NEMA 12 Electrical Enclosures
NEMA 12 electrical enclosures are known as industrial enclosures that are constructed to provide more protection than NEMA 2 standards. NEMA 12 electrical enclosures are dust-tight enclosures and are constructed without punch outs. Bison Profab crafts dependable and premier electrical enclosures crafted from aluminum, stainless steel and carbon steel.
The NEMA 12 enclosure is used in applications that require protection from the ingress of dust, lint, fibers or oil. These enclosures generally protect manufacturing control or automation equipment, for packaging, or material handling applications.
NEMA 12 Dust-Tight Electrical Enclosure Specifications
Electrical enclosures with dust-tight designs are assigned the NEMA 12 rating. These sturdy enclosures protect against:
- Dust
- Lint
- Fibers
- Dirt
- Dripping water and oils
- Non-corrosive liquids
NEMA 12 enclosures are free of any punch-outs, which are typically used for cables and other connectors. These electrical enclosures are designed for indoor use and provide excellent protection against the ingress of settling dust and dirt.
Why Should Your Electrical Enclosure Stay Dust-Free?
The NEMA rating has become synonymous with dust protection. NEMA 12’s dust-tight capabilities can protect your sensitive electronic equipment from harm. When exposed to dust, your electronics can:
- Malfunction
- Overheat
- Corrode
- Electrocute users
- Short circuit
- Create insulation issues
Indoor facilities with exceptionally high dust levels such manufacturing buildings must be extremely cautious with their sensitive electrical components. Choosing the right dust-tight enclosure can make the difference between a productive facility and a hazardous one.
Choose the Metal for Your NEMA 12 Enclosure
While some companies may offer the option to order your NEMA 12 enclosure in polycarbonate or ABS plastic, Bison Profab only recommends reliable metal options. Plastic isn’t as dependable or sturdy as our high-quality metal offerings.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steelis a high-end choice that offers exceptional resistance to corrosion. Crafted from your chosen type and gauge of stainless steel, Bison produces your enclosure to meet the requirements for a NEMA 12 rating. Your completed enclosure provides outstanding corrosion resistance, superior strength, excellent heat tolerance and consistent long-term value.
Aluminum
Aluminum is inherently resistant to rust and other forms of corrosion. It is also lightweight, which makes it simple to install on equipment. Electrical enclosures that must excel in harsh, high heat, high wear environments need a material such as aluminum alloys with strength and durability.
Carbon Steel
Steel provides heavy-duty protection for enclosures at risk of any impacts. NEMA 12 enclosures are available in cold rolled carbon steel, which is produced to meet requirements for controlled surface texture, flatness limitations and close thickness or temper requirements. Steel enclosures can be made corrosion resistant with a coated finish.
Custom NEMA 12 Accessories
- Thermostats
- Heaters
- A/C units with NEMA 12 ratings
- Viewing windows
- Casters
- Leveling feet
- Fuse blocks
- Power panels
- Lights
- Switches
Not sure which NEMA enclosure to choose? Expert guidance is available.
Comparing NEMA 12 Enclosures with Other NEMA Options
NEMA 12 enclosures have similar features to NEMA 2, except they are considered to provide more protection.
Similarly, to the NEMA 12 rating, NEMA 13 enclosures are designed for indoor industrial applications. However, these enclosures are also able to protect against water wash downs.
Optimize Your Project with Reliable NEMA 12 Enclosures
Every steel, stainless steel or aluminum NEMA 12 enclosure is carefully prepared to be installation-ready, eliminating costly delays and hassles at the job site.
Not sure which NEMA enclosure to choose? Expert guidance is available.
NEMA 12 Enclosures Finish Options


