The correct term for an outdoor electrical box is an ‘electrical enclosure’. The main function and purpose of an electrical enclosure is to keep electrical wiring and equipment safe from environmental factors, and to prevent people from being exposed to dangerous electrical currents.

Electrical boxes are made from a variety of materials including mild steel, stainless steel, and polyester. They can prevent dust and water from entering the box, ensuring that all electrical wiring and components mounted inside of the box are protected. Electrical boxes can also protect the electrical components held within from higher temperatures when fitted with cooling fans and systems.

Outdoor Electrical Box: Cover All the Bases

Electrical boxes are a health and safety precaution. In South Africa, a business owner or property owner can be held liable when an employee is severely shocked. This can cause a multitude of lawsuits, and can consequently also cost the company a lot of money. For this reason, electrical boxes that can seal properly, are made of a hardy material, can lock, and are fitted with other precautionary measures, can save a company from ruin. 

It is important to note that your chosen electrical box should have the correct IP Rating. An IP Rating is an international standard, that is used to define how effectively an electronic box is sealed against intrusion from people, and environmental aspects. At ATI Systems, our electrical boxes have an IP Rating of up to IP65, ensuring the safety of your electrical components.

Different Materials and Their Benefits

As mentioned, electrical boxes can come in a variety of materials, each having its own benefits.

• Stainless Steel: this is a costly option; however, it makes up for the price tag in its longevity. It is corrosion resistant, and deals well with extreme temperatures (often caused by the number of electrical components within an electrical box). While being lightweight, it is extremely resilient.
• Mild Steel: this is a subset of stainless steel and is thus recyclable. As a material, mild steel is easy to weld, ensuring your electrical box has no openings through which dust and water can enter. It is a highly affordable material, while being strong and durable.
• Polyester: even though polyester is a plastic, it has resistance to chemicals and moisture. It is a material that boasts the ability to insulate, and holds up well when temperature fluctuations occur. This is due to the material contracting and expanding proportionately to the temperature experienced. It will not corrode and does not hold the danger of conducting electricity.

Where to Find an Outdoor Electrical Box

At ATI Systems we stock a large variety of electrical boxes, ensuring that you will find the right fit for your environment. To find out more about our outdoor electrical boxes, and how they can benefit you, contact us at ATI Systems.