How Enclosure Heaters Extend the Life of Equipment
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With all its benefits, it can be challenging to see water as hazardous. But water and electricity have never been a good combination. When mixed with an electrical current, water can be dangerous to anyone who comes into contact with it, but that’s not the only way water and electronics don’t mix.
Whether it’s a computer server or a medical device, the power electronics components are sensitive to water. They’re so sensitive they often don’t even need direct contact to suffer. Storing electronics in humid, damp, moisture-prone areas can cause them to malfunction or die altogether. That’s where flexible enclosure heaters can help.
How Enclosure Heaters Work
Protecting electronic devices can be challenging. Often, manufacturers work within a limited space, which might be tight or angled.
Flexible heaters are made from materials that make them pliable. They can bend and contour without sacrificing their durability. This thin profile also helps them squeeze into tight spaces for a customizable solution.
Enclosure heaters are geared toward the unique electronics needs in cabinetry, casing, and other enclosed spaces. You’ll find them in server cabinets, vending machines and ATMs, medical devices, and other applications where components are contained. Their goal is to keep the interior warm and dry throughout the equipment’s life cycle.
Benefits of Enclosure Heaters
Manufacturers often choose flexible heaters to maintain a consistent temperature and protect equipment. However, in the case of enclosure heaters, moisture is often the biggest concern. High humidity and condensation are two significant challenges for manufacturers of enclosed equipment.
Enclosure heaters help maintain a consistent temperature to reduce moisture. Here are a few top benefits manufacturers get from enclosure heaters.
Maintain a Consistent Temperature
Extreme heat and cold can impact electronic components. Unfortunately, not all electronics can be at the ideal temperature at all times. For those applications, enclosure heaters can hold equipment within an ideal temperature range.
Some enclosure heaters even come with a built-in thermostat. This comes in handy for applications like outdoor ATMs.
Reduce condensation
Temperature fluctuations can have a secondary side effect. If equipment gets too cold, condensation could cause moisture to seep into the components. By keeping temperatures consistent, equipment will stay dry, extending its lifespan.
If condensation is a concern, speak to your rep about it when choosing a flexible heating solution. You’ll need a heater that keeps the temperature inside the enclosure consistent.
Multiple installation options
Another benefit of enclosure heaters is that you can install them in various ways. Manufacturers can order adhesive backing or aluminum plate heaters to attach the parts.
Hi-Heat ensures every heater comes with a flange, making it easy for line workers to add the plate during manufacturing. You can also request the exact size and quantities for a long-term solution.
Extends equipment life
Water is not suitable for electronic components. Even a small amount of condensation can corrode metal conductors. Water contains minerals that can build up inside your electronics and erode them. Worse, if there’s dust, the water will attach to those particles and clog the inner workings.
By reducing moisture, enclosure heaters can keep equipment working longer, reducing the lifespan. For manufacturers, this means distributing products that will result in customer satisfaction.
Reduces downtime
When equipment experiences regular condensation, a shortened life isn’t the only issue. That moisture can also cause temporary outages. Condensation can short-circuit electronic equipment, causing it to malfunction. When equipment goes down, it can impact employees and customers.
Without an enclosure heater, customers may be disappointed in the performance of their equipment, not realizing that condensation is the culprit. Constant outages are bad for a business’s bottom line, and they might opt for a manufacturer who can offer reliable products.
Enclosure Heater Uses
Flexible heaters are great for whenever equipment needs protection against temperatures and moisture. They’re thin in design, flexible, and customizable. Enclosure heaters come into play when electronics are inside a casing or cabinet. This can be especially beneficial for outdoor equipment stored in an area with unpredictable temperatures.
Telecom cabinets
Telecommunications cabinets are a standard equipment safety solution for server rooms and offices. Unfortunately, most cabinets aren’t airtight, subject to temperature fluctuations and moisture. Flexible enclosure heaters can be built into cabinets to protect internal components.
ATM and vending machines
ATMs and vending machines need to be versatile enough to endure various challenges. They’re sometimes found outdoors in environments where temperatures can fluctuate. A flexible heater resists condensation even when subjected to rain, snow, and sleet.
Valve housings
Valve housings help keep liquids safe as they flow from one point to another in machinery. It’s essential to protect the electronics from any condensation that might arise. Without this protection, valves can rust and need to be replaced quickly.
Hi-Heat Industries specializes in flexible heating solutions for manufacturers across the country. We offer a variety of assembly options, as well as an option to customize your voltage and sizes. You can choose from bulk shipments or custom orders on an as-needed basis. Contact us to discuss how we can work with your team to create the perfect solution for your needs.
