Rittal Addresses Condensation Issues in Electrical Enclosures
Rittal provides guidance on preventing condensation within electrical enclosures, a common issue that can lead to corrosion and short circuits. Heating and evaporation are presented as key solutions.
Rittal, a supplier of industrial automation solutions, has detailed methods for preventing condensation inside electrical enclosures. Moisture buildup is identified as a significant cause of equipment malfunction, potentially leading to corrosion and short circuits that compromise reliable industrial production.
Condensation occurs when warm, humid air meets a cooler surface, causing the water vapor to exceed its dew point and turn into liquid. In enclosures, heat generated by electronic components can raise internal air temperature. When this warm air contacts cooler enclosure walls, condensation forms. This risk is amplified in environments with high ambient humidity or if enclosure seals are inadequate.
Rittal suggests two primary strategies. The first involves active cooling, such as using their Blue e+ series cooling units. These systems draw warm air from the enclosure, cool it, and collect the resulting condensate. The condensate is then evaporated using a PTC heating element, and the returned air is dehumidified.
The second approach is enclosure heating, which maintains the internal temperature consistently above the dew point. This is particularly effective in areas with low or fluctuating external temperatures, especially when the thermal load from internal components is minimal. Energy efficiency can be enhanced by using a hygrostat to activate the heater only when humidity levels approach the dew point.
The choice between heating and cooling depends on the enclosure's specific application and location. Locations with low or variable outdoor temperatures may favor heating, while cooling units are recommended for applications prone to overheating.