Modifying NEMA enclosures
Modifying NEMA enclosures
(OP)
I have a lighting panelboard and local control panel mounted in seperate NEMA 1 enclosures. These enclosures are located outdoors, where a NEMA 3R enclosure should have been provided. Does anyone know of any aftermarket kits that can be used to modify these NEMA 1 enclosures to a NEMA 3R ennclosure.
Any input is appreciated.
Thank you.
Any input is appreciated.
Thank you.






RE: Modifying NEMA enclosures
Steve
RE: Modifying NEMA enclosures
The differences are significant enough that it may not be possible at all. If the NEMA 1 enclosure has any knockouts you will be completely out of luck. Most NEMA 1 doors/covers are also so different from NEMA 3R that even if you have a solid box, you might not be able to get a door/cover that would be acceptable.
RE: Modifying NEMA enclosures
UL / NEMA ratings have two designations: the protection of the interior from the elements and the protection of the enclosure itself from the elements. NEMA 1 and NEMA 12 are both classified as "Indoor use Only" and cannot be used outdoors regardless of what kits you install. Look on the inside of the door, it says either "Indoor Use" or "Suitable for Outdoor Use". If it says Indoor, the paint and pre-treatment are insufficient to withstand the rigors of outdoor exposure to the elements. NEMA 3R, the lowest level of outdoor use enclosure, is subjected to a salt spray test as an accelerated aging procedure.
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RE: Modifying NEMA enclosures
Your tripping over a dollar to pick up a dime.