Source smarter with
Leverage AI to find the perfect product match in seconds
Matches from over 100 million products with precision
Handles queries 3 times as complex in half the time
Verifies and cross-validates product information
Get the app
Get the Alibaba.com app
Find products, communicate with suppliers, and manage and pay for your orders with the Alibaba.com app anytime, anywhere.
Learn more

Small aluminum enclosures

(5321 products available)

About small aluminum enclosures

Types of Small Aluminum Enclosures

There are several types of small aluminium enclosures, each designed for specific applications. These enclosures are often chosen for their strength, lightweight properties, and resistance to corrosion.

The following subtypes are prevalent:
  • U Series Aluminium Small Enclosures

    U series housings are uncomplicated, versatile solutions for basic electrical, electronic, or computer components. They feature a simple box, lid, and mounting plate structure. They are often seen in non-hazardous settings, on walls, in cabinets, or on desktops, for example. They are easy to install, provide good protection, and can be used in a range of industries.

  • IP68 Small Aluminium Enclosures

    The IP68 rating means such enclosures are completely dustproof and waterproof at specified depths and durations. IP68 housings are excellent for outdoor or marine applications where water, dust, or mud is prevalent. They still provide the added strength and heat dissipation of aluminium. They are often used to protect sensitive components in harsh environments.

  • DIN Rail Aluminium Enclosures

    DIN rail enclosures feature a design compatible with mounting on standard DIN rails. The user could, therefore, easily integrate these enclosures into existing industrial control panels. They often provide multiple compartments for organising components. These enclosures are popular in electrical, automation, and process control applications.

  • Exproof IP68 Small Aluminium Enclosures

    Exproof (explosion-proof) housings with IP68 certification are specifically intended for hazardous areas where explosive atmospheres may occur, whilst also providing superior protection against water and dust ingress. These enclosures are made to contain internal explosions and prevent external ignition. These are crucial in the oil and gas, chemical, and mining industries.

  • Custom CNC Made Small Aluminium Enclosures

    The above enclosures may be produced via CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining for very precise, custom-fit designs. This process can create enclosures tailored to precisely fit unique components or spaces. It also allows for complex designs and any other custom features, such as mounting points or ventilation. CNC enclosures are mostly used in high-tech electronics, medical devices, and aerospace applications.

Small Aluminium Enclosure Features

Aluminium boxes include several features. They include:

  • Durability and Strength

    Aluminium itself is a lightweight yet extremely strong material. Weighing just one-third as heavy as stainless steel, and yet just as hard and tough. The lightness does not compromise on strength since it can withstand heavy loads and impacts. Asides this, the addition of an enclosure protects its contents from mechanical or environmental damage. Ref protection from drops, hits, vibrations, etc. The durable construct of an enclosure increases the lifespan of whatever is inside it.

  • Corrosion Resistance

    Aluminium is naturally resistant to corrosion. This is due to the formation of a protective oxide layer whenever it is exposed to moisture or air. It does not easily rust or deteriorate like other metals, for example, iron or steel. It makes small aluminium enclosures ideal for outdoor applications where weather conditions may be extreme. Think water, humidity, UV exposure, etc.

  • Lightweight Design

    Despite its amazing strength, aluminium is very light compared to many other metals. It weighs just one-third as heavy as steel, for instance. This lightness makes small aluminium enclosures very easy to transport, install, and mount in various positions without the extra weight becoming a hindrance. The reduced weight is even more appreciated in mobile or aerospace applications where every ounce counts.

  • Heat Dissipation

    As a good conductor, aluminium dissipates heat much better than several other materials. The heat generated by electronic components can escape easily through the enclosure via convection. This helps to maintain the internal operating temperatures of devices so they do not overheat and lose functionality. Overheating causes damage and a reduced lifespan. The heat dissipation also ensures the devices operate at optimum performance levels.

  • Customisation Options

    Small aluminium enclosures be too easily customised for size, cutouts, mounts, etc. The options are virtually limitless since they can be CNC machined, stamped, and more. There’s flexibility in terms of design for specific applications. Customisation allows businesses to create enclosures that precisely fit their electronic components and protect them well, while also meeting industry standards regarding dimensional requirements.

Small Aluminium Enclosure Uses

The following are some common uses for aluminium enclosure boxes:

  • Protecting Electronics

    Small aluminium enclosures protect electronic circuits, boards, and devices from physical damage, moisture, dust, debris, etc. This is potentialy important for extending their operational lives. There are examples of such applications that are widely used in the consumer electronics industry. This is also true for industrial controls, medical equipment, etc. These enclosures often have precision cutouts for cables, displays, and switches, allowing for seamless integration into electronic systems.

  • Automation and Control Systems

    Small aluminium boxes are mounted to control panels in industrial automation systems. Devices like relays, sensors, and controllers are housed here to prevent interference and provide protection. These enclosures typically have DIN rail mounting capabilities for easy installation in existing frameworks. Their strength and lightweightness make them ideal for use in factory control systems and equipment monitoring.

  • Outdoor and Marine Applications

    The naturally corrosion-resistant aluminium makes these enclosures perfect for outdoor or marine environments. They are used to protect electrical and electronic components in oil and gas, renewable energy, and telecommunications. IP (Ingress Protection) rated enclosures are featured to ensure waterproofness and dustproofness, giving optimal protection in extreme conditions like deep water. There is also Exproof housing for explosive marine environments.

  • Medical Devices

    Medical devices must be stored in enclosures that are not only hygienic, but easily cleaned, corrosion-resistant, and capable of shielding sensitive components from electromagnetic interference. Small aluminium enclosures meet all these requirements in medical equipment monitoring systems and diagnostic devices inside and outside medical facilities. These enclosures are often custom-made to comply with strict medical safety standards.

  • Aerospace and Defence

    Small aluminium enclosures play key roles in protecting critical avionics, communication, navigation, and sensor systems, whilst saving weight through use of alumnium over steel. Small IP68 aluminium enclosures keep these systems working in harsh environments like air and space. They are typically designed to military standards for strength and endurance, and to remain functional under extreme conditions.

How To Choose Small Aluminium Enclosures

Below are some important considerations to help select the most suitable small aluminium enclosure:

  • IP Rating

    This is basically for the working environment. Where will the enclosure be used? Are there harsh environmental conditions like water, dust, or chemicals? How about extreme temperatures? Aluminium boxes with high IP ratings are great for outdoor and hazardous areas. They have heat and moisture dissipation properties that keep contents safe.

  • Size and Dimensions

    The enclosures are awesome at holding small elements. But what size goes best? Consider the dimensions and keep any space constraints in mind. How much room are there for mounting? Ensure the enclosure has enough internal space for components with some allowance, yet isn’t too bulky externally.

  • Customisation Needs

    Are there any special requirements? How about specific cutouts, mounting points, or mounting requests? Small enclosures aluminium is commonly custom made through CNC machining to meet exact specifications. This ensures an impeccable fit for protection and functionality.

  • Strength and Durability

    However, not all these enclosures are created equal. What alloy or thickness are they, though? Are they IP68 rated? High-quality aluminium boxes will withstand exertion whilst resisting corrosion. Look out for standards like MIL-STD, ISO, and IEC to know they adhere to industry protocols.

  • Cost Considerations

    All these factors boil down to having a clear picture of cost. Maintenance and replacement are long-term considerations too. However, what is the budget and how much investment will be made getting an enclosure that meets safety requirements?

Q&A

Q1: How do aluminium enclosures protect electronic components?

A1: Aluminium boxes shield devices from impacts, moisture, and electromagnetic interference. They dissipate heat generated by the devices inside as well.

Q2: What industries commonly use these enclosures?

A2: Industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, telecommunications, and aerospace use these enclosures to safeguard their electrical equipment.

Q3: What makes aluminium resistant to corrosion?

A3: Aluminium forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to air, preventing further oxidation. It is also much lighter than stainless steel.

Q4: What are the IP ratings for these enclosures?

A4: The IP internal protection ratings refer to how well sealed an enclosure is against dust and water. IP68 means totally dustproof and waterproof at specified depths and durations.

Q5: How are these enclosures customised?

A5: CNC machining allows precise cutouts, mounts, and other features tailored to specific requirements, making the enclosures great for high-tech electronics, medical devices and aerospace applications.