Selecting suitable enclosure solutions for demanding IIoT environments

In the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), data serves as the driving force behind key functions such as real-time monitoring, process optimisation, predictive maintenance, quality assurance, energy management, supply chain efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Managing the vast streams of critical data generated by IIoT applications requires a highly robust network infrastructure. As Industry 4.0 gains momentum, demand for IIoT network hardware is accelerating — driven by manufacturers eager to harness its potential.

According to Coherent Market Insights, the global IIoT market reached $483.16 billion last year and is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 23.3% through 2030. It’s no surprise that electronics designers are rapidly innovating to meet this rising demand.

As a result, demand for specialist enclosures tailored to IIoT electronics has intensified. Smart Factory advancements have created new opportunities — especially for plastic enclosure manufacturers — as high-performance thermoplastics increasingly challenge the dominance of traditional diecast aluminium in industrial settings.

ABS was once the default material for many enclosure applications due to its impact and chemical resistance. However, its poor UV stability has led to a growing shift towards UV-resistant alternatives like ASA and blends such as ASA+PC-FR. Even so, ABS remains relevant in industrial electronics — particularly when reinforced with more robust materials like polycarbonate.

For IIoT applications, plastic enclosures must offer robust strength and reliable protection against dust and water ingress — typically with an IP rating of 65, 66, or 67. Yet, durability and ingress protection are only the beginning…

With so many sensors integrated into IIoT systems, quick and efficient installation is essential. Enclosures like OKW’s MINI-DATA-BOX are available with optional flanges, enabling secure fastening using cable ties or screws. Similarly, EASYTEC models feature integral flanges and a rear curved recess that enhances stability when mounted on poles or rails.

Compact handheld or wearable enclosures are also well suited to IIoT sensor applications, especially in smart logistics. Originally developed for personal electronics, the award-winning MINITEC series offers an extensive selection of standard formats in various sizes, shapes, and colours. A key feature of the design is its modular intermediate rings, which enable a wide range of mounting and carrying solutions, making it easy to secure MINITEC to assets requiring tracking.

Many IIoT enclosures are designed with sleek, contemporary lines that elevate their visual appeal — an increasingly important factor in today’s advanced manufacturing environments. As standard components, they need to strike a balance between being visually appealing and maintaining a subtle, unobtrusive presence.

Wall-mounted solutions like the SMART-PANEL embody this design philosophy. These ASA+PC-FR flush-fit enclosures are engineered to suit standard cavity wall boxes, delivering a sleek, integrated look in contemporary industrial environments. Their screwless assembly further streamlines installation.

Many IIoT applications also call for larger-format plastic enclosures like the new SOLID-BOX. Rated IP66/IP67 with an IK08 impact classification, these housings incorporate design features typically found in diecast enclosures — including ‘lid closed’ installation to minimise dust and water ingress during setup in demanding environments. Additional elements such as deep side recesses, safeguard connectors and interfaces, while integrated hinges hold the lid securely when open.

For more information, view the OKW website: https://www.okw.com.au.