Everything You Need to Know About Polycarbonate Enclosures: The Clear Choice for Electrical Housing

The enclosures made of polycarbonate are becoming a preferred option for industries looking for economical, durable, and multifunctional housing for electrical housing. These enclosures are ideal for industrial automation, telecommunications, and outdoor uses, as they perform exceptionally well in harsh conditions. Polycarbonate enclosures are different from fiberglass and metal as they are lightweight and have a unique combination of UV or impact resistance, which makes them perfect for protecting delicate electronics and components. This article will discuss why polycarbonate enclosures are the most suitable for electric housing, their main benefits and practical uses, how they differ from other materials, and, most importantly, why these enclosures are a worthwhile investment for different requirements. The aim of reading the article is to understand the full scope of these enclosures.

What Are Polycarbonate Enclosures and Why Are They Popular?

Polycarbonate enclosures are housing used to enclose electric systems made using polycarbonate material, which is an excellent thermoplastic. They are preferred because of their lightweight construction, good resistance to impact, and tolerance to high temperatures. Such enclosures are perfect for protecting sensitive parts and electrical systems both outdoors and indoors. They also have industrial, commercial, and residential uses because they can withstand ultraviolet rays, moisture, and UV rays. Other uses include ease in performing inspections of components, enabling further efficiency for residents.

Understanding the Basics of Polycarbonate Enclosure

These items are protective enclosures made out of polycarbonate plastic, which is known for its durability and impact resistance. Their use is the most common in places which need reliable protection such as extreme temperatures or moisture and UV exposure. Furthermore, these enclosures are suitable for many applications as they are very strong yet lightweight. Since these structures are transparent, components can be visually inspected without having to disassemble them, making maintenance and monitoring processes much faster.

Advantages of Using Non-metallic Enclosures

Corrosion Resistance

• The non-metallic enclosures do not rust or corrode which makes them ideal for outdoor use or places with extreme moisture or salty air such as costal regions. This factor offers longer life and lower maintenance than metals.

Lightweight Construction

• Their weight is significantly lesser than metal enclosures which increases the cost efficience of transporting and installing them. Their lightweight nature also increases the ease of handling which streamlines the setup and deployment processes.

Electrical Insulation

• Non-metallic enclosures also provide electrical insulation and thereby greatly reducing the chances of electrical shocks and short circuits. This proves beneficial when dealing with sensitive electrical components which need to be deployed in non-industrial or residential settings.

Impact Resistance

• Non-metallic enclosures provide great resistance to physical impacts due to the robust materials they are constructed from. This ensures the protection of internal components which is very important for demanding applications.

UV and Weather Resistance

• Several non-metallic combines are made to endure long-term exposure to UV light along with harsh temperatures. These features unlock the possibility of using them outdoors where there are extreme weather conditions for a long time.

Chemical Resistance 

• Due to the ability to withstand various chemicals and pollutants, these enclosures prove useful in chemical manufacturing, waste water treatment and food processing industries, where having corrosive resistant features is very crucial.

Cost-Effectiveness

• Because of their low maintenance costs and great durability, non-metallic enclosures can be more economical compared to metal alternatives both in the long and short run. This makes them a cost-effective solution that does not compromise value.

Customizable Designs

• Non-metallic materials can be easily formed to have different sizes and shapes. This allows for greater design flexibility which helps manufacturers create enclosures to best suit particular application requirements.

Thermal Insulation

• Such enclosures aid in improving thermal insulation to avoid overheating of housed components. Their thermal properties help to maintain stable operating conditions for sensitive equipment.

Transparency Options

• The option of non-metallic transparent enclosures makes it very easy to view internal components without removing them, which makes the inspection and monitoring processes much easier and more efficient during maintenance.

With non-metallic enclosures being non-restrictive across many industries, they are therefore able to meet functional and economical needs simultaneously with unrivaled efficiency.

Common Applications for Polycarbonate Enclosures

The use of polycarbonate enclosures is common among many industries today because of their strength, lightweight, and excellent resistance to environmental factors including UV exposure, temperature variation, and moisture. Below are some of the most common applications along with detailed insights into their functionality: The use case varies from simple electronic devices to telecommunication hubs. Each use case has its own unique requirements that these enclosures fulfill.

Electronics and Electrical

• Polycarbonate enclosures serve as protective covers for circuit breakers, power distribution units, broadband terminal blocks, and other delicate electric or electronic components. Their use makes enclosure components insulation safe as well as non-energetic. Electric components such as power-related devices work better when polycarbonate materials are integrated since their structural strength averts corrosion, water damage (when the enclosure is IP rated), and impact damage to the enclosed components making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor electrical works.

Telecom

• Polycarbonate enclosures are used in telecommunication sector to cover fiber optic cables, communication modules and even network hubs. Theseenclosures prevent environmental factors to affect the internal parts while allowing easy access for repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the lightweight structure allows for hassle-free mounting in hard to reach or high places.

Industrial Automation

• The automation industry has a unique set of requirements when it comes to industrial applications, especially when it comes to enclosures withstanding any environmental conditions. Polycarbonate enclosures are handy for protecting control systems, PLCs and sensors used in control and production plants. Technicians are also able to see system indicators without opening the enclosure because of its transparency feature.

Renewable Energy Systems

• Polycarbonate enclosures for solar and wind energy systems are highly used in the renewable energy sector because they’re essential in protecting key components such as inverters, charge controllers and battery management systems. These polycarbonate enclosures, because of their UV stability and resistance to extreme weather, allow for the long term reliability of installations in harsh environments.

Medical Equipment

• In the healthcare industry, polycarbonate enclosures are fundamental in protecting diagnostic devices and laboratory equipment. Their exceptional fit for medical environments where precision and hygiene are important stems from their surfaces being easy to clean, being chemical resistant and meeting many safety requirements.

Transportation

• Electronics critical to the operation of vehicles, railway systems and public transport are housed in polycarbonate enclosures, which is a common practice in the transportation sector. Supplying outstanding protection against impact and flame while being lightweight offers enhanced safety and efficiency for these popular applications.

Market and Trends Data 

Per recent industry studies, growth is expected in the use of polycarbonate enclosures globally due to increased requirements in the renewable energy and telecommunications sectors. Reports suggest a CAGR of more than five percent through the next decade, indicating greater use of the material over time. Furthermore, there is continual improvement in the design and manufacture of polycarbonate enclosures towards more specific needs, such as stronger impact resistance and better environmental sealing.

Through providing a dependable and versatile solution to various sectors, polycarbonate enclosures set new standards of durability, functionality, and economical modern applications.

How to Choose the Right Polycarbonate Enclosure?

Factors to Consider: Size and Mounting Options

When choosing a polycarbonate enclosure, size and mounting options are crucial aspects to consider. Check whether the enclosure dimensions meet the application’s space requirements together with the internal components while maintaining a small footprint. Also, consider the available mounting options, such as wall-mounted, pole-mounted, or handheld designs, for compatibility with the installation environment. These factors should be considered in order to ensure that ease of installation and functionality is achieved.

Understanding Ratings: NEMA 4X and IP65

NEMA 4X and IP65 are two important standards in the specification of the protective characteristics of the enclosure for electrical and electronic equipment. The performance of these parameters is fundamental for determining the enclosure’s operational reliability and environment while protecting the delicate components within the assembly.

NEMA 4X Rating 

The NEMA 4X rating specification of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) sets the enclosure protection level against environmental factors to high. This means it aims to combat dust, water, and corrosion. A NEMA 4X enclosure resists access to dust, water splashing, water hurled by hoses, ice, and chemical or salt spray corrosion. These types of enclosures are acceptable for an industrial environment, outdoors, or in regions where conditions are severe, such as chemicals in coastal and processing plants.

IP65 Rating

An enclosure’s degree of protection against encroachment by solid items and liquids is referred to as the IP65 rating. This enclosure protection rating’s “6” indicates complete dust protection, while the “5” signifies protection against water jets from all directions. Enclosures rated IP65 are commonly utilized in regions prone to outdoor installations or frequent water contact, like agricultural, telecommunications, or transportation industries. The International Electrotechnical Commission assigned these ratings in their 60529 standard.

Comparing NEMA 4X and IP65

Both ratings NEMA 4X and IP65 bear strong defenses against ingress of foreign bodies, with the former allowing use in more chemically aggressive spaces due to its additional corrosion protection. On the contrary, IP65 does not include built-in corrosion protection and mainly deals with ingress of water and dust. The specific environmental conditions of the application should be examined in order to decide which rating is more suitable.

NEMA 4X and IP65 enclosures both have their sets of strengths and weaknesses, which, when correctly identified, aid organizations in ensuring the protection of critical equipment from external environment hazards while also dealing with reliability, safety, and compliance issues IP65 rating.

Selecting Between Clear and Opaque Covers

Both clear and opaque covers have their unique benefits depending on the use of the cover. Opaque covers block most UV radiation which results in prolonged lifespan of the cover in unfavorable situations. Clear covers, on the other hand, allow ease of visual inspection of internal parts and components, which is ideal in situations that require regular checks without taking out the enclosure cover. When choosing either of the two, think about the visibility requirement, environmental factors, and durability needed for the application.

How Do NEMA 4X Polycarbonate Enclosures Differ from Other Materials?

Comparing Fiberglass vs. Polycarbonate

Both fiberglass and polycarbonate are common construction materials for NEMA 4X enclosures. Each of them has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on the intended purpose. Polycarbonate fiberglass is highly impact-resistant and lightweight. It is preferred in applications where visibility or transparency is required since polycarbonate can have clear or translucent covers. Fiberglass is considered highly strong and durable. It resists a wide range of chemicals which makes it useful in industrial settings with corrosive materials. Fiberglass also has superior strength and can endure hight temps along with UV exposure. Fiberglass, however, becomes brittle during harsh conditions over time, which makes it vulnerable.

While polycarbonate structures are more cost-effective, they do tend to undergo yellowing or minor off-color changes during prolonged exposure to UV light. The attained cover, however, does make polycarbonate structures more weather-resistant. One of the biggest pros that polycarbonate has over fiberglass is modification since it has a higher ductility and can be molded into more complex shapes with less effort and heat.

Keep in mind workplace conditions when distinguishing between these materials. For instance, fiberglass is preferable in highly corrosive or elevated temperature environments polycarbonate, on the other hand, is perfect for visibility, lower weight, or cost efficient applications. Both materials satisfy NEMA 4X requirements which means they offer strong insulation from dust, water, and extreme weather conditions.

Exploring the Importance of UV Resistance in Enclosures

UV resistance remains a determinant for employing an enclosure for outdoor purposes. As mentioned earlier, parts that enclose structures need to resist exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, otherwise, exposure could render the material discolored, brittle and weaken it. Enclosures that are resistant to UV include those that can withstand great amounts of radiation and cope with them, which is beneficial in maintaining quality over time. These include modern materials such as fiberglass and UV-stabilized polycarbonate, which do not deteriorate when exposed to sunlight. The enclosure’s ability to protect internal components that are sensitive prolongs the need for maintenance over time.

Why Opt for Lightweight and Durable Solutions?

The lightweight and durable solutions provided are beneficial in multiple sectors, especially those that involve mobility, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency. The details below further highlight the data:

Improved Portability

• Lightweight materials lessen weight which further makes the equipment or enclosure easy to transport and install. For example, replacing steel with aluminum or composite materials improves weight handling by almost 50%, reducing labor efforts and improving handling.

Improved Energy Efficiency

• The components under transport become feasible with an even lesser cost: energy. For example, fueling savings of 6-8% is achievable through lightweight components in vehicles for every 10% reduction in total weight.

Reduced Wear and Tear

• Higher durability materials such as reinforced Polycarbonate or fiberglass have greater impact resistance and withstand harsh environmental conditions which further provide and lessen the maintenance needs along with higher equipment life. Further these benefits reduce long-term operational expenses.

Corrosion Resistance

• Unlike traditional metals, modern lightweight materials are often corrosion-resistant. Fiberglass reinforced plastics are some of the composites that show an exceptionally high performance in corrosive environments making them ideal for outdoor or industrial usage.

Cost-Effectiveness

• In the case of a material’s initial cost, a cost-effective, lightweight and durable solution would generally reduce logistical and maintenance costs. Lightweight structures lower transportation expenses, and the durability of these structures decreases the frequency of repairs and replacements.

Sustainability Contributions

• Lightweight materials such as composites and thermoplastics can be recycled, thereby contributing to the reduction of environmental impacts. These materials also help to meet sustainability targets as they increase energy efficiency and decrease material waste.

The use of lightweight durable solutions by an organization leads to more efficient, cost-effective, and better-performing structures while reducing the limitations on strength and rigidity, as well as reliability.

Can Polycarbonate Enclosures Be Used for Outdoor Applications?

Ensuring Weatherproof and Waterproof Features

Custom-built to endure harsh weather conditions, polycarbonate enclosures are useful in multiple contexts. These enclosures are watertight and weatherproof due to the advanced levels of materials engineering that go into their construction. The water absorption rate of polycarbonate is low, at only 0.15% to 0.35%, meaning the material can withstand long-term exposure to moisture without becoming damaged.

Moreover, polycarbonate enclosures have industry standard ratings IP65, IP66, or IP67, which monitor the degree of dust ingress and water penetration. An enclosure with an IP66 rating, for example, can endure heavy rain and powerful water jets with IP66 rated enclosures. Protecting sensitive internal components, such as electronic circuits or sensors, becomes more attainable, especially in harsh outdoor or industrial settings.

The material’s innate UV resistance further expands the durability of these enclosures by preventing prolonged sunlight from degrading or discoloring the material. Testing has shown that polycarbonate enclosures are reliable in their functional performance during severe weather conditions, enduring ultraviolet radiation and temperatures of -40°F to 250°F. Together, these returns make polycarbonate enclosures a favored choice for outdoor use where operational performance and low maintenance are necessities.

Maintaining Longevity in Varied Outdoor Conditions

When using outdoor equipment, both material and procedural-specific maintenance plans should be implemented per the working set to ensure performance efficiency and longevity. The research observes that polycarbonate enclosures undergo structural improvement when their accumulated soil, debris, and environmental contaminants are removed through their periodic non-abrasive cleaner. Polycarbonate enclosure cleaning aids in preserving structural integrity. Effective sealing methods to guard against moisture ingress include silicone gaskets, which can protect internal parts from getting damaged and failing.

Further studies regarding polycarbonate materials have shown that these structures demonstrate high thermal stability as they are able to withstand a temperature fluctuation of -40F  to 250F without undergoing cracking or warping, which helps them endure extreme seasonal changes. For areas that experience a lot of chemical exposure, specialized protective coatings can be applied to improve resistance to corrosive materials which enhances the lifespan of the enclosures.

Periodic inspection protocols are also useful as they ensure that seals, locks, and fasteners are functional and intact against constant environmental stress. Coupling these measures with proactive maintenance measures and the inherent durability of polycarbonate helps to reduce operational costs in the long term while maximizing the performance and reliability of the enclosures in diverse outdoor conditions.

What Are the Installation Options for Polycarbonate Enclosures?

An Overview of Wall Mounting Techniques

Mounting polycarbonate wall enclosures incorporates several methods to ensure sturdy installation for diverse applications and environmental conditions. One strategy commonly used is the direct mounting method, where enclosures are secured with screws or bolts through drilled mounting holes. This method is most effective for enclosures featuring built-in flanges or mounting brackets and permanently fastened to flat surfaces.

In industrial environments, enhanced vibration resistance is often required, with damping vibration mounting kits providing an option. Often rubber grommets or isolators that reduce stress with vibrations are incorporated, absorbing experienced vibrations and reducing stress on the enclosure structure. Furthermore, mounted units have been shown to experience up to 40% increased lifespan with the implementation of vibration protection.

Another essential possibility of sophisticated mounting systems is horizontal and vertical adjustment capabilities. Rotation of brackets in any direction is helpful when meeting space limitations or specific alignment of equipment. Loads from 50 to 200 pounds can often be supported, depending on the material and design of the adjustable bracket.

For applications exposed to high humidity or corrosive conditions, the use of corrosion-resistant mounting hardware such as stainless steel or polymer-coated components becomes necessary. Withstanding these conditions ensures that the enclosure is intact and safe with no corrosion over time.

Finally, quick-release mounting designs are becoming more common for applications where frequent access to the enclosure for maintenance or system upgrades is required. These systems typically use spring-loaded or sliding track mechanisms to mount the enclosure which makes it easy to remove the enclosure while still providing firm support when attached.

Polycarbonate enclosures can be efficiently wall mounted for a diverse range of professional and technical applications by selecting the correct mounting technique and materials. This improves not only the overall functionality of the polycarbonate enclosures, but also increases safety and efficiency during operation in the long run.

Using Internal Mounting Plates and Accessories

Internal mounting plates assist in the arrangement and support of various parts within polycarbonate enclosures. These mounted devices include circuit boards, power supplies, or terminal blocks that utilize the internal area effectively. Internal organization can be enhanced even more with the addition of external accessories like cable and DIN rails that improve maintenance accessibility and reduce clutter. Careful selection of plates made from structural grade, non-conductive materials is important as these do not interfere with or damage electronic components. Adequate use of these internal accessories improves the internal organization of the system and addresses safety aspects during operations.

Tips for Secure Latching and Hinging Mechanisms

The structural integrity and safeguarding provided by the polycarbonate enclosures are reliant upon having secure latches and hinges. In order to achieve this, it is important to use quality latches and hinges fabricated from corrosion resistant materials, such as stainless steel or reinforced nylon. These materials can endure harsh commentary conditions as well as extensive use over time.

While installing the latches, ensure it is evenly aligned to mitigate stress on the enclosure while guaranteeing a dependable seal. For enclosures that require enhanced sealing capabilities, it is wise to use a compression latch with a higher IP rating. These latches maintain a higher level of uniform pressure throughout the gasket which reduces the risk of water and dust ingress while allowing the internal components to function properly.

Support for the weight of the door along with the frequency of usage needs to be factored in when designing the hinge mechanism. When adequately reinforced, external hinges are ideal for enclosures that need to be opened frequently for inspection or maintenance. To minimize slamming, soft-close hinges may also be used which increases the durability of the enclosure door.

As for the quantitative side of reliability, laboratory tests on hinges and latches frequently cite the number of cycles as their durability metric; top-tier models can withstand 15,000 to 20,000 openings and closings while still functioning properly. Furthermore, field studies validate that well-placed latches, which are usually placed at regular intervals, improve the mechanical strength and compression of gaskets while also aiding in the equal distribution of load.

Routine checks allow for the detection of any deterioration or misalignment that needs to be rectified early on, thus helping to prevent dysfunction. With the implementation of strong materials and strategic designs alongside frequent inspections, the polycarbonate enclosures’ reliability and lifespan can be significantly enhanced by the latching and hinging mechanisms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: With regard to electrical housing, what are the benefits of using polycarbonate enclosures?

A: Polycarbonate enclosures offer many advantages for electrical housing. Their impact resistance is high, and they have exceptional protection from UV rays, making them suitable for use indoors and outdoors. These enclosures are also lightweight, strong, chemical resistant, and provide good electrical insulations. Furthermore, polycarbonate covers intended for visual inspection of components can be installed without the need to open the box.

Q: What does a NEMA 4X enclosure refer to, and what is its connection to polycarbonate boxes?

A: NEMA 4X enclosures are given by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association to an enclosure for its protection against windblown dust, rain, splashing hose-directed water, and corrosion. A lot of polycarbonate enclosures also meet or exceed NEMA 4X criteria, so they are applicable for harsh settings. Some of these polycarbonate boxes are NEMA 4X and IP65 rated, which means that they highly protect electronic and electrical components.

Q: Are polycarbonate enclosures appropriate for use as electrical junction boxes?

A: Certainly, polycarbonates are superb electrical junction boxes of choice. Their insulation and durability properties are exceptional which makes them suitable for housing the components and connections of electricity, and a lot of them have revolving and clear covers for easy inspection. Various manufacturers such as Polycase have polycarbonate junction boxes designed for all sorts of electrical uses, including ones with clear covers.

Q: What sizes do polycarbonate project boxes have?

A: Polycarbonate project boxes are available in many dimensions to suit different uses. Some of the most popular sizes are 4 x 6, 6 x 10, 10 x 12, and 12 x 14 inches (W x L). However, manufacturers like Polycase offer customizable options, allowing you to choose the exact dimensions that suit your project needs. Always check the product specifications or contact the manufacturer to determine the availability of a specific size.

Q: Are polycarbonate enclosures suitable for Wi-Fi and RF applications?

A: Polycarbonate enclosures will work for Wi-Fi and RF applications. They make an excellent choice for the housing of Wi-Fi routers, antennas, and other RF equipment due to low signal attenuation. There are some manufacturers that provide specific Wi-Fi enclosures that are designed to protect wireless devices while allowing signals to interfere as little as possible.

Q: Can vents or custom cutouts be made for polycarbonate enclosures?

A: It is true that polycarbonate enclosures can be altered with custom cutouts or vents. Numerous manufacturers provide customization options where you can request vents for temperature regulation, cable glands for tidying wires, and cutouts for controls and displays. Some companies, such as Polycase, offer users the ability to design custom modifications to the company’s enclosures over the Internet.

Q: What different locking mechanisms does the enclosure come with?

A: Polycarbonate enclosures are versatile and can meet the required security stipulations by integrating various locking mechanisms. Some of these options are key locks, quarter-turn latches, stainless steel latches, and even integrated hinge latches. The level of security and the need for access to the contents will dictate what type of locking mechanism to use.

Q: Is it true that polycarbonate enclosures are UL-listed?

A: Yes, most polycarbonate enclosures are UL-listed, meaning they pass the safety regulations set by the Underwriters Laboratory. The UL listing means that listed enclosures underwent testing for safety in relevant applications during manufacturing. When purchasing an enclosure, look out for the UL mark or contact the manufacturer regarding the specific model for the UL-listed status.

Q: Are polycarbonate enclosures suitable for outdoor use?

A: Yes, they are. Polycarbonate enclosures are recommended for outdoor use because of their good weatherproofing capabilities. Many of them are rated at IP66 or higher which means they are dust-tight and can withstand powerful water jets. Their resistance against ultraviolet rays prevents yellowing and degradation, while their impact resistance withstands physical damage. When picking an outdoor enclosure, ensure that it meets at least NEMA 4X and IP65 ratings for protection from environmental factors.

Reference Sources

1. Estimation of Total Solar Transmittance For Twin-Wall Polycarbonate Sheet With Rectangular Structure Based On Experimental Studies

• Authors: Z. Zapałowicz, Oliwer Wojnicki
• Published On: February 14, 2022
• Published In: Energies
• Citation Token: (Zapałowicz and Wojnicki, 2022)
• Key Takeaways: 
• This research focuses on estimating the total solar transmittance of TST twin-wall polycarbonate sheets intended for swimming pool covers.
• The findings suggest the TST values for the twin wall polycarbonate sheets were between 0.6 and 0.7, which is lower than the manufacturer’s specified value of 0.8.
• Findings reveal that TST is affected more by time of day and angle of solar radiation incidence than it is by cloud cover.
• Methodology: 
• Measurements were carried out in the field to determine the TST of polycarbonate sheets.
• The study evaluated changes in TST with various solar angles and other circumstantial changes.

2. Estimation of Solar Radiation Transmission for Polycarbonate Retractable Swimming Pool Enclosures

• Authors: Zbigniew Zapałowicz, Agnieszka Garnysz-Rachtan
• Year Of Publication: 2021
• Citation Token: (Zapałowicz & Garnysz-Rachtan 2021)
• Key Findings:
• This work describes the estimation of solar radiation transmission through polycarbonate panels in moving swimming pool enclosures.
• The authors state that estimated mean transmission values were around 0.69 from calculations and 0.64 from experimental results.
• Both the building of the enclosure and the direction of solar radiation affected the transmission to a significant degree.
• Methodology: 
• The authors provided an approach that takes into account the multiple reflections and absorptions of solar radiation inside the enclosure.
• The calculated values of the transmissions for the different cases were experimentally verified.

3. The Preventive Measures for the Spread of Aerosolized Infectious Particles During Healthcare Procedures: A Laboratory Evaluation of a Simple Unique Plastic Shield Enclosure

• Author: Monroe, Luke W. et al.
• Date Published: September 22, 2022
• Journal: PLOS ONE
• Citation: (Monroe et al., 2022)
• Important Findings:
• The objective of the study was to develop a plastic enclosure made of clear polycarbonate that can be manufactured at a low cost and will decrease the spread of aerosol during medical procedures.
• The design of the enclosure captured over 93% of aerosol particles that would have escaped 8cm from the openings.
• The users found the design easy to operate, which is why it was popular among healthcare providers.
• Method:
• The enclosure was evaluated in a laboratory for capture of aerosol particles during the two enclosures and for the various medical procedures performed with and without the enclosure.
• Decay series experiments were performed to measure the time it takes for the aerosol particles suspended in the air to settle out of the air.

4. Study on the Thermal, Lighting, and Energetic Behavior of Construction Using Polycarbonates: The Example of Madrid School Classroom

• Author: Sánchez-Torija, Jorge Gallego, et al.
• Date Published: May 1, 2023
• Journal: Energy Efficiency
• Citation: (Sánchez-Torija et al., 2023, pp. 1-14)
• Important Findings:
• The performance analysis of the energy-efficient classroom built with polycarbonate panels is discussed in the study.
• Results suggest that the use of Polycarbonate Panels improves the amount of natural light entering a space and helps keep the space thermally comfortable.
• Methodology:
• A case study approach was utilized to study energy consumption and environmental metrics in a classroom context.
• Assessments of temperature, illumination, and energy expenditure were recorded within the set duration.

5. Polycarbonate

6. Electrical enclosure

7. Steel