BL2607-custom-sized-enclosures

HELPING US TO HELP YOU

As electronic enclosure designers, we love to see drawings – preferably as early as possible in the specification process. But we also need something more: we need to know the design intent behind your perfect enclosure.

Drawings and 3D models are vital to the process but it’s a missed opportunity to think of specifying custom sizes, CNC machining and fixings/inserts as a purely drawing-based exercise. Early conversations with our engineering team can help to identify features that may be difficult, costly or unnecessary to machine. Small changes to hole locations, corner radii, aperture shapes or panel layouts can sometimes reduce manufacturing time and cost without affecting functionality.

When we fully understand what the feature is intended to achieve, we can often suggest a simpler, more robust or more cost-effective way of achieving the same result. This collaborative approach typically produces better enclosures and faster lead times.

MAKING IT EASIER TO SPECIFY CUSTOM SIZES

When requesting a custom-sized enclosure, it pays to define the functional requirements rather than simply specifying external dimensions – we may be able to suggest a smarter solution that you hadn’t envisaged.

That’s because we offer plenty of options. Over the years, we’ve increased the number of METCASE 19" rack cases and instrument enclosures that can be specified in custom sizes in all three dimensions – it’s a hallmark of our newer models.

And don’t wait until your PCB layout is finalised before discussing your enclosure requirements. Early engagement with us gives you a wider choice of possible solutions – and more ways to help you get the most from your budget.

When considering enclosure sizes, it’s important to allow sufficient clearance for connectors, wiring, batteries, displays and cooling requirements. An enclosure that is too tightly specified can create manufacturing challenges and make installation of components more difficult than necessary. And please tell us about your tolerance expectations as soon as you can. This helps to ensure that critical dimensions are identified and accommodated appropriately.

Sharing CAD files, PCB layouts and pdf drawings with us as soon as you can is extremely valuable. They help us to understand the application in more detail and optimise the enclosure design. Often, a small adjustment to the enclosure dimensions can simplify manufacturing and reduce costs.

It’s also helpful to specify all the modifications at the same time. If machining, apertures, ventilation slots, threaded inserts, PCB pillars and custom finishing are likely to be required, providing these requirements early enables us to assess the complete project and recommend the most efficient solution.

SMARTER CUSTOM MACHINING

Our advanced CNC technology delivers high-quality machining: punching, folding, milling, drilling and tapping. When specifying custom machining, it helps to show us which features matter most. Precision is everything in all aspects of manufacture and customisation but display windows, connector openings and mounting holes usually need tighter positional accuracy than ventilation slots. Understanding the ‘why’ behind these dimensions helps us to apply the right tolerances.

Please also provide details of any electronic components that interface with the enclosure. Connector datasheets, display specifications and switch dimensions allow us to verify cut-out sizes and ensure that components fit correctly.

Please explain how the enclosure will be used and assembled, including the locations of PCBs, display(s), power supply and cable harnesses. This broader understanding often reveals opportunities to simplify the machining or improve component access.

SPECIFY FIXINGS AND INSERTS EARLY

METCASE enclosures come with plenty of component mounting options as standard. And many models have earthing studs on all panels as a matter of course. If you need more threaded inserts, PCB pillars, studs or other assembly hardware, please specify them alongside the machining requirements (rather than as a separate request later in the project). Viewing the enclosure as a complete assembly rather than a collection of individual modifications often leads to a more efficient and cost-effective solution.

Threaded PCB pillars (standoffs) are among the most commonly specified inserts. They provide secure mounting points for printed circuit boards and ensure consistent spacing between the PCB and the enclosure body. You can help us by supplying PCB drawings, mounting hole locations and the required stand-off heights. This allows mounting points to be positioned accurately and ensures adequate clearance beneath the board.

Self-clinching nuts can also be incorporated where threaded fastening points are needed within the enclosure. They are particularly useful for securing internal mounting plates, PCB support brackets, power supplies, transformers and other sub-assemblies. These nuts also reduce part count and simplify assembly.

FIND OUT MORE

Other METCASE enclosure customisation services include custom front panels, painting and finishing, and photo-quality digital printing of legends, logos and graphics.

View our full range of customisation services >>

View our FAQ page for more answers >>