Middle Atlantic Blank Cover Plate - AL5246-B

Middle Atlantic AL5246-B Blank Cover Plate

Overview

The Middle Atlantic AL5246-B is a blank cover plate designed to fill unused rack unit openings in Middle Atlantic enclosures and compatible 19-inch EIA-standard racks. Installing AL5246-B panels in open bays is a straightforward measure that blocks bypass airflow — hot air recirculating through empty slots rather than passing through equipment — and keeps dust, debris, and rodents from entering the rack interior. In security and AV equipment rooms, open rack bays are among the most common causes of thermal issues that shorten equipment life; a properly blanked rack runs cooler without any change to cooling infrastructure.

Compatibility

The AL5246-B is designed for use with Middle Atlantic rack enclosures and is compatible with standard 19-inch EIA-310 rail systems used across the security and IT infrastructure market. It fits Middle Atlantic's WRK, BGR, WMRK, PD, and similar rack series where open 1U or multi-U bays require coverage. It is also mechanically compatible with any third-party rack cabinet or enclosure that follows the EIA-310 19-inch mounting standard. If you are planning a complete rack build, pair blanking panels with a structured approach to rack power management and cable routing to maximize both airflow and serviceability.

Installation Notes

Mount directly into the rack's cage nut or threaded strip using standard 10-32 or 12-24 rack screws depending on the rail type. No tools beyond a standard Phillips screwdriver are required. Verify the U-height of the open bay before ordering — confirm whether the gap requires a 1U, 2U, or other size panel to achieve a flush fit with adjacent equipment.