Rittal has developed a plinth system for enclosures based on plastic materials which, it says, offers a fast, flexible alternative to sheet-steel bases. The Flex Block system can be assembled rapidly without tools and creates “intelligent” compartments as substructures, as well as roof-mounting enclosures.

Conventional base and plinth components with sheet-steel corner pieces and panels are time-consuming to assemble. The new system (shown below) simply clicks together. The modules are formed from sturdy corner pieces, corner covers and trim panels made of plastic, and sheet-steel mounting rails.

Enclosure frames are assembled, as before, from the outside or inside. Because the pitch pattern for the interior installation is the same as for Rittal’s TS 8 enclosure system, the same accessories can be used. Levelling feet and castors can be inserted easily into the corner pieces from below with the aid of sleeves.

If the cabinets need to be transported using a low-lift truck, the trim panels and mounting rails can be removed easily, or mounted on site. The system can be incorporated into bays using clips that snap into the corner pieces to provide a stable connection.

As well as serving as a base element with improved cable management, the new system lends itself to climate control systems in an enclosure’s roof or base.

The new rapid assembly system will be available from August 2011, in parallel with Rittal’s existing sheet steel bases and plinths.