Ventilation is often discussed, but heating the electrical panel can also become necessary. Maintaining the internal temperature within certain values ensures the correct operation of devices and prevents damage to sensitive components. In this article, we explore when and why heating electrical panels is necessary, and how anti-condensation resistors play a key role in this context.
External temperatures below the minimum allowed
In outdoor environments where temperatures fall below the minimum limit allowed for the correct operation of internal components, heating becomes crucial. Metallic cabinets, more sensitive to climatic variations than those made of ABS, can suffer irreparable damage if not kept within certain thermal parameters.
Condensation prevention
Condensation forms when the temperature rapidly drops below the dew point. This phenomenon can be attributed to climatic variations, humidity, specific operational conditions, or rapid temperature fluctuations, especially in outdoor applications. Installation environments subject to frequent rain, cold seasons, or extreme locations, such as deserts with significant temperature variations and high-humidity regions, are often prone to this issue.
Harmful consequences of moisture and condensation in electrical panels
Moisture and condensation can lead to serious detrimental consequences in electrical panels, including:
- Short circuits due to water’s conductive properties.
- Premature oxidation of electrical contacts.
- Corrosion of metallic components, compromising structure and safety.
- Reduced operational lifespan of electronic devices.
How anti-condensation heaters work
Anti-condensation resistors come into play when external temperatures threaten to compromise the correct functioning of internal components in the electrical panel. They play a dual role: preventive heating and preventing capillarity transudation, especially in metallic cabinets exposed to temperature variations between the interior and exterior.
By maintaining the internal temperature of the electrical panel above the critical threshold, these resistors prevent the formation of cold air that would otherwise turn into condensation/water.
Fandis’ Fucsis anti-condensation heaters
The H-series heaters in Fandis’ Fucsis range feature an aluminum heatsink containing PTC heating elements. Based on polycrystalline ceramic, these elements regulate their resistance by reaching the “Curie point” to maintain a stable temperature. Connected to the power supply, the heater produces heat exchange thanks to its finned heatsink. Available with various connection options, these heaters can be controlled by thermostats, hygrostats, or thermal management devices like Sensis to maintain ideal temperatures in the panel. Additionally, models with a touch-proof plastic enclosure are available to prevent burns.
To find out more about all our enclosure products, keep browsing our blog, visit our website fandis.com or send an email to support@fandis.com. Our staff will answer you as soon as possible.
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