Condensation Management

Preventing Condensation Inside Enclosures and Junction Boxes 

Electronic equipment and components, as well as other items must be housed in enclosures designed to provide protection from harsh environments. Food and Beverage MRO (Maintenance Repair and Operations) professionals understand that sealed enclosures must meet Ingress Protection of IP66 and in very high pressure wash down areas IP69K.

Electronic equipment and components, as well as other items are in jeopardy when moisture finds its way into the enclosure. The introduction of moisture that results in water is an outcome of moist air getting into the enclosure. MRO professionals are constantly evaluating how to keep the moist air out. 

To address this problem, Rittal Corporation has engineered a door gasket system that provides an IP66K rated seal round the door. Other unique engineering includes hinges are inside, and key lock or T-Handles have additional O rings to keep moisture out. 

Furthermore, Rittal Corporation provides vital Climate Evaluation Assistance by assessing Maximum Ambient temperature, by Desired Internal temperature, taking into consideration the Heal Lost of inside components, location, and Wash Down demands. This important appraisal can determine if Heaters using humidity control systems devices such as Thermostats and Hygrostats are required to control internal air. 

When internal enclosure conditions are managed, Items inside an enclosure can expect a longer life and will continue to provide expected performance. The goal is minimizing down time and keep production going.

Condensation causes damage

Various problems result when condensation forms on internal electrical and electronic devices inside an enclosure. Corrosion due to moisture also attacks entry points for example, conduit connectors and cable glands. These items are an additional path for moisture to enter the enclosure and will cause condensation. 

Food and Beverage Condensation Sources are indoor wash down areas.

High-pressure spray with soap lubricants and other chemicals penetrate around the enclosure and connections. Cable glands or conduit fittings are areas of major concern as well as enclosure door gaskets, key locks, and external hinges. In addition, minimizing how often the enclosure door is opened for inspection, service or maintenance purposes is an important factor. In food and beverage food contact zones contamination must be eliminated therefore weep holes and drain plugs are an area of unease because enclosures will need to be opened more often to swab for contamination and clean inside. Rittal Corporation has viewing windows that keep the enclosure ratings in the IP66 area allowing Enclosure Doors to be kept sealed and closed.

Eliminate air leaks

Enclosures should be large enough to permit internal airflow and tightly sealed to reduce instances of condensation. Choosing the appropriate enclosure to suit the application by IP rating is important. Moving from Foam Gaskets and External Hinges to Hygienic Design Gaskets and Internal Hinges will prevent water from getting in and being sealed tight helps to control condensation. 

Items to Consider

1.   Climate evaluations

Work with your vendor evaluate your environment, the goal is to prevent condensation issues.

2.   Enclosure connections  

Cable glands or conduit or fittings need to be inspected and replaced if these are additional sources of moist air entry.

3.   Climate Engineering Assistance

Look for manufactures such as Rittal Corporation that provide Climate Engineering Assistance to help keep condensation out and provides enclosure solutions for hygienically sensitive areas that are subjected to regular cleaning. 

Rittal Corporation invites you to learn more at www.Rittal.com