Frequently Asked Questions
Product Information
What are DragonPlate carbon fiber electronics enclosures?
DragonPlate carbon fiber electronics enclosures are lightweight, high-strength structures designed to house sensitive electronic systems. They are engineered to reduce weight, maintain dimensional tolerances across wide temperature ranges, and provide options for EMI shielding and high-temperature resistance. These enclosures are suitable for airborne, ship-based, and other demanding applications where traditional metal or plastic enclosures may fall short. Note: For applications requiring extreme customization or unique geometries, additional engineering support may be necessary.
What are the main benefits of using carbon fiber for electronics enclosures?
The main benefits include significant weight reduction (less than half the weight of comparable metal cabinets), high stiffness, improved shock and vibration performance (e.g., passing 100g shock testing), stable dimensional tolerances over a wide temperature range, and the ability to add EMI shielding via copper coatings. Note: For applications requiring extreme impact resistance, hybrid or Kevlar options may be more suitable.
How do DragonPlate carbon fiber enclosures perform in shock and vibration tests?
DragonPlate carbon fiber enclosures have demonstrated superior performance in shock and vibration tests. For example, a shock isolation cabinet developed for the US Navy weighed less than half of a comparable metal cabinet and easily passed 100g shock testing, outperforming heavier aluminum enclosures due to the high natural frequency of carbon fiber. Note: Actual performance may vary based on enclosure design and mounting method.
How do carbon fiber enclosures handle temperature changes compared to metal or plastic?
Carbon fiber enclosures maintain dimensional tolerances over a much wider temperature range than plastic or metal enclosures. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of carbon fiber is approximately the same as Invar, which greatly reduces thermal issues for sensitive electronics, lasers, mirrors, and sensors. Note: For continuous exposure above 500°F, consult DragonPlate for material suitability.
Can DragonPlate enclosures be used in high-temperature environments?
Yes, DragonPlate offers high-temperature carbon fiber materials that can withstand operating temperatures between 250°F and 500°F for extended periods. These materials can survive direct exposure to a propane torch for 30 to 60 seconds with only a minor reduction in stiffness. Note: For applications above this range, detailed limitations are not publicly documented; ask sales for specifics.
What options are available for EMI shielding in DragonPlate enclosures?
DragonPlate offers the application of a copper coating on one or both sides of carbon fiber sheets, cores, tubes, and structural components. This copper coating enables the creation of RF-shielded enclosures, RFID blocking enclosures, and Faraday cages. Note: The effectiveness of EMI shielding depends on the enclosure design and installation; consult technical support for optimal results.
What customization and engineering support does DragonPlate provide for electronics enclosures?
DragonPlate provides in-house engineering support, including CAD modeling, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and prototyping capabilities. Customers can request custom solutions for unique requirements, from single custom structures to production runs. Note: Lead times for custom projects may vary depending on complexity and requirements.
Features & Capabilities
What structural components and connector systems are available for building enclosures?
DragonPlate offers a range of off-the-shelf carbon fiber structural components and connector systems, including frames, mounting plates, and modular connectors. These components allow for straightforward construction of lightweight, easily disassembled enclosures. Note: For highly specialized assemblies, custom fabrication may be required.
Are there high-temperature or flame-retardant options for electronics enclosures?
Yes, DragonPlate provides high-temperature carbon fiber materials suitable for operating temperatures between 250°F and 500°F, as well as flame-retardant products for demanding environments. These options are ideal for applications where both weight and fire resistance are critical. Note: For continuous exposure to open flame or temperatures above 500°F, consult DragonPlate for limitations.
What technical documentation and resources are available for DragonPlate enclosures?
Technical resources include downloadable CAD models, detailed weights and specifications, finishes information, and comprehensive guides such as "The Ultimate Guide to Carbon Fiber Design and Application." These resources support design, engineering integration, and material selection. Note: Some advanced documentation may require direct inquiry with DragonPlate.
Use Cases & Benefits
Who should consider using DragonPlate carbon fiber electronics enclosures?
These enclosures are best suited for engineers, designers, and organizations in aerospace, marine defense, robotics, and any application where weight reduction, dimensional stability, and EMI shielding are critical. They are also valuable for projects requiring high-temperature resistance or custom configurations. Note: For applications with minimal weight or EMI concerns, traditional enclosures may suffice.
Can you share a real-world example of DragonPlate enclosures in use?
DragonPlate collaborated with Frontier Electronic Systems to develop a carbon fiber shock isolation cabinet for the US Navy. This enclosure weighed less than half of a comparable metal cabinet and passed 100g shock testing, providing improved performance for ship-based electronics. Read more. Note: Results may vary based on specific project requirements.
Pricing & Ordering
How is pricing determined for DragonPlate electronics enclosures?
Pricing for DragonPlate electronics enclosures varies based on product type, size, thickness, finishes, and additional features such as copper coatings for EMI shielding. All prices are quoted in US Dollars. Shipping charges are calculated based on package weight and dimensions, with possible surcharges for oversized or overweight packages. Taxes are the responsibility of the buyer unless a valid exemption is provided. Note: Prices and discounts are subject to change without notice; contact DragonPlate for a current quote.
How can I order a custom or production-run enclosure from DragonPlate?
You can request a quote for a custom or production-run enclosure by contacting DragonPlate directly via their website or by phone at 315-252-2559. Provide your project requirements, and their engineering team will assist with design, prototyping, and manufacturing. Note: Lead times and minimum order quantities may apply for custom projects.
Support & Implementation
What support is available for integrating DragonPlate enclosures into my project?
DragonPlate offers technical support via phone and email, as well as comprehensive documentation, CAD models, and engineering guides to assist with integration. Their team can help with troubleshooting, design questions, and material selection. Note: For highly specialized support, direct consultation may be required.
Are DragonPlate electronics enclosures manufactured to any quality standards?
Yes, all DragonPlate products, including electronics enclosures, are manufactured under ISO 9001:2015 quality standards at their facility in Elbridge, New York. This ensures reliability and consistency for demanding applications. Note: For additional certifications or compliance documentation, contact DragonPlate directly.
There are several benefits of lightweight carbon fiber electronics enclosures. The primary reason our customers look to carbon fiber for these applications is to reduce weight. 
This is particularly the case when the electronics systems are airborne or ship-based. As an example of the possible mass reduction, Dragonplate worked with Frontier Electronic Systems to develop a carbon fiber shock isolation cabinet for the US Navy. This cabinet weighs less than half of the comparable metal cabinets, yet .jpg)
Using off-the-shelf 
For those applications whose operating temperatures reach between 250 and 500 degrees fahrenheit, DragonPlate also offers a 
If your electronics enclosure also requires EMI Sheilding, DragonPlate offers the application of a copper coating on one or both sides of your carbon fiber sheet. This copper coating can be applied on virtually any of our products, including carbon fiber cores, sheets, tubes and structural components. This coating is great for creating RF sheilded enclosures, RFID blocking enclosures and Faraday cages.
