Requirements for enclosures in marine, aviation and defence sectors are exceptionally stringent. These enclosures must not only endure demanding environmental conditions but also comply with safety standards essential for safeguarding sensitive technologies and information. In this article, we offer a deeper insight into what plastic enclosures must deliver for the above-mentioned areas of application, such as tightness, impact protection, EMC shielding measures and which standard enclosures from the OKW portfolio may be suitable.
Devices intended for use in the defence sector must withstand considerable challenges: shocks, vibrations and high mechanical wear over extended periods. Modern technical plastics offer numerous advantages, including impact resistance, flame and UV protection and durability. Furthermore, plastic housings have a significantly lower weight than comparable metal designs and demonstrate that they can also be employed in military applications. Not in all cases, of course, but ultimately only the device manufacturer can make that decision.
Electronic devices in military environments are typically operated by personnel wearing gloves, a wide range of tools is used and tasks are performed under time pressure. Devices can therefore be knocked, dropped or handled incorrectly during installation, transport or subsequent maintenance. Enclosures that are robustly constructed and have an impact resistance rating are therefore advantageous. The IK07 and IK08 ratings confirm that the enclosures can endure these adverse conditions without damage and continue to protect the integrated electronics.
The IK scale originally ranged from IK00 (no protection) to IK10 (extremely high impact resistance). In 2021, class IK11 was introduced. Each level corresponds to an energy value in joules (J), representing the kinetic energy of an impact that the enclosure can withstand without significant damage:
These values may appear low, yet the impact energies replicate realistic shocks, drops or collisions under controlled test conditions, similar to those that can occur during maintenance work, daily handling or environmental influences.
It is essential to provide adequate protection for internal components against external environmental influences. Enclosures designed for more robust applications must prevent the ingress of dust and moisture. Enclosures with protection class IP 65 (protection against water jets up to 30 kPa), IP 66 (protection against short-term flooding up to 100 kPa) or IP 67 (protection against 30-minute immersion in water at depths of 150–1000 mm) are recommended.
View our protection classes explanation in our data sheet 'OKW Protection Classes (.pdf)'.
EMC shielding is essential in critical industries. Most defence-related environments are still exposed to electromagnetic interference – high-power transmitters, small distances between individual devices and mobile platforms all contribute to an increased EMC risk. The devices must function flawlessly during use and must not cause any interference themselves.
And ‘non-combat-related’ does not automatically mean that unwanted signals/fields (EMI/RFI) cannot occur. Any peacekeeping, stabilisation, humanitarian assistance or disaster relief (HADR) mission involving the use of modern electronics in confined, unregulated or complex environments should be considered a risk, and appropriate shielding against external interference and increased interference emissions should be specified.
Naval platforms are known to be susceptible to electromagnetic interference. Ships are made of metal, which promotes the reflection and coupling of electromagnetic energy. They are equipped with radar, automatic identification, sonar, satellite and navigation systems, all of which transmit simultaneously. Small patrol boats and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) are particularly vulnerable because their systems are located close together. In addition, salt water and moisture impair conductivity/grounding, making EMC management more difficult.
Aviation faces the same problem, as aircraft are equipped with high-power transmitters, sensitive receivers and complex power supply systems, all housed in a very small space: radar, transponders, VHF/UHF/satellite communications, ILS, GPS, VOR and DME navigation technology, and in-cabin Wi-Fi.
In our opinion, the following OKW enclosures are suitable, especially when weight is a decisive factor. The wall and table enclosures are regularly used for robust applications where a metal enclosure would previously have been the usual choice.
Durable SOLID-BOX housings for table-top, wall or mast mounting
The new SOLID-BOX (IP 66, IP 67, IK08) can be mounted on the wall as a fully assembled unit thanks to its design. The PC+ABS housings, available in 3 sizes and 2 standard colours, feature clip-on covers that conceal all screw connections. The rear mounting points (sizes 145, 175) comply with the VESA standard and can also be attached to pipes/masts using appropriate brackets.
Versatile enclosures in multiple sizes with extensive accessory options
Versatile ROBUST-BOX wall and table enclosures with a high IP 66 protection rating are available in many sizes and designs: 11 basic dimensions, different heights and 2 standard materials (ABS and PC). An extensive range of accessories (pressure compensation elements, hinges, cover panels in different colours, DIN rail mounting, etc.) completes the variable enclosure series.
Tough enclosures in multiple designs for demanding industrial applications
The enclosures in the IN-BOX series (IP 66, IP 67, IK07 ABS, IK08 PC) are characterised by simple, intelligent and effective wall mounting. They are available in ABS (UL 94 HB) or PC. The housing tops (also available in transparent) are attached with a rational quick-release fastener. The PC housings comply with protection class UL 94 5V (better than V-0). Accessories include pressure compensation elements, sealing sets, hinges, mounting plates and much more.
Ergonomic enclosures with hinged flush-fitting trims for easy installation
The SMART-BOX (IP 66) is another robust wall-mounted enclosure that can be installed with the cover closed. Hinged panels cleverly conceal the screw connection area. A cover lock prevents the upper part of the enclosure from falling off during device installation or subsequent servicing/maintenance.
Compact enclosures shown on a wrist strap, lanyard, and charging pad
Technologies that can be worn on or near the body, known as ‘wearables’, are becoming increasingly important in safety-critical industries. The BODY-CASE can be used, for example, for emergency call applications, data recording and location tracking/person tracking. These UV-resistant ASA enclosures with IP65 protection can be attached to a watch strap, worn on a lanyard, attached to a belt or carried loose in a pocket. You can find more wearable enclosures from our company here:
CONTROL-KNOBS integrated into a CARRYTEC portable enclosure
Alongside standard enclosures, the OKW product portfolio includes high-quality tuning knobs designed for regulating and controlling military equipment. Our latest control elements combine advanced technical features with a contemporary design. These features include optional LED illumination, flush mounting, function-oriented marking components and modern colour choices.
We manufacture enclosures to your exact specifications, with all work carried out in-house to guarantee the highest standards of quality and reliability. Our services include machining, painting, printing and laser marking, application of decorative foils, use of special materials (colour, V-0), EMC shielding and the assembly of accessories.