Are Polycarbonate Enclosures Waterproof?

In current electrical and electronic installations, enclosures are very important in holding internal parts in various potential dangers to such elements as dust, impacts, UV radiations, and most importantly moisture and water ingress.

Are Polycarbonate Enclosures are water proof

Polycarbonate is one of the recommended materials to be used in making enclosures especially because of its excellent mechanical and other environmental protection features.

Nevertheless, the most common issue people would like to voice in connection to this problem concerns the following question:

Are polycarbonate enclosures water proof?

Now, let us take a closer look into why polycarbonate enclosures are dependable in the wet scenarios, and indeed, they are waterproof.

What Does "Waterproof" Really Mean?

Without prior discussion on what waterproof means in the industrial context of it all, we must first evaluate polycarbonate enclosures. The term waterproof is typically characterized by Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, and, in specific, the second digit:

The ratings denote the capability of an enclosure in keeping water out.

Are Polycarbonate Enclosures Actually Waterproof?

Short Answer:

Well, yes it is possible to have a waterproof polycarbonate enclosure but it depends upon the design and IP rating.

Detailed Answer:

Polycarbonate as a material is also a non-porous thermoplastic material, which means it does not allow the water to percolate through. However, sealing is not all about the material of the enclosure, it is also based on the sealing system, gasket design, fastening mechanism and precision of the manufacturing material.

Majority of good quality polycarbonate enclosures are provided with gaskets injection molded into them and are IP-classified (usually between IP65 and IP68). This implies that they will resist rain, splash, water jets and even short term or even long immersion depending on the rating.

Where Are Waterproof Polycarbonate Enclosures Used?

Waterproof polycarbonate enclosures find very common application outdoors and in harsh surroundings as follows:

Benefits of Waterproof Polycarbonate Enclosures

Feature Benefit
IP65-IP68 RatedExcellent protection against water ingress
UV-ResistantSuitable for outdoor environments
Lightweight but StrongEasy to install and durable
Rust-FreeWill not corrode like metal
Transparent OptionEasier to inspect internal components
AffordableCost-effective compared to stainless steel

FAQs:

No. Although the polycarbonate material is resistant to water, not every enclosure made out of polycarbonate material is waterproof. Before you use it in water prone areas, you have to ensure that it is IP rated.
Sure, when they are IP67 or IP68. These are tested to be submerged. Enclosures with lower ratings (such as IP65/IP66) are not submersible, but just subjected to rain or splashing.
Make sure:
  • Gasket is still intact and is sealed well
  • A tight screw down is placed upon the lid
  • There are no holes or fitting which are not sealed (IP-rated cable glands)
The enclosures made of polycarbonates are just as waterproof, as many metal ones, or even more so, in case the rust is a possibility. They are also denser to corrosion by chemicals.
Yes. A majority of the industrial grade polycarbonate enclosures are UV stabilized and have a 40C to 120C temperature range, which makes them suit best in the sunlight or high-temperature applications.

Conclusion

Well designed and high IP rated polycarbonate enclosures will definitely have waterproof capabilities. They are light weight, corrosion free and economical means of application in areas where moisture or direct involvement with water is a factor. If you are putting up a solar PV system, or even outdoor controls, it is beneficial that you use polycarbonate enclosures all to have your components inside safe against water damages.