Factors Influencing The Selection Of Metal For Enclosures

From prototype to mass production, one of the biggest challenges in designing and manufacturing is choosing the type of material for the end product. Before learning about metal for the product, let’s see the wide range of industries where customized enclosures are used as handheld objects to wall-mounted or large structures.

Now let’s discuss in detail the determinants that designer research while choosing a metal in the process of commissioning a customized enclosure.

The price of metals varies based on the durability and strength it offers even at verse climatic conditions. Stainless steel is costly among others due to the high corrosion resistance it provides. The stainless factor is added to steel by combining chromium and nickel content to it. For indoor applications, you can go for low priced metals like Aluminium; however, for outdoor and humid climatic conditions less corrosive metals which are costs significantly more, are a wise option.

Environmental friendly

With increased concern and awareness of environmental factors, conscious steps to use environment-friendly metals are encouraged.

Designers and manufacturers prefer metals with little or no carbon footprint, are sustainable and are endlessly recyclable with the least energy consumption. Aluminium proves to be the best choice in this aspect.

Aesthetics

The phrase “form follows function” is rewritten to the current usage as “function follows form”, pointing to the increased value of the appearance of a product. However, being aesthetically compelling and functionally a failure is of no use. Products with sleek and simple designs with neat finishing are of high demand now. Make sure that the product meets it’s very objective for purchase with aesthetically warming presentation.

Weightless products are an all-time favorite for end-users as they are easy to handle, carry and maintain. Enclosures are preferred to be of low weight as the things it contains or hold inside adds to the gross weight of the end product. Being weightless never rules out the need for robust and secure enclosures. If the product demands a timely location shift, it is advisable to make it less bulky and weightless.

Considering the above factors, Aluminium proves to match every mentioned criterion for the best metal for a customized enclosure. It is a cost-effective metal used for common purposes. Aluminium offers corrosion resistance to an extent. Aluminium is lightweight, malleable and can be shaped to the requirements with much ease.

Originally published at http://rainbowaluminium.com on February 29, 2020.