Weatherproof Enclosures

Choosing The Right Weatherproof Enclosures To Protect Your Control Systems

Control systems are the brains of water and wastewater operations. They monitor pumps, manage motors, and keep treatment processes running smoothly. But these systems are only as reliable as the enclosures that protect them.

 

If moisture seeps into an enclosure, it can corrode components, cause short circuits, or lead to costly downtime. At Lakeland Engineering Equipment Company, we help municipalities and facilities across the Midwest select the right Delta Fabricating and other custom enclosures to safeguard their operations.

Why Proper Protection Matters

Electrical and control system failures can have serious consequences in water and wastewater applications, including:

  • Electrical shorts from condensation or flooding

  • Dust buildup damaging sensitive electronics

  • Temperature extremes leading to premature equipment failure

  • Safety hazards for technicians and operators

 

The right enclosure protects not just equipment—it safeguards your operation’s reliability, safety, and reputation.

1: NEMA and IP Ratings

Getting the rating right is the foundation of enclosure selection. NEMA and IP standards define exactly how much protection equipment has against water, dust, and corrosion.

  • NEMA 4X: Protects against water, corrosion, and windblown dust—ideal for wastewater facilities.

  • IP66/IP67: Offers complete dust protection and resistance to powerful water jets or temporary submersion.

 

Lakeland’s team helps customers evaluate environmental factors to match enclosures with the right level of protection.

2: Materials That Withstand Harsh Conditions

Different water and wastewater environments call for different materials. Lakeland works closely with Delta Fabricating and other partners to provide enclosures built to last.

 

Stainless Steel

  • High resistance to rust and corrosion

  • Ideal for marine, food & beverage, and chemical-heavy wastewater plants

  • Smooth surface makes it easy to clean during washdowns

Polycarbonate

  • Lightweight yet impact resistant

  • Excellent UV and water protection

  • Cost-effective for outdoor installations

 

Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester (FRP)

  • Durable and chemical-resistant—ideal for harsh environments

  • Tailored designs with double gaskets, locks, and heaters

  • Best for extreme conditions or sensitive equipment

Custom Enclosures

3: Sealing Methods

Even the strongest enclosure is only as reliable as its seal. Proper gasketing and door design prevent water, dust, and chemicals from sneaking in and compromising control systems.

 

Key sealing features include:

  • Gasket seals that form watertight, dust-tight barriers

  • Overlapping doors that eliminate seepage points

  • Locking mechanisms that keep enclosures tightly secured over time

Selecting the Right Outdoor Weatherproof Enclosure

Every system has unique requirements. Lakeland helps facilities select enclosures based on:

  • Location: Indoor pump room vs. outdoor basin area

  • Exposure: Direct rain, chemical washdowns, or dusty operations

  • Size & Accessibility: Room for wiring, maintenance, and upgrades

  • Cooling Needs: Fans, vents, or AC for heat-sensitive controls

 

Example: For a motor control panel located outdoors near a wastewater lagoon, a NEMA 4X stainless steel enclosure with gasketed doors ensures corrosion resistance and watertight performance.

Partner with Lakeland for Long-Term Reliability

Protecting control systems in harsh water and wastewater environments starts with choosing the right enclosure. By understanding ratings, materials, and sealing methods, facilities can keep pumps, motors, and control systems safe for years to come.

 

With over 50 years of partnership with Delta Fabricating and a broad range of enclosure solutions, Lakeland Engineering provides:

  • Local support across the Midwest

  • Application-specific guidance from experienced engineers

  • Access to custom enclosure solutions built in Minnesota

 

Contact Lakeland Engineering today for expert recommendations on weatherproof enclosures designed to protect your critical control systems.

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