Knockout Panel

Definition

A knockout panel is a section of a wire partition or security cage panel that’s pre-scored or perforated so it can be removed on-site to create an opening for conduit, wiring, sprinkler lines, or ductwork, without cutting into the surrounding mesh or frame.

What Does Knockout Panel Mean?

Wire cages and partitions frequently need to share space with building utilities: sprinkler heads passing through machine guarding, conduit runs feeding a tool crib, data cabling threading through a server cage. Knockouts let installers handle that without custom fabrication or field-cutting the mesh after the fact.

Common uses include electrical conduit runs through pallet rack enclosures, sprinkler heads through machine guarding panels, and cable pass-throughs in data center cages.

Key Characteristics

Pre-scored or perforated — designed for planned, one-time removal
Preserves the surrounding mesh — avoids field-cutting that can weaken a panel
Best planned early — easiest to specify during layout, harder to retrofit cleanly
Sizing matters for security — oversized openings should be avoided on high-security enclosures

Why Knockout Panel Matters at the Dock

Because wire partition systems are typically built to custom heights, widths, depths, and compartment layouts, utility pass-through needs like these are usually easiest to resolve at the design stage of a project rather than after installation.

Key Control System

Facility Layout Planning

Access Panel

FAQs

Can knockout panels be added after installation?

It’s more straightforward to plan them at the design stage. Retrofitting typically means field-cutting the mesh, which isn’t always ideal.

Do knockout panels weaken the security of a cage?

Not when sized appropriately for their intended utility, but oversized openings should be avoided on security-sensitive enclosures like tool cribs or high-value storage.

Are knockout panels standard on every wire partition system?

No. They’re typically specified as part of a custom configuration based on the utilities running through or near the enclosure.

What’s the difference between a knockout panel and an access panel?

A knockout is pre-scored for planned, one-time removal, while an access panel is a hinged or removable section meant for repeated maintenance access.

Do data center wire cages commonly need knockouts?

Yes, most often for cable routing and airflow management.

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