Intensive customer dialog played a decisive role in the development of the 'VX25' large enclosure system. A large-scale, scientifically based usability study of control and switchgear manufacturers in Germany, the USA and China resulted in 150 specific requirements for the 'enclosure of the future'. Rittal supplemented these with the findings of the customer advisory board, which was also involved. As a result, the large enclosure system retains the key product features of the previous 'TS 8' standard and also integrates a large number of functions.

Most of the improved functionalities of the large enclosure are based on a new frame profile, which, for example, provides accessibility from all four sides of the enclosure. According to the manufacturer, this saves around 30 minutes compared to conventional assembly. In addition, mounting plates can also be installed from the rear, which is particularly advantageous when installing mounting plates with heavy components.

As the frame profile is accessible from all sides, an additional mounting level is created. Partition and bulkhead walls as well as covers for contact hazard protection can be mounted directly on the frame profile from the outside when the side or rear panel is removed. This leaves more space in the enclosure, which can be used for the installation of electrical components.

Consistent dimensional grid

The continuous 25 mm grid dimension, even in the horizontal parts, allows the enclosure to be extended beyond the boundaries of the enclosure.

© Rittal

A novelty is the comprehensive, continuous 25 mm dimensional grid, which is also used in the horizontal parts of the frame. This allows the enclosure to be expanded flexibly across enclosure boundaries. Removal components for the vertical frame parts also fit in the roof and floor areas of the enclosure. For bayed enclosures, the 25 mm dimensional grid continues into the adjacent enclosure so that, for example, rails can be installed across several enclosures. At the same time, the installation depth creates 20 mm more space in the enclosure, which is available for the installation of components.

Another significant reduction in complexity relates to the assembly and disassembly of the doors: this can be done completely without tools in one-man assembly. The door is simply hooked into the hinge, which is designed so that the door is automatically secured when it closes.

Digital twin

With the VX25, all 3D data is available throughout. With the digital product, electrical planning, mechanical design, purchasing, costing and production, as well as all other areas of switchgear construction, always have access to complete data. Efficient project planning and design is ensured by the download of detailed, validated 3D CAD data, flexible data transfer in all common CAD systems - a total of 70 formats - mechatronic engineering using CAE/CAD, the creation of the enclosure layout with 'Eplan Pro Panel' and the classification of data according to eClass and ETIM.

The web-based 'Rittal Configuration System' enables error-free configuration - even without CAD knowledge - of the enclosure and the required expansion components. Integrated plausibility checks, which provide direct feedback, ensure planning reliability. Validated configuration and engineering results then provide the basis for the automatic control of machines in plant engineering production. To optimize the value creation processes in control and switchgear manufacturing, the flat parts of the VX25 are provided with a QR code, which makes production control and traceability in control and switchgear manufacturing conceivable.