Reference boundary

Enclosure-type reference only. It does not approve a panel location, installation, corrosion exposure, washdown exposure, or hazardous location use.

Reference table

Compare common enclosure type markings by environmental protection meaning and typical reference use.

Reference basis uses common NEMA/CSA enclosure type descriptions summarized for preliminary label reading.
Enclosure typeCommon location useProtection summaryBoundary
Type 1Indoor general-purposeIncidental contact and limited indoor dust protectionNot an outdoor or wet-location enclosure reference
Type 3ROutdoor rain and sleet referenceWeather-resistant outdoor enclosure with limited falling-rain protectionNot a washdown or corrosion-resistance substitute
Type 4Indoor or outdoor washdown referenceProtection against splashing water, hose-directed water, and windblown dustCorrosion exposure depends on material and marking
Type 4XIndoor or outdoor corrosion-reference applicationsType 4-style water protection plus additional corrosion resistanceMaterial, gasket, hardware, and environment still need product review
Type 12Indoor industrial referenceDust, falling dirt, and dripping non-corrosive liquid protectionNot an outdoor rain or washdown enclosure reference
Use notes
  • Use this table for preliminary reference and arithmetic checks only.
  • Confirm equipment ratings, product markings, installation conditions, utility requirements, and the local authority requirements before design or field use.