Optical Enclosure Accessories


  • Anodized Aluminum and High-Strength Plastic Cubes for Corners
  • Black Hardboard and Aluminum Enclosure Panels
  • Hardware and Kits for Adding Enclosure Lids
  • Cover Plate Protects Rail End

XE25H

Hinge for Lids or
Other Openings

XE25W3

Quick-Install Corner

XE25LS

Backstop

XE25C

Cover Plate

TB4

Black Hardboard

XE25GSK

Door Opener Kit
(Not to Scale;
Screws, Brackets, and Gas Springs Included)

XE25DK1

Sliding Door Kit
(Not to Scale)

LPCE9

Laser Safety Fabric Panel
(Not to Scale)

Related Items


Please Wait
Side Aluminum Enclosure
Click for Details
Side view of XE25C11 and AEPU1 enclosure utility panel.

Features

  • Construction Cubes for Rigid Corners and Joints
  • Right-Angle Brackets and Gusset Plates Reinforce Corners
  • Enclosure Panels
    • Lightweight Black Hardboard Panels Block Unwanted Light
    • Durable Aluminum Panels with Blank Connection Panels
    • Laser Safety Fabric Panels Certified to EN Specifications
  • Kit for Assembly of Sliding Doors for Existing Enclosures
  • Hinge for Constructing Lids that Smoothly Open and Close
  • Backstops, Door Opener Kit, and Lockable Bracket to Hold Enclosure Lids Open
  • Attachable Handles Allow Easy Movement
  • Cover Plate Hides Exposed Rail Ends

Thorlabs' add-ons for 25 mm rail optical enclosures aid in building complex structures that are sturdy and easy to use. We offer construction cubes of either high-strength plastic or anodized aluminum for forming corners of up to three rails, as well as brackets and gusset plates that reinforce right-angle connections. Our black hardboard and posterboard panels block stray light and can easily be cut to size. We also offer a kit for the addition of sliding doors to an existing optical enclosure such as the XE25C9(/M). Additionally, our hinges, backstops, door opener kit, and locking bracket help construct convenient enclosure openings. Our non-flammable, black-anodized aluminum enclosure utility panels offer superior durability to our black hardboard panels, while our flame-retardant laser safety fabric panels provide a flexible alternative. Thorlabs also manufactures a cover plate designed to shield a rail end.

Thorlabs' accessories for assemblies made of 25 mm rails include corner cubes and brackets, T-Nuts, low-profile channel screws, breadboard mounting accessories, rail joiners, and a channel insert. In addition, we offer optical enclosures and do-it-yourself tools like taps, tap guides, and drill guides for home-built XE25-based constructions.

Finished Three-Way CornerClick to Enlarge
Home-Built 90° Corner

XE25 Construction Techniques

Thorlabs' XE25 rails and components are the building blocks for many types of modular systems, including custom enclosures. For the most demanding applications, Thorlabs recommends the "direct connection" technique for forming right angles with rails, detailed here. All the construction parts shown in this tutorial are available on our XE25 Construction Tools page.


Step 1: Drill Side Holes

A Ø4.6 mm hole in the end of one rail, as shown in the picture to the right, is needed to provide access for a 1/8" (4 mm) balldriver.

For this step, you will need the T119873 Ø4.6 mm Drill Bit, the XE25DG Drill Guide, a hand drill or drill press, and a vise such as the TMV2.

The XE25DG drill guide is secured to the rail using the locking screw on top. A guide hole for the drill bit will be located 12.5 mm from the end of the rail. Now a hole can be drilled into the rail as shown in the figure to the left.

If your application requires a "three-way corner," such as that shown at the top of the page, you will have to drill a second hole in the rail at a 90° angle relative to the first hole.


Step 2: Tap the Center Hole, If Necessary

All stock and custom-length anodized XE25 rails have a 1/4"-20 (M6) tapped hole in the end of the rail. If you have cut a standard XE25 rail, or are using the XE25RL2 Raw Extrusion, you will need to tap a hole into the end of the rail.

For this step, you will need the 71598 1/4"-20 Tap (or the 71498 M6 Tap), the XE25TG Tap Guide, and the TW25 Hand Tap Wrench.

Fix the tap inside the tap wrench. Place the tap guide block over the end of the rail. The hole in the top of the guide will keep the tap square with the hole and minimize the chance of misthreading. Turn the tap to thread the hole.


Step 3: Attach Low-Profile Channel Screw

For this step, you will need a SH25LP38 1/4"-20-threaded (SH6M10LP M6-threaded) Low-Profile Channel Screw and a 1/8" (4 mm) balldriver.

Insert the screw into the threaded hole in the end of the rail, and tighten down partway with the balldriver. If you are making a three-way connection, you will need to thread another channel screw into the end of a second rail.


Step 4: Join the Rails

Slide the head of the channel screw into the channel of the rail with the drilled holes, so that the hex head lines up with the hole. Insert the balldriver into the hole, and tighten the channel screw. If making a three-way connection, repeat this process with the third rail, as shown in the figure to the right.

For increased stability, the corners may be reinforced with the XE25A90 Right-Angle Bracket.

This video provides step-by-step instructions on how to assemble a two-door, 1200 mm x 600 mm x
525 mm (L x W x H) enclosure with black hardboard panels. The parts needed for this custom enclosure are provided in the tables below.

Design a Custom Enclosure Using Thorlabs Components
With our vast selection of enclosure components, building your own DIY optical enclosure is simple. All our optical enclosure components, from panels to optical rails and corner cubes, can be purchased separately and customized to a size suitable for your application. For example, simple enclosures can be constructed to be as small as 1' x 1' x 1' (300 mm x 300 mm x 300 mm), whereas much larger enclosures are possible and might include hinged doors for easy access to an experiment. Enclosure components are designed to work together seamlessly, reducing the amount of time required during assembly.

Any side or dimension of the enclosure can be modified to suit the requirements of your application. The black hardboard enclosure panels can be cut to the appropriate size or drilled to accommodate integrating optomechanical components, like lens tubes. Alternatively, black-anodized aluminum panels are available with pre-drilled slots, for fiber and electrical panels, and an SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) through hole.

Should you choose not to build your own DIY enclosure, we welcome the opportunity to work with you to provide a custom enclosure that meets your specific requirements. Customizable options include enclosure dimensions, like panel sizes and optical rails; panel material, like black hardboard or black-anodized aluminum; and number and configuration of doors. We will ensure the proper fit and function of the customized components. Once the custom enclosure meets specification, we will ship the components for customer assembly. Please note that aluminum breadboards are not included with our custom enclosures and that enclosures will need to be assembled by the customer.

If you would like consultation regarding whether to place a custom order or which components you need to purchase in order to assemble your own DIY optical enclosure, please contact Tech Sales.

Custom Enclosure Example
This section details how to construct a two-door enclosure with black hardboard panels, which is shown completely assembled in the bottom-right image. Watch the video above for step-by-step instructions on how to assemble this particular enclosure. The size of this enclosure is 1200 mm x 600 mm x 525 mm (L x W x H). Refer to the tables below for a complete parts list. The enclosure was constructed from metric components, but it can also be constructed using the imperial equivalent components.

Custom Enclosure
Click for Details

Custom enclosures can be built using our 25 mm rails and accessories. This two-door enclosure was constructed entirely from stock items. The video above provides step-by-step instructions on how to assemble this enclosure.
Custom Enclosure Back
Click to Enlarge
Two TB4 hardboards (cut to the required height) can be taped together using T743-2.0 Black Masking Tape to form the back panel of the enclosure.

This enclosure was assembled on a 600 mm x 1200 mm aluminum breadboard (24" x 48" for imperial components), though other breadboard sizes are possible. The left and right doors are 500 mm and 600 mm (20" and 24") wide, respectively. Each door can be opened separately, allowing access to the breadboard inside the enclosure. We recommend building the doors and frame of the enclosure separately and then assembling them to complete the enclosure. The rails used in the doors and frame are connected via construction cubes with slotted corners, which help to prevent light leakage at the corners of the enclosure, and are secured using low-profile channel screws. Alternatively, for a faster solution, our quick corner cubes can be used. Our TB4 hardboard, which constitute the panels of the enclosure, can be cut to size using a utility knife; these pieces fit directly into the slots of the 25 mm rails and the counterbores of the cubes. The back panel is formed using two pieces of hardboard cut to the desired length and height and taped together using T743-2.0 Black Masking Tape (see the image to the right). Note that, for the imperial enclosure, black masking tape will also be needed to connect the 24" x 24" panels together along the sides and back of the enclosure.

A 25 mm rail is installed along the top of the enclosure to mount the doors and door hinges. This rail is attached by drilling through the top two frame rails; see the video above for details. For details on drilling and tapping a hole into the top frame rails for precise placement of the support rail, see the Construction Methods tab above.

The height of the enclosure can easily be customized to fit any application. For best results when adding doors to your enclosure, the total door height with connection cubes should match the enclosure height minus the bottom rails; otherwise, the door will overlap with the bottom rail. We recommend using 500 mm (20") and 525 mm (21") long rails for the door and enclosure, respectively.

For applications requiring a light-tight enclosure, our BFP1 black flocked self-adhesive paper can be used to seal gaps in the hinges of the enclosure.

Item #QtyDescription
Imperial Product List
XE25L48425 mm Square Construction Rail, 48" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
XE25L24725 mm Square Construction Rail, 24" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
XE25L21425 mm Square Construction Rail, 21" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
XE25L20725 mm Square Construction Rail, 20" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
XE25L12425 mm Square Construction Rail, 12" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
XE25H4Hinge for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25T32Low-Profile T-Nut, 1/4"-20 Tapped Hole, 10 Pack
MB24481Aluminum Breadboard 24" x 48" x 1/2", 1/4"-20 Taps
SH25LP3811/4"-20 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 3/8" Long, 100 Pack
TB43Black Hardboard, 24" x 24" (610 mm x 610 mm), 3/16" (4.76 mm) Thick, 3 Sheets
BBH11Breadboard Lifting Handles, Reinforced Polymer (Set of 2)
RM1S201" Construction Cube with Slotted Corners, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
T743-2.01High-Performance Black Masking Tape, 2" x 180' (50 mm x 55 m) Roll
T11987314.6 mm Drill Bit
Item #QtyDescription
Metric Product List
XE25L1200/M425 mm Square Construction Rail, 1200 mm Long, M6 Taps
XE25L600/M725 mm Square Construction Rail, 600 mm Long, M6 Taps
XE25L525/M425 mm Square Construction Rail, 525 mm Long, M6 Taps
XE25L500/M725 mm Square Construction Rail, 500 mm Long, M6 Taps
XE25L300/M425 mm Square Construction Rail, 300 mm Long, M6 Taps
XE25H4Hinge for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25T3/M2Low-Profile T-Nut, M6 x 1.0 Tapped Hole, 10 Pack
MB60120/M1Aluminum Breadboard, 600 mm x 1200 mm x 12.7 mm, M6 Taps
SH6M10LP1M6 x 1.0 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 10 mm Long, 100 Pack
TB43Black Hardboard, 24" x 24" (610 mm x 610 mm), 3/16" (4.76 mm) Thick, 3 Sheets
BBH11Breadboard Lifting Handles, Reinforced Polymer (Set of 2)
RM1S201" Construction Cube with Slotted Corners, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
T743-2.01High-Performance Black Masking Tape, 2" x 180' (50 mm x 55 m) Roll
T11987314.6 mm Drill Bit

a. This item requires cutting to form the panels of the enclosure. Multiple panels can be taped together to form the back panel.
b. To attach each handle, use two 1/4-20" (M6) cap screws and T-nuts.
c. For the imperial enclosure, black masking tape will also be needed to connect the 24" x 24" panels together along the sides and back of the enclosure.


Posted Comments:
Matthieu GRAU  (posted 2024-03-27 08:15:13.02)
It would be nice to have two option with this product : One with imperial screws and one with metric screws. Even in my cart, there is an automatic message saying I have metric and imperial products in the same time in my cart, and when I choose, "change to metric" then the message come back. Thanks for reading, Have a nice day.
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Counterbored Construction Cubes for 25 mm Rails

Low-Profile Channel Screw
Click to Enlarge

Low-Profile Screw in RM1G Construction Cube
Standard Cap Screw
Click to Enlarge

Standard Cap Screw in RM1G Construction Cube
RM1G Corner
Click to Enlarge
Three-Way 25 mm Rail Junction Using an RM1G Construction Cube
RM1S Corner
Click to Enlarge
RM1S Slotted Cube Securing a Hardboard Enclosure Wall
  • RM1G: Counterbored on Three Sides
  • RM1S: Counterbored on Three Sides and Slotted to Accommodate Panels
  • One-Piece Aluminum Construction for Excellent Rigidity
  • Parallel and Perpendicular to Within 0.002" (0.05 mm)

These Construction Cubes contain three 1/4" (M6) counterbores on adjacent faces. They can be connected to up to three rails by tightening our low-profile channel screws (sold separately) through the counterbores, as shown in the first two images to the right. The third and fourth images illustrate how a low-profile screw's shortened cap height prevents neighboring screws from interfering with each other. In addition, the RM1S cube has slotted corners to accept posterboard and hardboard walls for the construction of light-tight optical enclosures. Since both these cubes are machined from a single block of aluminum, they are ideal for constructions that need to be as sturdy as possible.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
RM1G Support Documentation
RM1G1" Construction Cube, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
$20.43
Today
RM1S Support Documentation
RM1S1" Construction Cube with Slotted Corners, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
$23.04
Today
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Quick Corner Cube for 25 mm Rails

Attachment of an XE25W3 Quick Corner Cube to a 25 mm Rail
XE25W3 Corner
Click to Enlarge
Three-Way 25 mm Rail Junction Using an XE25W3 Quick Corner Cube
  • Holds up to Three Rails at Right Angles
  • Made from High-Strength Reinforced Plastic
  • For Use with Low-Profile Channel Screws

The prongs on the faces of an XE25W3 Quick Corner Cube are positioned to fit into the four alignment holes on the end of a 25 mm rail. Because the prongs and the alignment holes form a tight fit, it may be difficult to insert the corner cube by hand. We therefore recommend using our low-profile channel screws (sold separately) to fasten the corner cube to the rail, as shown in the image and the animation to the right.

Although these corner cubes provide excellent results when building enclosures, they are not recommended in cases where rails are being used to support optomechanics. In these situations, please use the RM1G Construction Cube shown above, or consider the techniques shown in the Construction Methods tab.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
XE25W3 Support Documentation
XE25W3Quick Corner Cube for 25 mm Rails
$5.85
Today
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Right-Angle Brackets for 25 mm Rails

XE25A90 Reinforced Corner
Click to Enlarge

Reinforced Corner
XE25A90 as Breadboard Mount
Click to Enlarge

Enclosure Bolted to Optical Table
  • Brace 25 mm Rail Corners or Mount Rails Vertically
  • One-Piece Aluminum Construction for Excellent Rigidity
  • For Use with 1/4"-20 (M6) Cap Screws

The AB90H and XE25A90 Right-Angle Brackets can be used to fasten 25 mm rails to each other using a T-Nut (sold separately) or to an optical table. Both intended for use with 1/4"-20 (M6) cap screws and washers, the AB90H has a total of two 1/4" wide slots of lengths of 1" (25.4 mm) and 0.5" (12.7 mm), allowing for additional flexibility in positioning the rails on a breadboard, while the XE25A90 has two counterbored holes.

These brackets are ideal for fastening our optical enclosures to an optical table or breadboard.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AB90H Support Documentation
AB90HCustomer Inspired! Slim Right-Angle Bracket with Counterbored Slots
$30.58
Today
XE25A90 Support Documentation
XE25A90Right-Angle Bracket for 25 mm Rails
$32.08
Today
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Elbow Gusset Plates for 25 mm Rails

Gusset Plate for Construction Rails
Click to Enlarge

XE25GP Gusset Plate Connecting Two 25 mm Rails
Item # Rail 1 Rail 2 Recommended
# of Nut &
Screw Setsa
XE25GP 25 mm 25 mm 3
XE50GP2 50 mm 5
XE75GP2 75 mm 7
  • Connect Two Rails at a 90° Elbow
  • 1/8" (3.2 mm) Thick Anodized Aluminum
  • For Use with Low-Profile 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) Channel Screws and T-Nuts (Sold Separately; See Table to the Right for Details)

These gusset plates are used to create strong 90° elbows using our 25 mm, 50 mm, and 75 mm construction rails. They provide reinforcement similar to the right-angle brackets sold above but do not block the inner channels of the elbow joint, instead leaving them open for hardboard or plexiglass panels. Each gusset plate features mounting holes designed for use with low-profile 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) channel screws (10 mm max length) and matched T-nuts (both sold separately). When attaching rails of different sizes, we recommend mounting the smaller rail using multiple holes along the base of the gusset plate to provide additional rigidity, if possible.

To assemble, insert the screws into the gusset plate and loosely thread them into nuts on the back. Then slide the nuts into the rail channels and align the rail ends. With the rails aligned, tighten the channel screws.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
XE25GP Support Documentation
XE25GPElbow Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE25 Rail
$14.28
Today
XE50GP2 Support Documentation
XE50GP2Elbow Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE50 Rail
$18.67
Today
XE75GP2 Support Documentation
XE75GP2Elbow Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE75 Rail
$20.31
Today
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Tee Gusset Plates for 25 mm Rails

Gusset Plate for Construction Rails
Click to Enlarge

XE50GP4 Gusset Plate Connecting a 25 mm Rail to a 50 mm Rail
Item # End
Rail(s)
Center
Rail
Recommended
# of Nut &
Screw Setsa
XE25GP2 25 mm 25 mm 4
XE50GP4 50 mm 6
XE75GP5 75 mm 8
  • Connect Two or Three Rails in a Three-Way Junction
  • 1/8" (3.2 mm) Thick Anodized Aluminum
  • For Use with Low-Profile 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) Channel Screws and T-Nuts (Sold Separately; See Table to the Right for Details)

These gusset plates are used to create strong three-way junctions using our 25 mm, 50 mm, or 75 mm construction rails. They provide reinforcement similar to the elbow gusset plates sold above but with additional mounting holes to form a tee. Each gusset plate features mounting holes designed for use with low-profile 1/4"-20 (M6 x 1.0) channel screws (10 mm max length) and matched T-nuts (both sold separately). When attaching rails of different sizes, we recommend mounting the smaller rail using multiple holes along the base of the gusset plate to provide additional rigidity, if possible.

To assemble, insert the screws into the gusset plate and loosely thread them into nuts on the back. Then slide the nuts into the rail channels and align the rail ends. With the rails aligned, tighten the channel screws.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
XE25GP2 Support Documentation
XE25GP2Tee Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE25 Rail
$18.12
Today
XE50GP4 Support Documentation
XE50GP4Tee Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE50 Rail
$19.76
Today
XE75GP5 Support Documentation
XE75GP5Tee Gusset Plate for XE25 to XE75 Rail
$21.41
Today
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Black Hardboard and Posterboard

Close-Up of the TB4
Click to Enlarge
Close-Up of TB4
Enclosure with TB4 Panels
Click to Enlarge

Enclosure with TB4 Panels
  • Blocks Stray or Unwanted Light
  • Easily Shaped with a Utility Knife
  • TB5: 1/16" (1.6 mm) Thick, Solid Cardboard Panel
  • TB4: 3/16" (4.76 mm) Thick, Plastic-Coated Cardboard Panel with Foam Core

Thorlabs' black panels are an essential component of light-tight enclosures. Our TB5 Black Posterboard is 1/16" (1.6 mm) thick and ships in packages of five 20" x 30" (50.8 cm x 76.2 cm) panels. Simply score the panel with a utility knife and bend to form a light-tight corner.

In contrast, our TB4 Black Hardboard is 3/16" (4.76 mm) thick and ships in packages of three 24" x 24" (61.0 cm x 61.0 cm) panels. The increased thickness provides enhanced acoustic absorption, while the foam core (pictured to the right) helps it remain lightweight. We recommend using our 2" wide black masking tape for corners and other joints to eliminate the passage of light through those areas. This is the same hardboard used in our preconfigured optical enclosures.

Upon request, we can offer the TB4 hardboard in custom sizes up to 48" x 48" (121.9 cm x 121.9 cm) to customers in North America, or up to 44" x 32" (111.8 cm x 81.3 cm) elsewhere. Please contact Tech Sales for a quote. Thorlabs also offers a comprehensive selection of blackout materials.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
TB5 Support Documentation
TB5Black Posterboard, 20" x 30" (508 mm x 762 mm), 1/16" (1.6 mm) Thick, 5 Sheets
$54.96
Today
TB4 Support Documentation
TB4Black Hardboard, 24" x 24" (610 mm x 610 mm), 3/16" (4.76 mm) Thick, 3 Sheets
$76.03
Today
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Aluminum Enclosure Utility Panels

Damage Threshold Specificationsa
Type Damage Threshold
Pulsed 0.50 J/cm2 (532 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø0.504 mm, 200 shots)
0.90 J/cm2 (1064 nm, 10 ns, 10 Hz, Ø1.00 mm, 200 shots)
CW 23.6 W/cm (532 nm, Ø1.00 mm, 60 s exposure)
  • These panels are not intended to serve as permanent beam dumps. For such applications, Thorlabs offers a comprehensive family of beam traps and beam blocks.
Aluminum Utility Panel
Click to Enlarge
AEPU1 Being Inserted in an Aluminum Enclosure
  • Anodized Aluminum For Durability
  • Four Blank Connection Panels and One SM1-Threaded Through Hole
  • Eliminates Need to Drill Holes for Connectors
  • Rubber Anti-Vibration Dampeners Increase Stability
  • Available in 15" x 12" (375 mm x 300 mm) or 9" x 12" (225 mm x 300 mm) Sizes
  • 0.13" (3.2 mm) Thick

These aluminum enclosure utility panels feature four RBX-BLK1F blank connection panels and one SM1-threaded (1.035"-40) through hole covered by a removable SM1CP2M end cap. The blank connection panels can be removed for easy installation of our fiber or electrical connection panels. The SM1-threaded hole allows for a range of SM1-compatible components, like our lens tubes, to be installed. Designed to be used in an optical enclosure, each utility panel includes six rubber anti-vibration dampeners to increase durability and stability, eliminating rattling when the enclosure is moved.

These enclosure panels are designed to be used in our line of optical enclosures. The AEPU2(/M) enclosure panel is compatible with our XE25C7(/M) and XE25C8(/M) black hardboard enclosures, while the AEPU1(/M) enclosure panel is compatible with the XE25C9(/M) and XE25C9D(/M) black hardboard enclosures, as well as the XE25C10(/M) and XE25C10D(/M) Plexiglass enclosures. Note the AEPU1(/M) is already included with our XE25C11(/M), XE25C11D(/M), and XE25C11T(/M) aluminum enclosures.

These aluminum enclosure panels are offered in custom sizes and designs. Please send all inquiries to Tech Sales.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
AEPU1 Support Documentation
AEPU115" x 12" Aluminum Enclosure Utility Panel
$183.65
Today
AEPU2 Support Documentation
AEPU29" x 12" Aluminum Enclosure Utility Panel
$181.70
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
AEPU1/M Support Documentation
AEPU1/M375 mm x 300 mm Aluminum Enclosure Utility Panel
$183.65
Today
AEPU2/M Support Documentation
AEPU2/M225 mm x 300 mm Aluminum Enclosure Utility Panel
$181.70
Today
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Laser Safety Fabric Panels

Fabric Panel Item # Dimensions Compatible Enclosures
LPCE9 10.96" x 12.99" XE25C7
XE25C8
LPCE15 16.97" x 12.99" XE25C7
XE25C9
LPCE21 22.97" x 12.99" XE25C8
XE25C9
LPCE225/M 275.0 x 325.0 mm XE25C7/M
XE25C8/M
LPCE375/M 425.0 x 325.0 mm XE25C7/M
XE25C9/M
LPCE525/M 575.0 x 325.0 mm XE25C8/M
XE25C9/M
Laser Safety Curtain Panel
Click to Enlarge

View Imperial Product List
Item #QtyDescription
LPCE211Laser Safety Fabric Panel for 21" x 12" Enclosure Side
XE25C9121" x 15" x 12" (L x W x H) Enclosure with Black Hardboard Panels
MB18241Aluminum Breadboard, 18" x 24" x 1/2", 1/4"-20 Taps
LPCEF1Fastener Kit for Laser Safety Fabric Panels, 8-32 Threading
View Metric Product List
Item #QtyDescription
LPCE525/M1Laser Safety Fabric Panel for 525 x 300 mm Enclosure Side
XE25C9/M1525 mm x 375 mm x 300 mm (L x W x H) Enclosure with Black Hardboard Panels
MB4560/M1Aluminum Breadboard, 450 mm x 600 mm x 12.7 mm, M6 Taps
LPCEF/M1Fastener Kit for Laser Safety Fabric Panels, M4 Threading
LPCE21 Panel Used to Replace One Hardboard Side of an Optical Enclosure. The thumbscrews can be easily removed in order to access the inside of the enclosure.

These laser safety fabric panels are designed for the sides of our optical enclosures. Alternatively, the panels can be attached to custom-built enclosures using 25 mm rails. The table to the right shows compatible enclosures for each fabric panel.

All imperial panels are 12.99" tall and designed for an enclosure using vertical XE25L12 rails. All metric panels are 325.0 mm tall and designed for an enclosure using vertical XE25L300/M rails.

The fabric panels can be attached to the 25 mm rails using the LPCEF(/M) fasteners sold separately below.

*DISCLAIMER
This laser safety fabric has been tested by a third party using EN specifications; see the Certifications tab of the full web presentation for details. Due to manufacturing variances, mechanical wear, and laser damage, Thorlabs assumes no responsibility for laser material failure. Please consult your local laser safety specialist before purchasing to ensure that the fabric is suitable for your application. To minimize risk, inspect the material before each use and ensure that it is in excellent condition.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
LPCE9 Support Documentation
LPCE9Laser Safety Fabric Panel for 9" x 12" Enclosure Side
$72.45
Today
LPCE15 Support Documentation
LPCE15Laser Safety Fabric Panel for 15" x 12" Enclosure Side
$114.17
Today
LPCE21 Support Documentation
LPCE21Laser Safety Fabric Panel for 21" x 12" Enclosure Side
$120.76
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
LPCE225/M Support Documentation
LPCE225/MLaser Safety Fabric Panel for 225 x 300 mm Enclosure Side
$79.04
Today
LPCE375/M Support Documentation
LPCE375/MLaser Safety Fabric Panel for 375 x 300 mm Enclosure Side
$105.39
Today
LPCE525/M Support Documentation
LPCE525/MLaser Safety Fabric Panel for 525 x 300 mm Enclosure Side
$121.86
Today
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Fasteners for Laser Safety Fabric Panels

Installing a Fabric Panel with LPCEF(/M) Hardware
  • Attach Laser Safety Fabric Panels to 25 mm Rail Channels
  • Each LPCEF(/M) Kit Includes:
    • Seven 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Thumbscrews
    • Seven 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) T-Nuts
    • Seven 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Setscrews
  • Replacement 8-32 (M4 x 0.7) Thumbscrews Available [Item # LPCET(/M)]

The LPCEF(/M) fastener kit contains seven sets of thumbscrews, T-nuts, and setscrews. One fastener kit is enough to affix one laser safety fabric panel to the side of a compatible enclosure. Please see the manual for instructions.

The setscrews can be tightened using a 5/64" (2.0 mm) hex key or balldriver, while the thumbscrews do not have a hex socket.

Replacement thumbscrews for the fastener kit are also available in packs of 10.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
LPCEF Support Documentation
LPCEFFastener Kit for Laser Safety Fabric Panels, 8-32 Threading
$46.10
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LPCET Support Documentation
LPCET8-32 Thumbscrews, Qty. 10
$16.03
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+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
LPCEF/M Support Documentation
LPCEF/MFastener Kit for Laser Safety Fabric Panels, M4 Threading
$46.10
Today
LPCET/M Support Documentation
LPCET/MM4 Thumbscrews, Qty. 10
$16.03
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Hinge and Lid Stop for 25 mm Rail Enclosures

Hinge and Lid Stops
Click to Enlarge
Open Hinge Being Caught by Lid Stop
View Imperial Product List
Item #QtyDescription
RM1G21" Construction Cube, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
XE25H1Hinge for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25LS1Lid Stop for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25L09325 mm Square Construction Rail, 9" Long, 1/4"-20 Taps
SH25LP3811/4"-20 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 3/8" Long, 100 Pack
View Metric Product List
Item #QtyDescription
RM1G21" Construction Cube, Three 1/4" (M6) Counterbored Holes
XE25LS1Lid Stop for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25H1Hinge for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25L225/M325 mm Square Construction Rail, 225 mm Long, M6 Taps
SH6M10LP1M6 x 1.0 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 10 mm Long, 100 Pack

Click to Enlarge
Back of XE25H Hinge
  • Build Lids that Swing Open and Closed
  • Lid Stops Allow Hands-Free Operation in Confined Spaces
  • Installed Using Rail Channels

The XE25H Hinge is a high-strength, molded plastic hinge that creates a cover that smoothly opens and closes. It is held in the rail channel by four low-profile channel screws and four T-Nuts (all included) that fasten with a 3 mm balldriver. Please note that the closed hinge leaves a gap between the two rails to which it is attached, resulting in an opening that is not light tight without further modification.

The XE25LS Lid Stop is an anodized aluminum backstop that limits the travel of a lid to a 120° arc, holding the lid open and allowing hands-free operation inside the enclosure. It is ideal for setups with limited space or other situations where a fully open lid is not desirable. The XE25LS attaches to the rail channel using a T-Nut (not included) and is packaged with a 1/4"-20 cap screw, an M6 cap screw, and a washer.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
XE25H Support Documentation
XE25HHinge for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
$12.36
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XE25LS Support Documentation
XE25LSLid Stop for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
$8.62
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Sliding Door Kit

Click to Enlarge
Engraved dots indicate the widened channels.
  • Kit for Constructing Sliding Doors Compatible with 25 mm Rail Optical Enclosures
  • 21" x 12" (525 mm x 300 mm) Rail Assembly
  • Doors Made of TB4 Hardboard to Block Stray or Unwanted Light
  • Some Assembly Required
  • Compatible with the XE25C9(/M) Optical Enclosure

The XE25DK1(/M) Sliding Door Kit allows for the integration of sliding doors or a barrier into an existing optical enclosure. This kit uses 21" (525 mm) long and 12" (300 mm) long rails, resulting in an overall 23" x 13" (584 mm x 325 mm) frame. The frame is shipped with the rails assembled; the door panels, handles, and door guide must be added during final assembly. Holes are pre-drilled for quick installation of the handles.

Please note that the rails and cubes included in this kit are not identical to our stock items. Each rail includes a widened channel over twice the thickness of TB4 panels to allow for each panel to slide over the other. The widened rail channels are indicated with engravings, as seen in the image to the right. For a complete enclosure assembly that includes the doors from this kit, please see the XE25C9D(/M) enclosure.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
XE25DK1 Support Documentation
XE25DK121" x 12" Sliding Door Kit for 25 mm Rails
$199.00
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
XE25DK1/M Support Documentation
XE25DK1/M525 mm x 300 mm Sliding Door Kit for 25 mm Rails
$199.00
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Door Opener Kit for 25 mm Rail Enclosures

Hinge and Lid Stops
Click to Enlarge
View Imperial Product List
Item #QtyDescription
XE25GSK1Door Opener Kit for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25C11D121" x 15" x 12" (L x W x H) Aluminum Enclosure with Hinged L-Shaped Door
MB18241Aluminum Breadboard, 18" x 24" x 1/2", 1/4"-20 Taps
View Metric Product List
Item #QtyDescription
XE25GSK1Door Opener Kit for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25C11D/M1525 mm x 375 mm x 300 mm (L x W x H) Aluminum Enclosure with Hinged L-Shaped Door
MB4560/M1Aluminum Breadboard, 450 mm x 600 mm x 12.7 mm, M6 Taps
XE25C11D Enclosure Lid Being Held Open by an XE25GSK Kit
  • Holds Enclosure Lid Open at 90°
  • Easy Installation Using Rail Channels
  • Each XE25GSK Kit Includes:
    • Two Gas Piston Assemblies
    • Eight XE25T1 Drop-In T-Nuts
    • Eight SH25LP38 1/4"-20 Low-Profile Channel Screws
    • One 1/8" Hex Key

The XE25GSK Door Opener Kit for 25 mm Rail Enclosures holds the lid of an enclosure open at 90°. Each gas spring attaches to the rail channel using four XE25T1 Drop-In T-Nuts, two brackets, and four 1/4"-20 low-profile screws that fasten with a 1/8" hex key (all included). Each kit comes with two gas springs to securely hold the lid open for hands-free operation inside the enclosure and is ideal for setups where a fully open lid is not desirable or possible due to limited space. If there are additional space constraints, we recommend using the XE25LB Locking Bracket (sold below) as a lower profile option.

Installation Instructions
To create the configuration to the right, mount the body end bracket up against the front construction cube on the enclosure rail using the included hex key. Mount the rod end bracket against the rear gusset plate on the door. Press the rod end of the gas spring socket
onto the ball stud of the rod end bracket. Lift the enclosure door until the body end socket of the gas spring lines up with the
ball stud on the body end bracket. Press the body end of the gas spring socket onto the ball stud of the body end bracket, and repeat the previous steps for the second gas spring in the kit. A Quick Start Guide card with detailed installation instructions is included with each kit.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
XE25GSK Support Documentation
XE25GSKDoor Opener Kit for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
$183.60
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Locking Bracket for 25 mm Rail Enclosures

Enclosure Lid Opened with a Bracket
Click for Enlarge
View Imperial Product List
Item #QtyDescription
XE25LB1Locking Bracket for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25C11D121" x 15" x 12" (L x W x H) Aluminum Enclosure with Hinged L-Shaped Door
MB18241Aluminum Breadboard, 18" x 24" x 1/2", 1/4"-20 Taps
View Metric Product List
Item #QtyDescription
XE25LB1Locking Bracket for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
XE25C11D/M1525 mm x 375 mm x 300 mm (L x W x H) Aluminum Enclosure with Hinged L-Shaped Door
MB4560/M1Aluminum Breadboard, 450 mm x 600 mm x 12.7 mm, M6 Taps
When the lid of the enclosure is opened, the pin on one side of the bracket snaps into the hole in the wedged surface on the other side of the bracket to lock the lid in place.
Bracket Pieces
Click to Enlarge
The two pieces of the bracket interlock to hold open the enclosure lid.
XE25LB Brakcet Secured to an Enclosure Lid
Click to Enlarge
Engravings on the bracket pieces provide a guide for alignment during installation.
  • Holds Enclosure Lid Open
  • Compact Footprint
  • Engraved Lines to Assist with Alignment During Installation

The XE25LB Locking Bracket for 25 mm Rail Enclosures holds the lid of an enclosure open in a set position. The bracket is composed of two interlocking pieces, one of which should be mounted to the hinged edge of the door frame and the other to the rail of the enclosure frame immediately behind. Each piece is engraved with a white line to assist with alignment, as shown in the image to the lower left. The bracket can be secured to the 25 mm rails via four SH25LP38 (SH6M8LP) cap screws and four drop-in T-Nuts (screws and T-nuts not included).

To install, secure the half of the bracket with the silver knob to the outer rail of the enclosure frame, behind the door frame. Install the second half of the bracket to the rail that forms the edge of the door frame, positioning it so that the engraved lines on the two halves of the bracket are aligned as seen in the image to the lower left. The bracket can be installed close to the gusset plate at the edge of the door for easy access (see photo to the right).

The bracket uses a spring-loaded plunger to lock the lid into place. Once installed, open the lid of the enclosure until the two pieces of the bracket snap together. This indicates that the pin on the end of the plunger has engaged with the hole in the other half of the bracket to hold the door open. To unlock the bracket so that the enclosure can be closed, keep one hand on the lid to support it and pull the spring plunger knob. Please note that once the knob is pulled, there is nothing holding the door open; a hand should be kept on the lid to prevent it from slamming down and causing damage to the enclosure. 

Note that the spring-loaded plunger knob is designed to be pulled away from the bracket to disengage the pin and should not be rotated; forcing the knob to rotate may cause damage to the bracket.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
XE25LB Support Documentation
XE25LBLocking Bracket for 25 mm Rail Enclosures
$163.20
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Enclosure Handles

Hinge and Lid Stops
Click to Enlarge

Closeup of Breadboard Handle Mounted onto a 25 mm Rail
Hinge and Lid Stops
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Breadboard Handle Mounted onto a 25 mm Rail at the Base of a Custom Optical Enclosure
  • Attach Handles to Rails
  • Easily Open and Close Optical Enclosures

BBH1 Handles can be attached to optical enclosure rails for simplified transport and movement. As shown to the right, handles can be placed on an enclosure door, allowing easy opening and closing. These polymer handles are reinforced with glass fiber and are rated up to 250 kg (550 lbs) when properly installed. The two through holes allow the handles to be attached to rails using T-Nuts and standard 1/4"-20 or M6 cap screws (each sold separately). These handles can also be directly attached to breadboards, simplifying their removal from frames and ScienceDesks.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
BBH1 Support Documentation
BBH1Breadboard Lifting Handles, Reinforced Polymer (Set of 2)
$17.35
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Cover Plate for 25 mm Rails

XE25C
Click to Enlarge
25 mm Rail Without and With XE25C Cover Plate
  • Hide Exposed Rail Ends
  • Beveled Corners Match Beveled Edges of 25 mm Rail

These 1 mm thick cover plates are designed to hide an exposed extrusion end. To maintain a minimal physical profile, we recommend the use of Low-Profile Channel Screws to hold the cover plate in place. These screws are sold below.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
XE25C Support Documentation
XE25CCover Plate for 25 mm Rails
$3.30
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Low-Profile Channel Screws

Item # Threading Thread Length Hex Head Height Quantity Material
SH25LP38 1/4"-20 0.38" (9.7 mm) 1/8" 0.13" (3.2 mm) 100 Steel,
Black
Oxide
Finish
SH25LP63 0.63" (15.9 mm) 50
SH6M8LP M6 x 1.0 8 mm (0.31") 4 mm 4 mm (0.16") 50
SH6M10LP 10 mm (0.39") 100
SH6M16LP 16 mm (0.63") 50
Low-Profile Channel Screw
Click to Enlarge

Low-Profile Screw in RM1G Construction Cube
Standard Cap Screw
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Standard Cap Screw in RM1G Construction Cube

Our Low-Profile Channel Screws have a reduced cap head height relative to standard screws, permitting them to be used in tight spaces. In particular, they are recommended when neighboring screws are at a right angle and in close proximity, as in our XE25W3 Corner Cube or RM1G and RM1S Construction Cubes.

Shown to the right are a standard cap screw and a low-profile channel screw installed in an RM1G cube. The low-profile screw's shortened cap height prevents neighboring screws from interfering with each other.

The head of each screw also fits into XE rail channels for alternate construction methods, as outlined here.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Imperial Price Available
SH25LP38 Support Documentation
SH25LP381/4"-20 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 3/8" Long, 100 Pack
$27.56
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SH25LP63 Support Documentation
SH25LP631/4"-20 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 5/8" Long, 50 Pack
$22.02
Today
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Metric Price Available
SH6M8LP Support Documentation
SH6M8LPM6 x 1.0 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 8 mm Long, 50 Pack
$18.41
Today
SH6M10LP Support Documentation
SH6M10LPM6 x 1.0 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 10 mm Long, 100 Pack
$27.56
Today
SH6M16LP Support Documentation
SH6M16LPM6 x 1.0 Low-Profile Channel Screw, 16 mm Long, 50 Pack
$22.02
Today
Last Edited: Sep 25, 2013 Author: Dan Daranciang