Thermoelectric Enclosure Coolers
Enclosure coolers based on thermoelectric technology are compact, solid-state refrigeration devices that use the Peltier effect to maintain controlled temperatures within enclosures that house sensitive electronic and electrical equipment. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems, a thermoelectric cooler has no moving parts and relies instead on the transfer of heat from one side of the device to the other when an electric current passes through two different kinds of semiconductor materials. The current creates a cooling effect on the inside of the enclosure while dissipating heat to the external environment.
When space is at a premium and a clean environment is essential, thermoelectric coolers, sometimes referred to as thermoelectric air conditioners or Peltier coolers, shine. They do not require refrigerants or ventilation systems and are fundamentally solid-state devices. This construction translates into a reliability that is hard to beat, especially when you consider that they can operate in contaminated environments and hazardous areas.
More Information about Thermoelectric Enclosure Coolers
An essential part of a thermoelectric cooler is the heat sink. It aids in getting rid of the heat that the cooler makes when it is working. The thermoelectric elements create a temperature difference between the internal and ambient heat sinks, making internal air cooler while dissipating heat into the external environment.
Heat sinks are usually made from materials that have high thermal conductivity (e.g., aluminum, copper). They have a large surface area (often with fins or ridges) to present as much of the outside surface as possible to the surrounding air. The airflow around the heat sink (natural or induced, such as by a fan) allows the heat to escape. If the heat sink didn't work, the thermoelectric cooling "chiller" would quickly overheat and stop working. Indeed, fans are used in some systems to boost the effectiveness and efficiency of the heat sink.
FAQs
What is the typical cooling capacity of thermoelectric cooling systems?
The typical cooling capacity of thermoelectric cooling systems ranges from 10 to 500 watts, depending on the size and application of the system.
Industrial Enclosure Accessories and Modifications
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.