Which NEMA enclosure type provides protection against light rain and dripping water?

The NEMA 3R enclosure type is specifically designed to provide protection against light rain and dripping water, making it suitable for outdoor use where there may be occasional exposure to moisture. This type of enclosure is constructed to prevent the ingress of water while allowing for air circulation, thus ensuring that the internal components remain safe from the elements.

NEMA 3R enclosures are commonly used for electrical equipment that needs a degree of weather protection but does not require a completely watertight seal, which is essential in situations such as outdoor installations where light rain can occur. This makes NEMA 3R an ideal choice for applications like service equipment and outdoor control panels.

The other enclosure types listed do not provide the same level of protection from rain and drips as NEMA 3R. For instance, NEMA 1 is designed primarily for indoor use and offers no protection against water ingress, while NEMA 4 provides protection from more severe weather conditions, including windblown dust and water, but is overbuilt for applications where only light rain protection is necessary. NEMA 5 is intended for enclosures that provide a degree of dust and oil protection and does not specifically address water exposure. Thus, NEMA 3R is the most