Nonmetalic Enclosures and Renewable Generation

Why Choose Non-Metallic Enclosures for Solar Energy Applications? 

As the world becomes more sustainable and electrified, renewable energy is a critical piece of decarbonization efforts around the globe. Solar energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy generation methods and individuals, companies and countries are investing in this technology to offset greenhouse gas emissions. Solar installations by American companies have doubled since 2019. 

Solar energy generation requires a vast array of equipment which needs to be protected from environmental threats. Enclosures are a critical piece of the puzzle, providing protection from environmental threats and helping engineers manage heat in installations. For solar energy applications, non-metallic enclosures can be a strong choice. Here’s why: 

1. Durability and lifespan 

Solar energy installations are often placed in demanding environments. Equipment can be exposed to high heat from the sun (high solar gain), high speed winds, wind-blown sand and other environmental factors that make protecting the sensitive equipment used to power solar energy generation challenging. Non-metallic enclosures are extremely durable and hold up well under stress. There are multiple materials to choose from within nonmetallics to get the best possible protection for specific environmental needs. nVent non-metallic enclosures also go through impact testing to make sure they can hold up under stress. High quality non-metallic enclosures can also last a long time, making solar installations more sustainable since the enclosures do not need to be frequently replaced.  

2. Ease of transportation and installation 

Non-metallic enclosures are lighter and easier to transport, as well as easier to modify than large metal enclosures. When installers need to travel to more remote locations to build solar installations, moving and modifying stainless steel enclosures can be a challenge. Ease of transport and installation also creates safer environments for installers.  

nVent Insights: Nonmetallic Enclosures →

3.  Heat management 

For solar energy applications in hot, sunny environments, it is important to keep electronics at appropriate operating temperatures. Engineers can deploy cooling solutions for equipment, but minimizing heat coming into the system is also important. Because non-metallic have lower thermal conductivity than raw metal, these enclosures do not get as hot when the sun is shining on them. On the other hand, because of its lower thermal conductivity, nonmetallic enclosures can also trap heat from equipment inside the enclosures. Overheating can dramatically cut the lifespan of electronics. nVent has a calculator tool that engineers can use to make sure they are keeping their systems running at appropriate operating temperatures. 

Learn more about nVent nonmetallic enclosures solutions