Irrigation systems are used for both commercial and residential environments and are an important aspect for a wide range of applications. These systems impact everyday life ranging from keeping crops watered on farms to sprinkler systems keeping golf courses looking pristine. To protect these vital systems, it is important to have the correct controller enclosure to ensure the long-term durability of the irrigation system.
Irrigation Systems and Sensors
Consumers can find irrigation products that use advanced sensors, Wi-Fi, and app-based capability to automatically adjust watering schedules, communicate problems and save water. Giving consumers more data and power to control irrigation systems than ever before. There are multiple styles of systems and sensors that can be used ranging from simple time clocks to advanced weather controls.
Clock-based controllers
These controllers are a simple yet effective way to set a schedule for water irrigation systems. These systems can be used for residential purposes to set a start and stop time of in-ground sprinkler systems or scheduled to begin at the start of the growing season. This style of system is not often adjusted and more of a “set it and forget it” style.
Weather-based controllers
As an alternative to clock-based controllers, weather-based irrigation controllers are scheduled based on local weather and landscape conditions. This tailors the amount, frequency and timing of watering based on varying conditions. These controllers self-adjust and require very little intervention when programmed correctly. These can be “stand-alone” or be used in conjunction with an existing clock-based controller to further help with water efficiency.
Soil-moisture controller
Soil-moisture controllers rely on specialized sensors placed below ground in the root zones of the landscape to determine if and for how long the system needs to run. Based on the moisture levels of the soil, the controller will override pre-determined set points for the most efficient use of water.
Rain/freeze sensors:
Adding rain and freeze sensors to your irrigation system helps prevent the use of wasteful watering. Rain sensors prevent irrigation systems from running during the detection of rainy conditions. Additional protection can be added when a freeze sensor is installed. Freeze sensors add the ability to stop irrigation when temperatures approach freezing to prevent damage to the plants. Pairing these two devices together can reduce overall water usage and help extend the life of the irrigation system.
Stainless Steel Enclosures for Irrigation
The multiple sensors and controls involved in an irrigation system benefit greatly from a protective electrical enclosure. Electrical enclosures protect wires and controls from vandalism, theft and inclement weather. Its important to choose the correct type of enclosure to ensure the safety and reliability of your irrigation system.
Stainless Steel electrical enclosures are a popular choice for many outdoor applications, including irrigation and landscaping. Stainless steel is an incredibly versatile and durable metal, and highly regarded for it’s superior durability and aesthetic qualities.
Benefits of Utilizing Weather Resistant Stainless-Steel Enclosures
If not properly protected, outdoor irrigation controls can be subject to a wide range of rain, ice and blistering sun. This threatens the reliability and safety of the electrical controls and can shorten the lifespan of the system overall. Stainless steel electrical enclosures are a superior choice for housing irrigation controls due to their durability in a wide range of weather conditions.
Corrosion Resistance
One of the most significant characteristics of stainless steel is its resistance to rust and corrosion. In the near-constant wet conditions of farming and landscaping irrigation, stainless steel enclosures stand strong and last much longer than enclosures made of traditional steel or fiberglass. Stainless steel is comprised with a minimum of 11% chromium, this alloy creates a protective layer on the surface of the metal, resisting the oxidization process that causes rust. More importantly, this “protective layer” does not degrade or scratch off like paint or other coatings.
Enhanced Durability
Stainless steel is an extremely durable material that can withstand wide temperature fluctuations, harsh weather and even accidental impacts. Unlike inferior materials that will crack and degrade over time, stainless steel maintains its integrity for decades. Stainless steel is also highly durable against solvents and cleaners, making it easy to maintain and deter vandalism.
Temperature Regulation
Excessive heat can be devastating for electrical components. When exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures, some enclosures can absorb and trap heat, wreaking havoc on the enclosed electronics. However, the high chromium content in stainless steel allows the metal to reflect sunlight and dissipate heat effectively, keeping electronics cool. StrongBox also includes filtered louvers on either side of our controller enclosures to allow for cross-flow ventilation.
Aesthetic
Stainless steel is widely popular for its aesthetic looks and reflective finish, lending it to be a perfect fit to blend into any landscaping setting. Its natural brushed finish provides an unobtrusive quality when used in both commercial and residential environments.
StrongBox Controller Enclosures
StrongBox manufactures multiple styles of NEMA 3R rated stainless steel enclosures, that are engineered to protect your irrigation systems. These 100% stainless steel constructed enclosures are durable and long-lasting and are an ideal fit for the environments often seen in the irrigation industry.
StrongBox Stainless Steel Enclosure Types
Heavy Duty Front Entry Enclosures
Ideal match for high-traffic and corrosive environments. They offer maximum long-lasting protection for harsh outdoor conditions plus the added security of our t-handle latching system. Heavy duty enclosures feature multiple layers of protection with a pad lockable hasp concealed by a keyed access door. These durable enclosures are also outfitted with 100% stainless steel hardware and a sturdy continuous hinge to handle everything from severe weather to vandalism.
Heavy Duty Top Entry Enclosures
An ergonomic alternative to our front entry heavy duty enclosures. The continuous hinged flip top provides easy access for viewing and programming irrigation controls. Top entry enclosures feature an additional storage compartment in the base to conceal wires and auxiliary components.
Ideal for when you need to store your controllers up and out of the way. All sizes of wall mount enclosures come with strengthen mounting brackets and pre-cut bottom plate for easy installation and attaching of conduit.
Perfect for mild or indoor applications where harsh weather and vandalism are not a concern. The slim design and flush mounted access door create an easy, space-saving storage solution.
Request a Quote for a Controller Enclosure
If you are looking for a long lasting and reliable enclosure to protect your irrigation and sprinkler controls, StrongBox enclosures are the ideal solution. Our decades of experience and extensive range of stock options ensures a perfect-fit solution for any irrigation, landscaping or outdoor controller application.
Accessories
We provide a variety of accessories to enhance the functionality of your enclosures. From mounting accessories to controller subassemblies, StrongBox has everything you need to optimize your irrigation enclosure.
NEMA 4X Enclosure.
When additional protection from water, oil and dirt, StrongBox offers standard NEMA 4X rated enclosures. These enclosures offer the ultimate protection from weather with a flange collar around all sides of the door face providing a watertight seal with the foam-in-place urethane gasket.
To learn more about our products or to request a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 800-729-1314 to speak to our dedicated customer service team.