In 2025, sheet metal enclosures remain the backbone of industrial equipment protection. Despite emerging alternatives, their durability and cost-effectiveness keep them relevant. For instance, a recent MarketsandMarkets report predicts 6.2% CAGR growth for metal enclosures through 2030.
| Factor | Steel Enclosures | Aluminum Enclosures |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $18-$25/sq.ft | $30-$40/sq.ft |
| Corrosion Resistance | Requires coating | Inherently resistant |
Overlooking thermal expansion coefficients causes 23% of field failures (ASME 2024 data). Always calculate material behavior under operating temperatures!
“Our team redesigned a medical device enclosure using stamped sheet metal, reducing production costs by 34% while maintaining IP67 rating – the sweet spot between protection and affordability.”
