The need for dedicated equipment in remote locations or as supplements to existing infrastructure has grown with the need for more power to keep critical equipment up and running. Equipment enclosures have become commonplace, and with that has come a need for customizable, cost-effective options. For customers needing an equipment enclosure, Armoda highly recommends using an interlocking panel design for a wide range of applications. Let's look at what an interlocking panel design is, how they work, and the advantages they provide over traditional stick-built enclosures and buildings.

What are interlocking panels?

Interlocking panels are a modular construction system for fabricating equipment enclosures and other structures. These panels consist of individual components that fit together seamlessly, forming a strong and secure enclosure. The interlocking feature allows for quick and easy assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of the panels as needed.

Starting with a structural steel skid as a foundation, interlocking panels are used to enclose and create a building. Typically, interlocking panels are made from steel, aluminum, or composite materials. They are designed with precision-cut edges or profiles that interlock with corresponding features on adjacent panels. The interlocking mechanism can be in the form of tabs, grooves, or other types of connectors, depending on the specific design of the panels.

Common Uses of Interlocking Panels

Interlocking panel equipment enclosures are an ideal solution for a range of needs, including control rooms, e-houses, substations, and to house other types of electrical equipment. You can learn more about these types of technical buildings and what they are used for here in our previous article: 8 Technical Building Acronyms You Should Know.

But for now, let's explore the advantages of equipment enclosures with an interlocking panel design:

• Cost-effective: Interlocking panel equipment enclosures can be constructed offsite at the manufacturer's facility. This can save costs by:
  • Eliminating the need to pay per diems, mileage, or lodging for the entirety of the project as they would if built on location.
  • Leaving the staffing to the manufacturer. Equipment enclosure manufacturers, like Armoda, staff the necessary workforce to construct and integrate the buildings they make. Using their staff allows you to reduce the need for expensive third-party contractors.
  • Working at the manufacturer's facility provides for a process to be put in place that reduces the time it takes to construct the building, thereby reducing the cost.
• Ease of assembly: The panels can be quickly and easily connected, eliminating the need for complex tools or specialized skills. This allows for faster installation and reduces labor costs.
• Flexibility and modularity: Interlocking panels are often designed to be modular, meaning they can be easily reconfigured to reduce or expand to accommodate changing equipment or space requirements. The panels can be disassembled and rearranged without damaging the structure, providing flexibility for future modifications
• Structural integrity: The interlocking mechanism provides a secure and tight fit between panels, ensuring structural stability and rigidity. This stability is important for equipment enclosures, as it helps protect sensitive or valuable equipment from external elements and provides a safe operating environment.
• Building Code Compliant: based on where the enclosure will be put to work, there could be a variety of local and federal building codes that must be met. Interlocking panel design equipment enclosures can be built to meet any relevant building codes for the project.
• Aesthetics and customization: Interlocking panels can be designed to have a clean and sleek appearance, creating a professional and aesthetically pleasing enclosure. The panels can also be customized with various finishes, colors, and branding options to meet specific design preferences or corporate identity requirements.
• Portability and transportability: As interlocking panels are modular and can be disassembled, they are often lightweight and portable. Their modular nature makes them suitable for applications where transportation or relocation is necessary, such as temporary installations.

Interlocking panels provide a versatile, efficient, and cost-effective solution for fabricating equipment enclosures. They can be utilized to house and protect a wide range of equipment, offering many advantages over traditional stick build houses. If you require a control room, e-house, or another type of equipment enclosure, contact Armoda today. We have the experience and capabilities to provide a fully customized enclosure to meet your project's needs.