We have all experienced a foggy morning when the dew covers the earth like a glistening blanket. This natural phenomenon occurs when warm, humid, daytime air yields to cooler nighttime temperatures. At a certain temperature, the water vapor in the air condenses into a liquid – this is what’s known as the “dew point.” When the dew point is reached, the cooler air cannot hold the moisture it carries, and releases this moisture through condensation. Since water is heavier than air, it settles to the ground and forms on any surface that is cooler than the dew point temperature.
Components housed in electrical enclosures are especially at risk to the dangers of condensation. During normal operation, the ambient air temperature combined with the heat produced from working components will typically keep the component temperatures above the dew point. While the need for cooling during peak operation is still necessary in most cases, the threat of condensation greatly increases during off-peak hours – when equipment is shut down and ambient temperatures drop. With each day, the continued cycle of condensation and evaporation of moisture will begin to corrode sensitive electronics and ultimately compromise the equipment.
With the use of enclosure heaters, heat can be introduced to keep temperatures above the dew point. This is the case for both open and closed-loop applications. Heaters for enclosures are economical, offer a low start-up cost, take up minimal space, and they are offered in a wide range of capacities. Additionally, enclosure heaters are available in a number of operational styles, such as Fan Heaters and PTC Heaters.
Kooltronic’s Enclosure Cooling Specialists are standing by to assist you with any questions regarding enclosure heaters, electrical cabinet air conditioners, or custom enclosure cooling solutions.
