VX25 – the next generation of large enclosure systems
24 April 2018
After 5 years’ of development, Rittal unveils a new, large enclosure system that meets the needs of increased productivity in control and switchgear manufacturing.
Boasting a number of brand new features, the VX25 is intended to be a full substitution for Rittal’s previous TS 8 enclosure system. The development of VX25 was undertaken by Rittal on its own accord, not as a market request or requirement, but as part of the belief that its products can always be improved.
The key attribute of the VX25 is highlighted within the name itself – the ‘25’ standing for the 25mm pitch pattern on all vertical and horizontal sides that provides complete symmetry and simplicity. This consistent 25mm pitch pattern reduces complexity for the enclosure by reducing the amount of individual parts required for all aspects of the system. The frame of the VX25 provides accessibility from all four sides with the outer two mounting levels able to be populated from the outside without additional parts. The simplicity of the system is further highlighted by the fact that only two tools are required to complete the entire enclosure. Further still, the new snap-on door handles require no tools at all and can be installed with just a few manual operations.
Another key feature is that control and switchgear manufacturers now have no machining to perform on the door due to its 180° hinge allowing it to be able to be mounted on the enclosure without drilling. The hinge is designed so that the door is automatically secured when closed, so that unintentional lifting is avoided. All common variants are available in future for use in the locking system. Electronic locking systems, which are increasingly being used in response to increased safety demands, can be easily retrofitted. No subsequent machining of the door is required again because the bushings needed for the cables are already present.
The base/plinth has also been completely rethought. It combines all the functions of the TS and the Flex-Block base/plinth systems in one solution, but all the usual enclosure accessories can now also be installed in the base/plinth. New protective slides provide additional assembly comfort. It’s often difficult to install heavy mounting plates due to the awkwardness of lifting them with a crane and the subsequent installation. With the VX25, protective slides ensure that the mounting plate can be easily positioned and screwed in place after it has been lowered down by the crane.
A number of innovations have also been implemented when it comes down to joining up enclosures in bayed suites. The new baying system needs far fewer parts with only four baying clamps being required compared to the previous fourteen. Since all the screws are mounted in the direction of the bay, assembly is also simplified. A new baying seal, which is simply snapped on and easily positioned, ensures that the enclosure’s degree of protection is retained when baying.
The 25mm pitch pattern continues through into adjacent bayed enclosures which allows for rails to be mounted over multiple enclosures. These and other baying options can now be implemented with a 40 percent smaller range of punched sections with or without mounting flanges. This way, inventories and logistics outlay can also be substantially reduced.
At the same time, the new frame section in 20mm installation depth provides more space in the enclosure, space which is now available for the installation of components. Depending on the application involved and the components used, smaller switchgear can be used, which translates into lower costs.
Rittal says that the price level for the VX25 will be similar to that of the TS 8, but for a superior product.
Finally, the VX25 is also supporting the control and switchgear industry’s move towards Industry 4.0 by combining the real enclosure with a digital twin. This process of digitalisation offers panel builders and switchgear manufacturers significant efficiency gains and opens up new avenues to utilise data. Rittal’s digital workflow enables more accurate planning and greater flexibility when it comes to the configuration, manufacturing and assembly of enclosures and offers you far greater control than previous manual processes.
For more information on the VX25, please visit: https://www.rittal.com/com_en/vx25/index.php?lng=en
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