A dry box is a type of storage container that covers a wide range of box types. There are regular plastic dry boxes for tools and other objects, desiccant boxes for laboratory equipment storage and electronic dry boxes for valuable objects or substances that need to be constantly dry. As its name implies, a dry box is made to keep objects dry, but each type is made for a specific type of object.
The simplest of dry boxes is a plastic dry box with a basic latch or lock to keep the box closed. Such a box is moderately durable and has no electrical components, so only water and some moisture are kept out. This box is made to house objects that can’t be around water but don’t need to be rigorously maintained. Most often, this type of box is used for tools such as wrenches and screwdrivers.
Plastic dry boxes are made in many different molds, each of which fits certain needs. Some are made to be extra watertight and are used for fishing and boating. Others are made for keeping dry ice or as an ice cooler. While each mold is made for a certain type of object, most can be used for other purposes.
A desiccator, or desiccant dry box, is made for electronics and laboratory equipment that are highly sensitive to moisture. The materials used to make a desiccator create an environment that has a very low moisture level. This low level of moisture means that any moisture that comes near the desiccator is instantly drawn out so it cannot affect anything held within the dry box. This type of box also keeps anything inside from rusting and keeps fungus from developing.
An electronic dry box uses electronic components to keep objects dry. These are used in research facilities, universities and pharmacies. Basic units ensure there is no moisture or oxygen in the dry box. More complex units are able to keep out other substances, such as nitrogen. Complex units are mostly used for very sensitive equipment that cannot be touched by any substances without causing damage.
Along with keeping objects dry, a dry box serves another important purpose in keeping an object safe. The box is made with a durable material, usually plastic or metal, that is intended to keep an object from getting damaged. Dry boxes are never made from soft materials, which would offer little protection for the objects inside.