The Challenge
Chemical factories, wastewater treatment plants, and water treatment facilities usually employ processes that result in chemical by-products such as chlorine or hydrogen sulfide gas. When combined with constant moisture, these contaminants create a highly toxic environment that quickly deteriorates metal enclosures (and the equipment within), forcing early repairs or expensive replacement.
Corrosive gases generally cannot be removed by filtration methods, which precludes using forced convection cooling devices such as filter fans and centrifugal blowers. While there are scrubbing techniques that can rid ambient air of corrosives, they are complex, costly, and often ineffective.
The Solution
When cooling electrical enclosures in corrosive environments, it is critical to isolate the sensitive components from caustic airborne contaminants. The ideal solution usually involves using an enclosure air conditioner or heat exchanger with a closed-loop cooling design. Closed-loop cooling devices consist of two separate circulation systems within a single unit. One system recirculates clean cooling air through the electronics within the sealed enclosure while the other discharges the heat removed from the cabinet.
Regardless of the thermal management device selected, it must be constructed of appropriate corrosion-resistant materials or treated with a specialized coating to ensure long, trouble-free operation within corrosive atmospheres.
Kooltronic offers a selection of NEMA rated electrical cabinet cooling products specialized for corrosive environments. Should our standard product offering not meet your requirements, our thermal management experts will work with you to develop a custom-tailored solution to fit your unique specifications.
