An electrical enclosure is meant to house and protect electrical components. Electrical enclosure handles ensure these boxes can easy and securely open or close easily. Because different handles are designed for specific applications, choosing the right type is critical. Here is an overview of the types of electrical handles and their use.
Electrical Enclosure Handles
Electrical enclosure handles are enclosure components that enable technicians to open and close the box quickly, easily, and safely. Enclosure handles also protect the electrical components inside the enclosure from damage that could be caused by opening or closing the box incorrectly.
There are many different types of electrical enclosure handles. Each handle will be designed to offer a specific level of convenience. Made from different materials, enclosure box handles also differ in terms of strength and durability.
When purchasing an electrical enclosure, it is important to select a handle that meets the specific needs of your application. To help you choose the right handle for your enclosure, here is an overview of the most common types of electrical enclosure door handles and their use.
Source: https://www.delvallebox.com/en/electrical-enclosures-accessories
Types of Electrical Enclosure Handles
The different types of electrical enclosure handles mainly differ in the way they are constructed. They also differ in the types of materials used to make them. We will start by discussing the different designs of the handles, and then delve into the materials used to make them.
Source: https://www.alibaba.com/
1. T Electrical Enclosure Handles
The T-handle is one of the most popular designs of enclosure door handles. It gets its name from the “T” shape of the handle when it is viewed from the side. The T-handle is easy to grip and provides a good amount of leverage, making it ideal for heavy-duty and frequent-use applications.
The T-handle opens and closes with a quick quarter turn. This makes it easy to open the electrical enclosure box, even when wearing gloves. They are also commonly surface-mounted, although flush-mounted types are also available.
2. L Electrical Enclosure Handles
L-handles are another popular design of electrical enclosure handles. Like the T-handle, L-handles are easy to grip and provide good leverage. The main difference between the two designs is that L-handles feature a straight, vertical shaft that protrudes from the side of the electrical enclosure.
This design provides a more ergonomic grip than the T-handle and is often used in applications where space is limited. L-handles are also available in both surface-mount and flush-mount designs. This makes them one of the most versatile types of electrical enclosure handles on the market.
3. P Electrical Enclosure Handles
Also called pull handles, P-handles are designed for use in applications where a smooth, easy-to-grip surface is required. These handles are often used in electronic enclosures, as they provide a good grip for opening and closing the door without causing component or external enclosure damage.
P-handles open by pulling, and the reason for this is that they are often used in conjunction with key locks. This provides a high level of security, as the handle cannot be opened without a key. P-handles are also available in both surface-mount and flush-mount designs.
Materials for Electrical Enclosure Handles
Electrical enclosure handles can be made from different materials, each with its own unique properties. The most common materials used to make electrical enclosure handles are metal and plastic. Let’s take a closer look at each material.
Metal Electrical Enclosure Handles
Metal electrical enclosure handles are the strongest and most durable type of handle on the market. They are often used in heavy-duty and industrial applications where strength and durability are required.
The most common type of metal used to make electrical enclosure handles is stainless steel. This is because stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and can withstand harsh environments. Aluminum is another popular choice, as it is lighter than stainless steel but still provides good strength and durability.
Source: https://www.sourcingallies.com/
Plastic Electrical Enclosure Handles
Plastic electrical enclosure handles are a good choice for light-duty applications where strength and durability are not as important. They are often used in consumer electronics, as they are easy to grip and provide a good level of protection for the components inside the enclosure.
The most common type of plastic used to make electrical enclosure handles is polycarbonate. This material is shatter-resistant and has good impact resistance. ABS plastic is another popular choice, as it is lightweight and has good resistance to chemicals and UV light.
When choosing an electrical enclosure with handles, it is important to consider the material that the handle is made from. This will ensure that the handle is suitable for the intended application.
Enclosure Handle Locking Mechanisms
Besides the material that the handle is made from, another important consideration is the type of locking mechanism that is used. The most common types of locking mechanisms are key locks and padlock hasps.
Source: https://www.cyber-lock.com/electrical-panel-locks/
Key Lock Electrical Enclosure Handles
Key lock enclosure handles are the most secure type of handle on the market. They feature a keyed cylinder that can be opened with a key. This provides a high level of security, as the handle cannot be opened without a key.
Source: https://www.cyber-lock.com/electrical-panel-locks/
Padlock Electrical Enclosure Handles
Padlock hasp electrical enclosure handles are also very secure. They feature a hasp that can be locked with a padlock. This prevents the handle from being opened without the padlock key.
Mounting Options for Electrical Enclosure Handles
Electrical enclosure handles are available in both surface-mount and flush-mount designs. Each mounting method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Surface-Mount Electrical Enclosure Handles
Surface mount door handles are the most common type of handle on the market. They are easy to install and can be mounted on any flat surface. You only need to drill a few holes in the enclosure for the screws.
The main advantage of surface-mount electrical enclosure handles is that they are easy to install. The main disadvantage is that they are not as secure as flush-mount handles, as they can be pried off with a screwdriver.
Flush-Mount Electrical Enclosure Handles
Flush-mounted enclosure handles are more secure than surface-mount handles, as they cannot be pried off with a screwdriver. They are also more difficult to install, as you need to cut an opening in the enclosure for the handle.
The main advantage of flush-mounted handles is that they are more secure. Enclosures with handles of this type, therefore, provide better protection than surface mounted types. Their main disadvantage is that they are more difficult to install.
Conclusion
Electrical enclosure handles are available in a wide range of materials, styles, and locking mechanisms. When choosing an electrical enclosure handle, we suggest that you consider your application needs, the level of security and convenience needed, and the installation method. With the right handle, you can provide easy access to your electrical enclosure while ensuring that it is secure.
