Enclosure Heaters
Enclosure heaters are devices that are used to maintain a consistent temperature inside electrical enclosures. They are particularly useful in environments where the temperature may drop below the operating range of the equipment, such as in outdoor locations or in unheated buildings.
Enclosure heaters are available in a variety of types and sizes, including convection heaters, fan heaters, radiant heaters, and resistance heaters. They can be powered by electricity or by other heat sources, such as steam or hot water.
When selecting an enclosure heater, it is important to consider factors such as the size and temperature range of the enclosure, the power requirements of the heater, and any relevant safety regulations or standards. For example, hazardous location heaters must be designed to meet specific safety standards to prevent the risk of fire or explosion.
Enclosure heaters typically have a compact design and are installed inside the enclosure. They may come with an aluminum mounting plate for panel mount or many heaters are now DIN rail mountable.
One important consideration when using enclosure heaters is the potential for condensation to form inside the enclosure. If the temperature inside the enclosure is too warm relative to the ambient temperature outside, moisture may condense on the surfaces of the enclosure and the equipment inside. This can lead to corrosion, damage to electrical components, or other issues. To provide condensation control, it is often necessary to use a combination of enclosure heaters and ventilation or dehumidification systems to maintain a proper balance of temperature and relative humidity inside the enclosure.
FAQs
What are silicone rubber enclosure heaters?
Silicone rubber enclosure heaters are a type of flexible heating element designed for use in electrical equipment enclosures. One of the advantages of silicone rubber enclosure heaters is their flexibility, which allows them to be easily conformed to the shape of the enclosure or the equipment inside.
Do hazardous location heaters adequately provide freeze protection from low temperatures?
Hazardous location heaters can provide freeze protection for equipment in hazardous locations, but it is important to select the appropriate heater for the specific application and operating conditions. In some cases, alternative freeze protection methods such as insulation or dehumidification may be more appropriate.
What does it mean if enclosure heaters are RoHS compliant?
If enclosure heaters are ROHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant, it means that the heater meets the requirements of the European Union's Directive 2011/65/EU, also known as the RoHS Directive. The RoHS Directive restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment sold in the European Union.
What kind of enclosure heaters are available for small enclosures in hazardous areas?
There are several types of enclosure heaters that are available for small enclosures in hazardous areas, including: convection heaters, fan heaters and radiant heaters.
Common modifications or accessories that are used to enhance electrical cabinets
Lighting kits. Lighting kits are often used in outdoor applications. There are many different styles of lighting kits that can be used, but LEDs have become the preferred lighting solution in the past several years.
Pressure switches. Pressure switches operate on a spring and react to the cabinet door opening and closing. They can be used for lights, intrusions alarms and exhaust fans.
Passive air vents. Passive air vents allow natural air circulation to flow through a cabinet providing proper ventilation.
Enclosure fans. Enclosure air fans are used when more ventilation is required. The size of the fan will depend on the size of the enclosure as well as the amount of air that needs to be circulated.
Air conditioners. Air conditioners are used when ambient air circulation is inadequate to cool the cabinet. The air conditioner size will depend on the enclosure size, ambient air temperature and heat generated within the cabinet.
Heaters. Heaters are used when a cabinet is located in areas that may be exposed to cold temperatures.
Locking mechanisms. Locking mechanisms are used to secure cabinets.
Conduit hole seals. Conduit hole seals are used on cabinets that have holes that need to be plugged after conduit has been removed.