such details, which always involved extra work that we no longer have to worry about.” says Eugene.

It’s a welcome productivity improvement for Schaper Group teams, who like many in the sector, juggle fit-to-burst order books and high time/cost pressures, with the ever-present lack of specialist workers.

“All in all, we currently have seven vacancies in the manufacturing department alone and could hire trained applicants on the spot,” explains Nils Mentrup, technical manager at Schaper Steuerungstechnik GmbH.   Automated solutions that deliver a higher output with fewer trained staff offer Nils some relief.  But clearly new components and systems that save time during assembly also boost efficiency in manufacturing operations.

At the company’s cutting-edge manufacturing plant in Herford, Germany, everything is state of the art, meticulously planned and perfectly organised.

The facility, which features numbered wiring areas, was built in 2009 more than doubled in size in the last year.  Seventy workers manufacture control and switchgear solutions of various sizes at the site. “Thanks to the facility’s expansion, we now have enough space to produce several large systems 30 to 40 metres in length at once,” explains Nils.

They have just completed their first control systems using Rittal’s new VX25 enclosure.

“Its predecessor, TS 8, was a flawless enclosure,” recalls Nils. “That’s why we were pleasantly surprised that Rittal had evidently put a lot of thought into many different potential improvements when it devised the VX25.”

His attention has been on the reduced number of mounting parts and the positive impact this has had in terms of storage: “You see it straight away because storage is less of an issue now – both in our central warehouse and the parts warehouses for the individual projects that we set up directly at our workstations.”

Greater stability

The stability of the VX25 also meets the team’s approval.

“The enclosure itself is more stable now – that’s one of its major benefits,” say Eugene.

This is particularly apparent in the new gland plates.

When fitters are expanding enclosures they have to repeatedly go inside them. “In the past, the gland plates were often somewhat bent as a result, meaning we had to carry out reworking,” remembers Eugene. This is now a thing of the past, which of course adds to the overall time saving.   Added to which, there is the enclosure flooring’s design: “The frame is now designed so that there is no space between it and the gland plate. Back in the day, we often had problems with a screw falling down the gap,” he explains.

The new hinges allow the team to remove the enclosure doors without levering any hinge pins.  Eugene advises: “Even if we don’t plan to carry out machining on one of our Perforex machining centres, we usually take the enclosure doors off because it makes wiring so much easier.”

This particularly applies to larger switchgear, where wires need to be installed across multiple enclosures. “The time saved in assembly and dismantling can be anything up to one minute or more for each enclosure,” he adds.

“We also no longer have to wonder which rail goes where because with the VX25, the rails fit on both the vertical and horizontal frame parts and can be fitted from the side or the rear.” This means the team can now screw on a rail from the back, even if the mounting plate has already been fitted in the enclosure.

“In the past, if we ever forgot about the rail – which is an absolute must for some switchgear built to UL – we had to take the mounting plate apart or at least tip it forwards.” This is no longer the case, making life a lot easier for the team, and extends to fitting mounting components or side/rear panels.

“During assembly work, we always used to have two cordless screwdrivers that were equipped with the appropriate screw bits – now we only need one,” says Eugene.  The principle of one-person assembly has also won the team leader over.  “I can simply attach the rear panel at the top and it stays securely in position until I’ve tightened the screws.”

For any team, switching to new technology or products can create issues.  “At the start, most people are sceptical whenever things change, but we found the switchover to be quick and seamless,” says a delighted Nils.

This smooth transition is helped by the VX25 conversion assistant – a web-based tool that enables customers to simply convert parts lists from projects planned using the TS 8 into parts lists for the VX25.  Teams simply drag and drop their old parts lists onto the designated site, upload them as Excel files, and download the new parts lists once converted.

Even 3D engineering plans generated by Eplan Pro Panel can be converted without virtually no manual intervention. “Now that the first two large systems with the new enclosure are nearly finished, we have a good handle on how the conversion works,” says Nils.

Fast assembly

There are other time-saving aspects to dealing with Rittal.  For example, the company’s 24-hour delivery service.

“Nowadays, most units that we use in our systems take a relatively long time to deliver – that’s not the case with Rittal enclosures, which are always delivered the day after we place the order.” says Nils.

“We’re going to spread the word among our customers and we’re certain that they’ll soon see the benefits, too.”

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CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

System Perfection – VX25

Guest contributor: Rittal Ltd.

The VX25 is the first large enclosure system capable of meeting the technical requirements of Industry 4.0 to perfection, while at the same time ensuring faster, more productive assembly. This Rittal innovation is the result of our tireless striving for MORE: more simplicity, more speed, more benefits. More than 25 registered property rights confirm the reputation Rittal has earned as the leading innovator in enclosure technology.

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1. Efficient processes

End-to-end, accurate, validated 3D data ensure a high level of planning confidence from the outset. A plausibility check in the Rittal Configuration System facilitates fast, error-free configuration of products and accessories.

2. Reduced complexity

In the VX25, we have managed to successfully replicate all the functions of the predecessor model TS 8 with far fewer accessory parts, while creating new functions and adding value. A consistent 25 mm pitch pattern across all levels and between enclosures has helped to significantly reduce the number of individual parts – for example, 40 per cent fewer punched sections/rails.

3. Improved access

The VX25 is accessible from all four sides, because components can now also be fitted to the outer mounting level from the outside. This saves 30 minutes compared with conventional assembly.  The same applies to the new option of installing mounting plates from the rear.

4. Simple interior installation

Fast assembly is facilitated by complete symmetry on all vertical and horizontal enclosure sides. The installation depth can also be increased by 20 mm with optional accessories. Multiple mounting plates can also be installed in one enclosure.

5. Tool-free installation

The simple, tool-free assembly of the handle system reduces assembly time by 50 percent. Similarly, doors can also be fitted and removed without the need for tools.

6. More functions

Even enclosure accessories can now be built into the base. For example, baying brackets and cable clamp rails can be installed there, and cables can be simply and efficiently retained and secured via the punched sections. Not only does that save time and money, it also boosts safety.

Learn more: https://www.rittal.com/com_en/vx25/index.php?lng=en

 

Understanding Edge Computing

Guest Contributor: Rittal

With the growth of Artificial Intelligence or AI machinery that takes in information, learns and makes decisions, Edge computing will become not only necessary, but mandatory. The need to process data at the source to ensure acceptable performance will continue to grow with AI and AI will only be able to grow as fast as data storage capabilities grow. edge_923x340

 

To ensure acceptable performance of data processing at the source and reduce latency, Edge Computing will become more important. Formerly only used by large corporations, Edge is now being utilized by small to medium businesses that need services such as peer-to-peer networking, mobile signature analysis, mobile data acquisition, and AI. In the case of machinery, this puts Edge Computing outside of a traditional data center environment and the need for small portable data centers with cooling will spread. According to a recent IDC study by 2020, more than 70% of infrastructure-centric partners will become involved in IoT and Edge Deployment.

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Rittal started in the Industrial Market which is geared towards machinery and outside applications including dust/moisture proof NEMA 12 enclosures here in the U.S. in the 1980’s. Rittal continues to lead the world in global enclosure solutions that include all types of environments. From dirty and extreme temperature fluctuations, to typical clean and climate-controlled environments, Rittal has the right solution for you.

Edge Computing Defined

Edge computing houses data processing capability at or near the “edge” of a network. Usually, servers are contained in a micro data center, with as few as one or two enclosures. Data which is mission-critical, such as a system fail, is captured and available in real-time on site. Edge computing is valuable in capturing bandwidth intensive and latency sensitive data for analysis, lowering operating costs and improving energy efficiency. Lower priority data can be sent to the cloud or to a remote data center.

In Edge Computing, client data is processed at the periphery of the network, as close to the source of the originating data as possible. Companies are moving toward edge computing, driven by economics and efficiency. In edge computing architecture, critical data is processed at the point of origin via a server in close proximity to the output, for immediate and easy access. Data which is not as time sensitive is sent to the cloud or a data center for longer term storage, analysis or compliance record keeping.

The practice of edge computing alleviates the load on network resources. By processing data at the source, only the data required for transfer is shifted to a remote data center or cloud. The amount of data transmitted reduces the strain on bandwidth, and by specifying criteria, data can be sorted to provide key analytics at the site and to push non-essential data to the center.

With IoT and the proliferation of smart devices, edge computing becomes particularly valuable when massive data pushes would overload a data center. When monitoring enclosure temperature for example, it is unnecessary to upload data which will only be valuable to the operations manager in real time. If this data has historical value, it can be pushed to a data center at a later time, or when bandwidth is not at a premium. With edge computing, this illustrates one of its major benefits.

Since edge computing reduces response time to milliseconds, adjustments at the site level can be made almost simultaneously. However, the cloud and data centers will not be made obsolete, since the long term storage capacity is still needed.

Although edge reduces latency and improves accessibility, security concerns and configuration architecture must be addressed. With the distributed architecture of an edge security system, points are increased for system attack. Security breaches and infectious malware may be introduced at vulnerable points.

With the configuration of the device, secure default passwords need to be placed on each device, and vigilance applied to the updating of software to avoid infiltration of malware. Even with the potential points of vulnerability, the overwhelming advantage of the decreased latency and the instant data accessibility overwhelming support the use of edge computing to improve efficiency.

Learn more: https://www.rittal.us/contents/category/products/data-center-solutions/

 

Modular Enclosure Accessories Improve Customization and Scalability

Guest Contributor: Rittal Enclosures

5 accessories to enhance TS 8 enclosure functionality  

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With 12 million units sold around the globe, the TS 8 modular enclosure is established as the worldwide-standard. As businesses grow and enclosure needs evolve, many customers are turning to a variety of accessories to scale their solutions. 

These five accessories for lighting, power distribution, viewing and operating, climate control, and assembly are the most popular customizations design engineers and facilities managers are utilizing to maximize their investments. 

1 – For Lighting: LED Compact Lighting System

The Rittal LED Compact Lighting System is a safe, energy-efficient, extra-low-voltage interior lighting solution that delivers full coverage to all corners of the enclosure.  

Enterprise-ready and suitable for voltages ranging from 100–240 V (AC) and 24 V (DC), the LED system can be installed tool-free with clips that connect to a latch-in hook pattern—though optional screw fastening is also available. Magnetic installation is another option, for free positioning within the enclosure. Whichever assembly option you choose, motion detectors or door-operated switches for hands-free illumination are also available.  

2 – For Power Distribution: RiLine Busbar System 

In many regions around the world, busbar systems are the predominant solution for managing power needs now, and in the future. For engineers not familiar with the technology, the RiLine copper busbar system provides reliable power distribution and requires less panel modification, contact points, and wiring work. Busbar systems save space and time for panel builders and offer more contact hazard protection than other cable management options. 

3 – For Viewing Windows and Operating Panels: WKDH Deep Hinged Window Kit 

The Deep-Hinged Window Kit is ideal for installing a viewing window where access to components mounted behind it is required. It is designed to protect HMI displays and components mounted on enclosure panels from wash-downs, rain, snow, sleet, dirt, and dust. The window depth allows for extra-deep pushbuttons (~2”/50mm) and comes with a full-size drill template for easy mounting.  

4 – For Climate Control: TopTherm Filter Fans 

Simply and efficiently manage air flow in your enclosure with filter fans designed for tool-free, snap-in mounting and installation. The TopTherm filter fan’s new diagonal fan technology creates greater pressure stability and constant airflow when installed, even with a contaminated filter mat. This new technology also allows air currents to spread diagonally from the fan, promoting even circulation throughout an enclosure. 

5 – For Base Assembly: Flex-Block Base/Plinth System 

Save assembly time with high-strength plastic corner pieces that clip together base/plinth components. With this system, enclosure transport is uncomplicated, both empty and fully-configured, by removing the base/plinth trim panel. Plus, cable management is straightforward and efficient, saving space for enclosure configuration.

Modular Enclosure Buyers GuideRittal Is Engineered Better 

Whatever your enclosure needs, Rittal has an extensive line of accessories to optimize enclosure functions. Download the Modular Enclosure Buyer’s Guide to see how Rittal products are better than the competition!

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CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.

Balancing the Value of Air-to-Air and Air-to-Water Heat Exchangers

Guest contributor: Eric Corzine, Product Manager Climate Control, Rittal

Heat exchangers provide highly efficient cooling for electrical components. As energy costs increase, they are getting more consideration by system designers. Before making a design decision between air-to-air and air-to-water heat exchangers,  it is important to weigh installation considerations and use-cases. Here, we have provided an overview of each technology to help you determine which can best impact your equipment and your bottom line.

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Air-to-air heat exchangers are the most common type of exchangers. They work by utilizing the difference between the hotter internal temperature of an enclosure and the cooler, ambient air temperature. Engineers can implement air-to-air exchangers in a variety of industrial environments, including food and beverage, waste and wastewater, and automotive.

Air-to-air exchangers can utilize existing airflow patterns, through convection or forced air, and do not require additional accessories or equipment. The technology can utilize the airflow within an enclosure or can connect to existing ductwork and HVAC systems.

There are some limitations to air-to-air heat exchangers, particularly in the climates they could be installed. For instance, if the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is to great then the effectiveness of the exchangers can be significantly reduced. Recent technology upgrades, however, have made air-to-air exchangers functional even in climates that reach temperatures of -13°F.

These factors make air-to-air heat exchangers useful in applications where plumbing for liquid cooling would be difficult to install, and where existing air flow patterns and equipment layout allow for effective cooling. Often, this means situations with moderate thermal loads. HVAC engineers can install them quickly as well, which reduces setup time and costs. However, they are still less efficient compared to air-to-water exchangers because air is not as effective at transferring heat as water.

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Air-to-water heat exchangers use the same principle of temperature differential to provide heating or cooling, however, they alter the temperature of air by forcing it across water coils.

Because of the efficient heat transfer capabilities of water, they can help reduce energy use and utility costs significantly. This is especially useful in situations with large thermal loads, such as IT mainframe applications or an automotive manufacturing environment where water is already available.

One of the drawbacks of air-to-water heat exchangers is the need to pipe water to the unit. The technology requires plumbing and a reliable water supply or recirculation system, which often means pumps, valves, and other accessories.

These plumbing concerns often mean higher installation costs, so engineers need to balance the initial cost with the expected savings over the lifetime of the exchanger. Overall, air-to-water exchangers are useful for high-demand, energy intensive applications.

Making the Right Choice

It is important to consider the right exchanger for your specific climate control situation. The ultimate decision will balance installation and operational costs, target cooling capacity and thermal loads.

Air-to-air exchangers can get up and running quickly and engineers can integrate them into many different kinds of applications easily. Air-to-water exchangers deliver better efficiency and can suit more energy-demanding applications, but they require plumbing and water supplies, which may not always be available. The ultimate choice, then, should consider these factors and engineers should thoroughly research both types of exchangers to understand which one will best suit their application.

Learn more about climate control at Rittal.com 

About Us

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CMA/Flodyne/Hydradyne is an authorized  Rittal distributor in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northern Indiana.

In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.