If you are looking to install an electrical enclosure, you need to carefully consider what material you want the enclosure to be made from. Most electrical enclosures are either made from metal, fiberglass or plastic. Each enclosure type carries with it their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Learning about these pros and cons can help you select the correct enclosure type based on your circumstances. Keep reading to learn a couple of the pros and cons associated with fiberglass electrical enclosures.
The Cons of Fiberglass Electrical Enclosures
- Fiberglass Can Warp When Exposed to Sunlight
One of the top cons associated with fiberglass electrical enclosures is that fiberglass can warp when it is exposed to direct sunlight. The UV rays of the sun cause fiberglass to develop what is known as fiber blooms. Over time, these blooms warp the material, which alters the shape and the appearance of the electrical enclosure. If you are placing the enclosures in direct sunlight, fiberglass may not be the ideal material for your enclosure.
- Fiberglass Can Shatter or Splinter When Worked With
The other disadvantage to fiberglass electrical enclosures is that fiberglass can shatter or splinter when you are working with it. Some types of enclosures can be cut down to size yourself. For example, trimming plastic and metal is an option. However, the average person cannot and should not trim fiberglass, as the risk of it shattering or splintering is high. As such, if you cannot find the size enclosure you need, fiberglass may not be the right material for your project.
The Pros of Fiberglass Electrical Enclosures
- Fiberglass Does Not Rust or Corrode
One of the major advantages associated with fiberglass electrical enclosures is that fiberglass does not rust or corrode. Traditionally, metal has been the go-to material for electrical enclosures. However, when they are placed outdoors or in humid environments, they corrode or rust. This is one of the reasons more people are selecting plastic and fiberglass for their enclosures these days.
- Fiberglass is Inexpensive
The other benefit to fiberglass electrical enclosures is that they are inexpensive. Many people think that fiberglass is an expensive material. However, on average, fiberglass is actually cheaper than both metal and plastic enclosures. This makes this material a great option for those who want an electrical enclosure for as cheap as possible.
Fiberglass electrical enclosures are ideal in some situations and not ideal in others. Learning the upsides and downsides associated with this product allows you to determine if they are ideal in your situation.
