Electric enclosures might not be the flashiest piece of equipment in your workspace—but they’re absolutely vital. From keeping your sensitive electronics protected against dust, moisture, and tampering, to making sure your operations run smoothly and safely, the right enclosure makes all the difference.
In this post, we’re diving into what makes a great electric enclosure, the key features you should always look for, and why GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) is becoming the material of choice over more traditional alternatives. Stick around to find out why UK Kiosks Ltd. is trusted by businesses across the UK for high-quality plastic electrical enclosures built to last.
Why Electric Enclosures Matter More Than You Think
Nearly every business relies on sensitive equipment—whether it’s communication devices, control panels, or power distribution units. And let’s face it, exposure to the elements or physical damage can quickly throw a spanner in the works.
Here’s where electric enclosures step in. They’re designed to:
- Protect internal equipment from water, dust, heat, cold, and impact
- Prevent unauthorised access to sensitive systems
- Enhance safety, reducing the risk of fire or electrical shock
- Extend the lifespan of expensive components
Without proper housing, even the most advanced technology is vulnerable. Whether you’re installing outdoors or in high-traffic areas, the right enclosure is essential.
What to Look for in an Electric Enclosure
Choosing the right enclosure can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many specs and material options. But don’t worry—we’re breaking it down into three must-have features:
1. IP Ratings (Ingress Protection)
The IP rating tells you how resistant an enclosure is to solids (like dust) and liquids (like rain or jet sprays). For most business applications, an IP55 rating or higher is ideal.
- IP55 – Dust tight and protected against water ingress
- IP65 – Even better protection, great for harsh weather
- IP67/68 – Submersible enclosures, great for extreme environments
2. Fire Resistance
Safety first, always. A quality electric enclosure should be made of materials that meet fire resistance standards. GRP enclosures, for example, offer excellent flame retardancy, making them ideal for environments where heat or sparks could pose a risk.
3. Durability & Material Strength
If your enclosure is going outside or into a busy worksite, it needs to withstand bumps, knocks, temperature shifts, and more. That’s where GRP really shines—it won’t rust, corrode, or degrade like metal or wooden enclosures might over time.
GRP vs. Traditional Materials: What’s the Best Choice?
Let’s take a closer look at how Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) stacks up against more traditional materials used in electric enclosures like metal or timber.
Feature | GRP | Metal | Wood |
Weather Resistance | Excellent | Good, but may rust | Poor |
Weight | Lightweight | Heavy | Medium |
Corrosion Resistance | 100% Corrosion-free | Can corrode | Can rot |
Maintenance | Low | Medium | High |
Electrical Insulation | High (non-conductive) | Conductive | Low |
Cost-Effectiveness | Long-term savings | High initial & maintenance cost | Lower upfront, poor lifespan |
Why Businesses Are Making the Switch to GRP
- It’s lightweight yet strong, which makes installation easier and more cost-effective
- It’s resistant to extreme weather and environmental hazards
- It lasts longer with little to no maintenance
- It doesn’t conduct electricity—so it’s safer for electrical components
- It’s more cost-effective in the long run
UK Kiosks’ Range of Plastic Electrical Enclosures: Built for the Real World
At UK Kiosks Ltd., we understand that businesses need solutions that are reliable, safe, and built to handle the real world. Our range of plastic electrical enclosures—crafted from high-quality GRP—are designed with exactly that in mind.
What sets our enclosures apart?
✅ IP65-rated and above for unbeatable protection
✅ Fire-retardant materials that meet UK safety standards
✅ Lightweight but tough, so you save on transport and installation
✅ Customisable sizing and features to fit your unique needs
✅ Designed and manufactured right here in the UK
Whether you’re housing networking gear, electrical junctions, or control systems, our enclosures are the perfect mix of functionality and peace of mind.
Real-World Use Cases
While we’re keeping this industry-neutral, here are a few real-world examples of how our enclosures are being used:
- Data cabinets for rural broadband rollouts
- Power control units for EV charging stations
- Security systems for public infrastructure
- Lighting control for car parks and campuses
Every use case has one thing in common: the need for reliable protection in unpredictable environments.
FAQs About Electric Enclosures
What does an electric enclosure do?
It protects electrical and electronic components from environmental hazards, tampering, and mechanical damage.
What’s the difference between plastic and metal enclosures?
Plastic (especially GRP) enclosures are non-conductive, corrosion-resistant, and lighter, making them safer and easier to maintain than metal.
Why choose UK Kiosks for electric enclosures?
We offer UK-manufactured, high-spec enclosures that meet modern safety standards, with great customer service and custom options.
Can GRP enclosures be used outdoors?
Absolutely. In fact, GRP is one of the best materials for outdoor use because of its resistance to UV, rain, and corrosion.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Smart, Choosing Safe
So, what’s the bottom line? Investing in a high-quality electric enclosure isn’t just about protecting gear—it’s about protecting your business. And when it comes to long-term durability, fire resistance, and reliability in all kinds of environments, GRP-based plastic electrical enclosures are clearly leading the way.
With UK Kiosks Ltd., you’re not just buying a box—you’re investing in safety, quality, and long-term peace of mind.
👉 Ready to upgrade your enclosures?
Explore More:
Want to learn more about GRP and its benefits? Check out this external guide on GRP materials.
Or read about UK regulations for electrical safety.
