EXAIR Cabinet Coolers are compressed air-powered systems that use vortex tube technology to deliver cold air into sealed enclosures, preventing overheating without refrigerants or moving parts. They’re durable, easy to install, and designed for various environments, making them a cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioners or heat exchangers. Key benefits include:
- No moving parts: Virtually maintenance-free with a long lifespan.
- Compact design: Installs in minutes through a standard electrical knockout.
- Environmental resistance: Available in NEMA 12, 4, 4X, and Hazardous Location ratings.
- Energy efficiency: Thermostat-controlled systems minimize compressed air use.
To ensure you select the right model, follow these steps.
First Calculate the Heat Load
The total heat load includes:
- External heat load: Heat transferred from the ambient environment, based on enclosure surface area and the temperature differential (ΔT) between external and desired internal temperatures.
- Internal heat load: Heat generated by components inside the enclosure.
- Solar heat load (if applicable): For outdoor enclosures exposed to sunlight, factor in heat absorption based on the enclosure’s color (darker colors absorb more heat).
- Existing Cooling Devices: If fans are currently used, note their diameter or airflow (CFM) to account for the heat they remove, as these openings must be sealed when installing a Cabinet Cooler.
EXAIR’s Cabinet Cooler System Calculator simplifies this process. Enter your data online for an instant model recommendation, or submit the Sizing Guide to an EXAIR Application Engineer for assistance. For quick calculations, you can call EXAIR at 1-800-903-9247, and an engineer can estimate the heat load in minutes.
Second, select the Appropriate NEMA Rating
EXAIR Cabinet Coolers are designed to maintain the environmental integrity of your enclosure, with models available for different conditions. Choose a NEMA rating based on your application’s environment:
- NEMA 12 (IP54): For indoor use, protecting against dust and oil. Ideal for general factory settings.
- NEMA 4 (IP66): For indoor or outdoor use, offering dust, oil, and splash resistance. Suitable for wash-down areas or wet environments.
- NEMA 4X (IP66): Same as NEMA 4 but made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel (Type 303 or 316). Perfect for food processing, pharmaceutical, or corrosive environments.
- Hazardous Location (HazLoc): UL Classified for Class I Div 1, Class II Div 1, or Class III areas or ATEX Zones 2 & 22. Used in environments with explosive gases or dust, such as chemical plants or coal facilities. Must be paired with a purge and pressurization system.
- High Temperature: For ambient temperatures of up to 200°F (93°C), such as near furnaces or in desert climates.
Ensure the Cabinet Cooler’s NEMA rating matches or exceeds your enclosure’s rating to maintain its integrity. For example, a NEMA 4X enclosure requires a NEMA 4X Cabinet Cooler.
Third, choose the Operating System
EXAIR offers two operating modes to suit different cooling needs:
- Thermostat-Controlled Systems: These are the most energy-efficient option, using a thermostat and solenoid valve to activate cooling only when the internal temperature exceeds the setpoint (preset at 95°F but adjustable). Includes a filter, cold air distribution kit, and solenoid valve (available in 120Vac, 240Vac, or 24Vdc). Ideal for enclosures with fluctuating heat loads or seasonal temperature changes.
- Continuous Operating Systems: Provide constant cooling and positive pressure to keep out dust and debris. Best for applications requiring uninterrupted cooling or in extremely dirty environments. Includes a filter and cold air distribution kit.
For precise temperature control, consider adding an Electronic Temperature Control (ETC), which offers digital monitoring and easy temperature adjustments, especially useful in sensitive applications like pharmaceutical plants.
Fourth, Consider Additional Options
EXAIR provides accessories and features to tailor the Cabinet Cooler to your needs:
- Non-Hazardous Purge (NHP): Delivers a 1 SCFM airflow to maintain positive pressure when cooling isn’t needed, keeping dust and debris out of the enclosure.
- Side Mount Kits: Allow installation on the side of the enclosure if top mounting isn’t feasible due to space constraints for the NEMA 4 and 4X coolers.
- High-Temperature Models: Designed for ambient temperatures between 125°F and 200°F (52°C–93°C).
- Material Options: Standard models use aluminum, while NEMA 4X models offer Type 303 or 316 stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
- Voltage Options: Solenoid valves for thermostat-controlled systems are available in 120Vac, 240Vac, or 24Vdc to match your electrical setup.
Final Tips for Success
- Act Early: Install a Cabinet Cooler before heat-related failures occur, especially in summer or high-temperature environments.
- Plan for Installation: Ensure all enclosure openings (e.g., fan vents) are sealed to maintain positive pressure and prevent contamination.
- Monitor Performance: Use the ETC for real-time temperature monitoring in critical applications.
Choosing the right EXAIR Cabinet Cooler involves calculating your heat load, selecting the appropriate NEMA rating, deciding between thermostat-controlled or continuous operation, and ensuring a reliable compressed air supply. By using EXAIR’s Sizing Guide or Calculator and consulting with myself or any one of our Application Engineers, you can confidently select a system that protects your electronics, minimizes downtime, and saves on maintenance costs.
Ready to cool your enclosures? Visit EXAIR.com to explore Cabinet Cooler options, use the Cabinet Cooler System Calculator, or contact an Application Engineer at 1-800-903-9247. Keep your electronics cool and your operations running smoothly with a EXAIR Cabinet cooler system.
Jordan Shouse, CCASS
Application Engineer
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