When discussing humidity management inside electrical enclosures, one of the fundamental parameters that should not be overlooked is the dew point. This concept is crucial not only for preventing the formation of condensation that can damage electronic components but also for ensuring the maximum efficiency and reliability of the system. In this article, we will explore what is meant by the dew point, how it forms, and why it is so important for safeguarding devices.
What is the dew point?
The dew point is the temperature at which moist air must be cooled for the water vapor in it to begin condensing into water droplets. In other words, it is the moment when the humidity in the air reaches a level of saturation that causes it to transform into droplets. This phenomenon occurs because, when the temperature decreases, the air can no longer hold all of the moisture as vapor, and part of it is deposited as liquid water.
For a practical example, this is what happens when you take a cold container out of the refrigerator in a warm and humid environment: the surface becomes “wet” because the warm air around it cools quickly upon contact with the object, causing the ambient humidity to condense.
Why is the dew point important in electrical enclosures?
In electrical enclosures, condensation can have damaging effects. When moisture collects as water droplets on electronic components, it increases the risk of short circuits, corrosion, and other types of damage. This can severely impact system efficiency, leading to interruptions and malfunctions. It is therefore essential to keep temperature and humidity levels under control to prevent the dew point from being reached within the enclosure, especially in environments with significant temperature fluctuations, also heating the air inside.
What factors influence the dew point?
As you might guess, the dew point is mainly influenced by two factors: the temperature and the relative humidity of the air.
Thus, the higher the relative humidity, the higher the temperature at which the dew point is reached. Conversely, with low humidity levels, the dew point will be at lower temperatures. It’s possible to calculate the relationship between relative humidity, temperature, and dew point using the Magnus-Tetens formula, which provides precise results (with an uncertainty of 0.35°C) for temperatures between -40°C and 50°C.
Using a calculator, for example, we can say that:
- At 20°C with a relative humidity of 60%, the dew point will be reached at 12°C.
- However, at 20°C with a relative humidity of 90%, the air is already saturated with water vapor, so only 18.31°C is needed to see it turn into condensation.
For electrical enclosures, where internal and external conditions can vary significantly, it’s necessary to pay attention not only to temperature but also to humidity levels to ensure that condensation does not occur. As in the refrigerator container example, the walls of enclosures are often more exposed to temperature swings, especially in industrial environments where heating or cooling may vary significantly throughout the day.
How to prevent condensation formation?
Managing the dew point and, therefore, condensation is a complex issue, but there are technological solutions to help prevent this phenomenon. Once the thermal balance of the cabinet has been calculated and the specific requirements of the installation environment are understood, the adoption of hygrostats and anti-condensation heaters may become necessary, as these devices help monitor and control the humidity and temperature levels inside the electrical enclosure.
Hygrostats, in particular, monitor humidity and activate heaters when necessary to keep the temperature above the dew point, thereby preventing condensation. This approach is especially useful in environments where humidity and temperature can vary significantly, such as outdoor applications, ensuring the protection of electronic components from potential condensation-related damage.
Fandis solutions for humidity and temperature control
To address these needs, Fandis offers a range of innovative solutions. The Orangis line of hygrostats, in combination with the Fucsis range of anti-condensation heaters, provides an effective solution for keeping humidity and temperature levels under control within electrical enclosures, thereby preventing the formation of condensation. The hygrostat monitors humidity and activates the heater when necessary, maintaining the internal temperature above the dew point and ensuring a safe environment for components.
Alternatively, for those seeking even more advanced control, Fandis offers Sensis. This device provides monitoring and control capabilities, even remotely, by collecting real-time data on temperature and humidity and enabling quick interventions to restore ideal conditions within the enclosure, activating fans and/or heaters in case of critical conditions. With the IIoT Sensis device, it’s possible not only to prevent condensation formation but also to optimize the thermal management of the electrical enclosure and maintenance operations.
Discover more about Fandis solutions for humidity and temperature management in electrical enclosures. Browse our blog, visit our website fandis.com, or contact us for more information!
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