Enclosure Hygrostats & Dehumidifiers

If an enclosure is not protected from moisture penetration, condensation can accumulate on the components inside the enclosure. Outdoor enclosures can be the most vulnerable to condensation, because they are often installed in environments that have high ambient humidity levels. Condensation can cause damage to electrical components, as well as to the enclosures themselves. Some potential hazards include: corrosion, short circuits, premature breakdown, mold and water drainage issues. Installing devices such as heaters, fans, air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help to manage an enclosure’s internal temperatures. These devices are typically regulated by thermostats and hygrostats, which automatically trigger the fans and heaters when ambient conditions reach a certain temperature or humidity level.
Hoffman H2OMIT Thermoelectric Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air within an enclosure, protecting electrical components from condensation and corrosion. The built-in drain with plastic hose directs collected moisture to the vent drain (sold separately) and rotating side air vents direct recirculating air away from the electrical components. The thermoelectric dehumidifiers can be used in aluminum, mild steel, stainless steel and non-metallic enclosures.
Hoffman Electronic Hygrotherms sense relative air humidity and ambient temperature and adjust a connected device to maintain temperature and humidity set points.
Pfannenberg Hygrostats switch on electrical enclosure Filterfans or heaters when a preset relative humidity is exceeded. The relative humidity is kept above the dew point and the condensation of water on electrical components is prevented. Combined Hygrostats/Thermostats in one housing ensure temperature inside the enclosure is always correct and condensation build-up is prevented.
Products
3 common reasons to use purge systems
- They allow electrical enclosures to be installed in hazardous areas without the need for explosion proof enclosures.
- They recycle the air inside of an enclosure, reducing the internal temperature.
- They help reduce the effects of corrosion on components housed within the enclosure.
How does a purge system work?
Purge systems use incoming air from a supply line, solenoid valves, pressure gauges and pumps, to constantly maintain a positive pressure inside an enclosure. This prevents any flammable gases from entering the enclosure potentially causing an ignition event to occur. By maintaining a positive pressure within the enclosure, moisture and corrosive gases are also prevented from entering the enclosure and damaging components. Most purge systems will ensure that the air inside the enclosure is recycled a certain amount of times within a given time period. This air recycle function assists in maintaining a cooler temperature within the enclosure.