Wall Mount vs Floor Standing Enclosure: How to Choose
Choosing between a wall mount vs floor standing enclosure is one of the first decisions in any control panel project. Both protect your drives, PLCs and wiring, but they suit different panel sizes and locations. In this guide, we explain the differences and help you pick the right one.
What Is a Wall Mount Enclosure?
A wall mount enclosure is fixed on a wall or machine frame. It suits small to medium panels, so it is common near machines and in compact plants. Because it saves floor space, it works well where room is limited.
For example, nVent Hoffman offers:
- MAS series (mild steel, single door): up to 1400 mm high and 800 mm wide, with IP66 protection.
- MADS series (mild steel, double door): for larger wall mount panels, with IP55 protection.
- ASR series (stainless steel SS304, single door): IP66 protection for harsh environments
What Is a Floor Standing Enclosure?
A floor standing enclosure stands on the floor and holds large panels. It gives more space inside, so it suits MCC panels, multi-drive panels and control rooms. In addition, the extra depth makes wiring and cooling easier.
Common options include:
- MCS and MCD series (mild steel, single and double door): heights of 1800, 2000 and 2200 mm, with IP55 protection.
- EKSS and EKDS series (stainless steel SS304): for demanding or outdoor applications.
- BCH mild steel floor standing enclosures: available in IP65 and IP66, with optional plinth and side covers.
Mild Steel vs Stainless Steel
Material matters as much as the mounting type. Mild steel is strong and cost-effective, so it suits normal indoor industrial areas. However, stainless steel (SS304) resists corrosion, which makes it a better choice for food and beverage, pharma and marine use.
What Do IP55 and IP66 Mean?
The IP rating shows how well an enclosure resists dust and water. IP55 protects against dust and water jets, so it suits indoor industrial areas. IP66 goes further and is made for harsh and wet environments. If you are unsure, read our guide to IP, NEMA, CE and UL ratings.
How to Choose the Right Enclosure
Check these points before you buy:
- Panel size: count your components and leave space for wiring and heat.
- Location: wall space is limited, whereas floor space allows larger panels.
- Environment: dust, water and chemicals decide the IP rating and material.
- Access: double doors help when you need easy access to large panels.
- Budget: mild steel costs less, but stainless steel lasts longer in harsh areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a wall mount enclosure hold a VFD?
Yes. Small and medium VFDs are often installed in wall mount enclosures. Make sure the size allows enough airflow for cooling.
Is IP66 always better than IP55?
IP66 gives stronger water protection. However, IP55 is enough for most indoor industrial areas, so choose based on your environment.
Where can I buy nVent Hoffman enclosures in Greater Noida?
United Control Engineers supplies nVent Hoffman enclosures in wall mount and floor standing options. Send us your size and IP requirement for a quote.
Not sure which enclosure suits your panel? New to enclosures? Read what is an enclosure first.