As we get ready for all things Fall & Winter, it’s time to start thinking about things like football, Halloween decorations, and cooler temperatures. Not everyone likes these cooler seasons as much as I do (my wife, for example, would prefer only two seasons: Hot and Hotter), but whether you like it or not, Old Man Winter comes every year.
When it comes to your electronics enclosure, we encourage our clients to think holistically. You need to consider both temperature extremes and condensation risks. Today’s post will focus on cold temperature exposure, but with a wary eye on the risks associated with condensation.
Cold Weather Packages For Your Outdoor Enclosure
If you’ve forgotten more than you remember about thermodynamics, that’s ok, because we’re here to help. Beyond simple online heat dissipation calculation tools, there are other questions to consider so that you have a complete solution set for your unique application.
Can one wattage/voltage design work in all geographical locations?
A solution that works only on the test bench but doesn’t consider regional power connections could be problematic. We suggest customized solutions that are specific to your location.
Will AC power always be available?
You may need to consider backup / DC power to maximize uptime.
Have you considered Touch-Safe / maintenance crew safety?
“Even minimal-voltage installers can still be subjected to alarming jolts, especially if they are working in a hazardous environment such as when they are ungrounded or standing on a wet spot…” says the NECA Executive Director of Standards and Safety.
Does my design need two heaters?
Sometimes one heater is not enough to keep electronics safe in frigid temperatures.
The answers to these questions will determine how best to design a solution that can likely handle anything Mother Nature throws your way. Depending on how you answer these queries will help us guide you down the right hardware path, a path that might lead to a solution involving a:
Our goal at STEGO is to make sure your design avoids potential blind spots. We offer a comprehensive review that takes into consideration both temperature and condensation. We want to minimize the risk of failure, allowing for maximized uptime. Contact us today for a consultation, so you know you’ve selected the right thermal management solution, despite temperature and condensation exposure.
Designing complex electronics that perform perfectly outdoors is, well, complex. At STEGO, we believe that protecting those complex projects from extreme climates should be the simplest part of your design. That’s why we use German engineering to create the highest quality thermal management components to protect your designs from anything Mother Nature throws at it. We’ve been pioneering Thermal Management for over 40 years now. With STEGO parts installed, you can rest easy that your complex design is reliably protected for the long haul.