Overview

The Vimar VMV51012 is a surface-mounted consumer unit enclosure with a transparent door that swings on a horizontal hinge, sized for 12+1 DIN modules and rated IP55. The housing measures 285 mm wide x 200 mm high x 119 mm deep, with an inner depth of 118 mm, so you can plan clearances for wiring and modular devices before you drill any holes.

On a boat, this style of enclosure is typically used to keep DIN-rail breakers, RCDs, fuse holders, and terminals protected in spaces that see dust, damp air, and occasional spray. The clear door makes it easy to check the position of protective devices at a glance without opening the front. There is no lock, so it suits installations where quick access matters and the panel is already located in a controlled area.

Inside, it uses a DIN rail and it comes with screw caps for double insulation. It is also prepared for fitting an earth terminal block support, and it can be adjoined to another consumer unit using joining accessories when you need a wider board.

Key features

• IP55 protection level to help keep out dust and water spray in typical onboard compartments
• 12+1 module capacity on a single row (12 modular spacings)
• Transparent door with a horizontal hinge for quick visual checks and straightforward access
• Closed front with no lock for fast entry during troubleshooting or routine checks
• Plastic enclosure in grey (RAL 7035) that fits cleanly in technical spaces
• Built-in DIN rail for standard modular components
• Overall size: 285 mm (W) x 200 mm (H) x 119 mm (D); inner depth: 118 mm
• Prepared for an earth terminal block support and joinable to expand the assembly

Compatibility and fit

This enclosure is laid out for DIN-rail modular devices, with a 12-module wide row and extra space as indicated by the 12+1 format. Before ordering components, check the depth of any devices you plan to install and leave room for cable bend radius, especially if you are bringing in larger conductors. The inner depth figure is useful when you are working inside a console, locker, or bulkhead space with tight clearance behind the door.

Installation and setup

Because it is surface-mounted, installation is usually a matter of fixing the housing to a flat bulkhead and then routing cables through properly sealed entries. Use cable glands or fittings that match your wiring and the environment, and keep drip loops where cables run down to the box so water does not track inside. On boats that see vibration, use appropriate backing and fasteners for the mounting surface and re-check fixing points after the first few trips.

Use on board

This is a good match when you want a tidy, enclosed place to group circuit protection and terminals in a damp locker, a technical cupboard, a console, or a sheltered cockpit area. It also suits refits where you are adding a dedicated sub-panel and you prefer surface mounting to avoid cutting into finished joinery.

Maintenance and care

Keep the door and sealing surfaces clean so the closure stays consistent. After salt exposure, a fresh-water wipe-down and a quick check for grit around the door edge helps the enclosure continue to close properly. During routine electrical inspections, verify the door hinges freely and that internal wiring is not pushing against the cover.