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How to Custom Subrack Systems and Accessories?

Dec. 06, 2024

Customizing subrack systems and accessories is essential for tailoring electronic enclosures to specific requirements. Whether you’re designing for industrial automation, telecommunication, or custom projects, selecting the right subrack and accessories ensures durability, compatibility, and performance. This article will delve into the steps and considerations needed to create the perfect custom subrack system.This comprehensive guide walks you through the critical considerations and steps to successfully design and order custom subrack systems, including material selection, accessory customization, cooling solutions, and quality assurance.


Understanding Subrack Systems


Subrack systems serve as the backbone of electronic enclosures, housing sensitive components like PCBs, modules, and connectors. Their main function is to provide a secure, organized, and maintainable framework, often conforming to standards such as IEC 60297 and DIN 41612.

In many industrial applications, a custom subrack system allows flexibility in:

  • Size and depth to fit specific components

  • Materials to withstand environmental challenges

  • Modular design to support future upgrades

For example, Rdekono’s EG PRO Series Subracks offer versatile configurations ideal for telecom and control systems, combining rugged construction with user-friendly features.


EG PRO Series Subracks

EG PRO Series Subracks


Factors to Consider Before Customizing


Before you start customizing, you should carefully evaluate:

  • Component Specifications: Measure size, weight, and electrical requirements of the housed modules.

  • Environmental Conditions: Will the subrack be exposed to dust, moisture, heat, or vibration? This affects material and accessory choices.

  • System Integration: Ensure compatibility with existing cabinets, backplanes, and connectors.

Having clear answers upfront will help your manufacturer provide a solution that fits perfectly.


Selecting the Right Materials


Material choice is one of the most critical aspects when customizing subrack systems. Material selection impacts subrack durability, weight, and thermal performance:

  • Aluminum: Lightweight, excellent heat dissipation, corrosion resistant—ideal for sensitive electronics.

  • Steel: High strength and impact resistance, suitable for harsh or outdoor environments.

  • Plastic: Cost-effective and lightweight, but less durable; typically used in low-stress applications.


Designing for Efficiency and Access


A custom subrack system should facilitate:

  • Easy Installation and Maintenance: Tool-less assembly, removable panels, and clear labeling.

  • Cable Management: Integrated pathways to keep wiring organized and reduce interference.

  • Modularity: Allowing future upgrades without replacing the entire system.

Thoughtful design increases uptime and lowers operational costs.


Choosing the Right Accessories


Accessories play a vital role in ensuring the optimal performance and protection of the subrack system. Typical options include:

  • Cooling Solutions: Fan trays, heat sinks, or liquid cooling for thermally demanding systems.

  • Mounting Brackets: Adjustable rails and supports to fit various module sizes.

  • EMC Shielding and Gaskets: To protect sensitive electronics from electromagnetic interference.

  • Cable Management: Clips, ducts, and panels to organize wiring.

Depending on your application, Rdekono’s accessory range can be tailored to meet precise requirements. Learn more on their Service Page.

Heavy Type-EG-II Rear

Heavy Type-EG-II Rear

Customizing Cooling Solutions


Thermal management often defines system reliability. Custom subracks can include:

  • Fan Trays: Forced airflow to dissipate heat in compact spaces.

  • Heat Sinks: Passive cooling for lower noise environments.

  • Liquid Cooling: For high-power applications requiring advanced heat removal.

Choosing the right cooling depends on component heat output and ambient conditions.


Ensuring Compatibility with Existing Equipment


Your custom subrack must integrate seamlessly with other system parts. Ensure:

  • Adherence to standard dimensions and mounting hole patterns

  • Alignment with electrical connectors like DIN41612/IEC603-2

  • Compatibility with rack cabinets and backplanes

Close collaboration with your manufacturer during design helps avoid costly incompatibilities.


Quality Assurance and Testing


Before finalizing production, thorough testing is essential:

  • Mechanical Strength Tests: To verify durability under expected conditions.

  • Thermal Testing: Confirm cooling solutions perform adequately.

  • Electrical Safety Checks: Ensure insulation and grounding meet standards.

  • User Access Trials: Validate ease of maintenance and assembly.

Rdekono offers quality-controlled manufacturing and supports third-party inspections for peace of mind.


Cost Considerations for Custom Subracks


Custom subrack solutions may require a higher upfront investment than off-the-shelf units. However, the benefits include:

  • Improved system reliability

  • Reduced downtime and maintenance costs

  • Better space utilization and future-proofing

Consider total cost of ownership rather than initial price alone.

VERO Subracks

VERO Subracks

Questions and Answers About Custom Subrack Systems


1. What are the advantages of custom subrack systems?


Custom subrack systems offer the advantage of tailoring the design to fit specific components, ensuring compatibility and improving overall efficiency. They can also be optimized for different environmental conditions, increasing the system’s durability and reliability.


2. How do I know which material is best for my subrack system?


The material choice depends on your specific needs. Aluminum is ideal for lightweight, heat-sensitive systems, while steel is best for heavy-duty applications. If cost is a concern, plastic might be the most suitable option.


3. Can I customize the cooling solution in a subrack?


Yes, cooling solutions can be customized. Options include fan trays, heat sinks, and liquid cooling systems, depending on the thermal requirements of your components.


4. How do I ensure the custom subrack is compatible with my existing equipment?


Ensure the subrack is designed to match standard sizes and connection specifications. Collaboration with the manufacturer during the design phase can help align the subrack with your equipment’s needs.


5. How much do custom subracks typically cost?


Custom subracks can vary widely in price depending on the complexity, materials, and accessories involved. While they may be more expensive upfront, they offer long-term value by reducing the need for modifications or replacements.


Find Subrack Systems and Accessories. Now with us! Search For Subrack Systems and Accessories at https://www.rdekono.com.


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