Tag: Cabinet Cooler

New Press Release: Aluminum ATEX Cabinet Cooler Systems

Published on by Russ BowmanLeave a comment

EXAIR Cabinet Cooler Systems have been providing durable and reliable heat protection for electrical & electronic panels for decades. With no moving parts to wear or electrical components to burn out, as long as you supply them with clean, moisture-free compressed air, they’ll operate darn near indefinitely, maintenance free.

From right to left: Small NEMA 12, Large NEMA 12, Large NEMA 4X

Among the options we’ve offered with our Cabinet Cooler Systems are:

  • Three levels of NEMA integrity to suit the environment it’ll be installed in:
    • NEMA 12 (dust tight, oil tight, indoor duty)-for general industrial environments where no liquids or corrosives are present.
    • NEMA 4 (dust-tight, oil-tight, splash-resistant, indoor/outdoor duty)-for wash down areas, outdoor installations, etc. Basically, anywhere the panel could get wet.
    • NEMA 4X (dust-tight, oil-tight, splash-resistant, corrosion-resistant, indoor/outdoor duty)-for NEMA 4 environments where the panel is also exposed to corrosive elements. These are also popular (and oftentimes specified) in food and pharmaceutical uses. We offer them in either 303SS or 316SS.
  • Thermostat Control:
    • Our standard offering is a bimetallic probe thermostat, preset to 95ยฐF (35ยฐC) that gets wired in to the ‘hot’ lead of the Solenoid Valve, which gets plumbed to the compressed air supply line. We have 120VAC, 240VAC, and 24VDC Solenoid Valves.
    • ETC Electronic Temperature Control is a digital system with an LED readout for continuous display of the panel’s internal temperature, and the ability to change the temperature setpoint via push button control. ETC systems come in 120VAC and 240VAC configurations.
  • High Temperature Cabinet Cooler Systems. These are rated for use at ambient temperatures from 125ยฐF to 200ยฐF (52ยฐC to 93ยฐC).
  • Non-Hazardous Purge (NHP) Systems. These are Thermostat controlled, but they provide a slight positive pressure in the enclosure even when the Solenoid Valve is closed. They’re particularly well-suited for dirty environments where contamination could enter through small holes, conduits, etc. that cannot be positively sealed.

Over the last few years, we’ve also offered the NEMA 4 & 4X Cabinet Cooler Systems for UL Classified areas. Our HazLoc Cabinet Cooler Systems are rated for Class I Div 1, Class II Div 1, and Class III areas, and they meet the safety standards published by UL in the United States and Canada.

Our latest offering for hazardous locations is our ATEX Cabinet Cooler Systems. ATEX (an initialization of the French term “ATmosphรจres EXplosives” (explosive atmospheres) refers to a directive by the European Union aimed at safety in such environments. This month’s EXAIR Press Release details our Aluminum ATEX Cabinet Cooler Systems:

NEMA 4 ATEX Cabinet Cooler System safely cools a panel in a Zone 2 (explosive vapor) area of a battery plant.

NEW PRODUCT:ย ย Protect Sensitive Electronics in Explosive Environments with New Aluminum ATEX Cabinet Cooler Systems

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  EXAIRโ€™s ATEX Cabinet Coolerยฎ Systems deliver a powerful and affordable solution for keeping electrical enclosures cool in hazardous ATEX classified areasโ€”and theyโ€™re now available in durable aluminum construction. Engineered for use in Zones 2 and 22, these coolers are UL-tested, CE compliant, and meet stringent ATEX standards for purged and pressurized enclosures.

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  With cooling capacities of up to 5,600 Btu/Hr., ATEX Cabinet Coolers are ideal for preventing overheating in electrical cabinets exposed to explosive atmospheres. Whether youโ€™re dealing with industrial control panels, application-specific electrical boxes, or simply sensitive electronics in hazardous locations, these systems ensure your equipment stays cool, safe and operational. Designed for quick and easy installation, the ATEX Cabinet Cooler mounts through a standard electrical knockout and maintains NEMA 4 integrity even in demanding environments. Optional thermostat controls reduce compressed air usage, while cold air distribution kits ensure even cooling throughout the cabinet.

ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย  EXAIR offers a comprehensive lineup of Cabinet Cooler Systems for NEMA 12, 4, 4X, hazardous location and ATEX applications. Built with no moving parts, every system is CE compliant, UL-listed, and designed for long-term reliability in the most challenging conditions. From control panels and motor centers to laser housings and surveillance equipment, EXAIR Cabinet Coolers protect your investments and keep your operations running smoothly. Prices start at $1,615.

If you have electrical or electronic panels that need cooling in hazardous environments, EXAIR has safe, durable, and reliable solutions. If you’d like to find out more, give me a call.

Russ Bowman, CCASS

Application Engineer
Visit us on the Web
Follow me on Twitter
Like us on Facebook

Hazardous Location Classifications Explained: HazLoc Cabinet Cooler

Published on by Tyler DanielLeave a comment

As we approach the hot, humid summer temperatures across much of the USA, it’s important to begin considering a solution for your control panels. This is even more critical in facilities that handle hazardous or combustible materials or chemicals. A common solution for panel cooling is to simply install a couple of fans: one to draw in fresh ambient air and a second to exhaust warm air from the panel.

While this might work in some cases, it is most definitely unsuitable for use in an area where there’s exposure to anything flammable or combustible. The fan would simply draw those vapors in and pass them into the panel where it’ll create a quick ignition source.

EXAIRโ€™s Hazardous Location Cabinet Coolers are engineered for use with purged (not included) electrical enclosures. The HazLoc Cabinet Coolers are not purged and pressurized control systems and should not be relied upon nor used in place of a purged and pressurized controller. They are a cooling solution meant to be used in conjunction with a purged and pressurized control system. These systems have been approved and tested by UL for use in the following areas:

Class I Div 1&2 โ€“ Groups A, B, C, and D

  • Class I Areas refer to the presence of flammable gases or vapors in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. Class I Div 1 will have ignitable concentrations of flammable gases present during the course of normal operations. This is level of approval is one that differentiates the EXAIR Hazardous Location Cabinet Coolers from much of the competition. Class 1 Div 2 areas will have flammable gasses or vapors present only in the event of an accident or during unusual operating conditions.

Class II Div 1&2 โ€“ Groups E, F, and G

  • Class II areas are locations in which combustible dust may exist. The end user shall avoid installation of the device in a Class II environment where dust may be readily disturbed from the exhausts of the Hazardous Location Cabinet Cooler. Any dust formed in the vicinity of the cooler must be cleaned regularly.

Class III

  • Class III areas are locations that will have ignitable fibers or flyings present. This is common within the textile industry.

The Cabinet Cooler also carries a temperature rating of T3C, meaning it cannot be installed near any materials that could auto-ignite at temperatures in excess of 320ยฐF. For a comprehensive list and description of all the various Classified areas, check out the UL website.

The Hazardous Location Cabinet Cooler is available in (8) different cooling capacities, ranging from 1,000 Btu/hr โ€“ 5,600 Btu/hr. The Cabinet Cooler is the best solution for protecting your sensitive electronics from heat, dirt, and moisture. With Nema 4/4X systems available, the Hazardous Location Cabinet Coolers will keep the cabinet cool without compromising the integrity of the enclosure.

If youโ€™ve got an electrical cabinet installed in a hazardous location, fill out the Cabinet Cooler Sizing Guide and allow an EXAIR Application Engineer to determine the most suitable model for you. Don’t let the heat get the best of you this summer!

Tyler Daniel, CCASS

Application Engineer/Intl Trade

E-mail: TylerDaniel@EXAIR.com

X: @EXAIR_TD

It’s Heating Up!!! EXAIR Cabinet Cooler Promo!!!

Published on by jasonkirbyLeave a comment

It’s that time of year again… Cabinet Cooler season!!! With the temperatures ramping up, so are our promotions! Now through the end of August, with the purchase of any Cabinet Cooler System, you will receive a free AC Sensor. The EXAIR Model 7929 AC Sensor offers a reliable method for non-contact verification of voltage presence. When voltage is detected, the sensor’s tip emits a bright red glow accompanied by an audible alert, ensuring users can easily confirm power to their electrical devices. This versatile tool is suitable for testing various components, including wall receptacles, switches, fuses, and junction boxes. Additionally, it can detect electricity through insulation, making it effective for identifying breaks in power cords and wires.

Now for the Cabinet Coolers!!! EXAIRโ€™s Cabinet Cooler employs Vortex Tube technology to generate cold air from standard compressed air supplies, effectively keeping enclosures free from debris and moisture. Installation is straightforward, taking only minutes through a typical electrical knockout. The Cabinet Cooler Systems come with Nema 12 (IP54) ratings and are offered in various materials, including Aluminum, 303 Stainless Steel, and 316 Stainless Steel, suitable for Nema 4/4X (IP66) rated enclosures. For installations where top mounting is not feasible, Side Mount Kits in the same materials are available. This year, EXAIR has broadened its product range by introducing Hazardous Location Cabinet Coolers and ATEX Cabinet Coolers, catering to customers with specific ATEX compliance needs.

From right to left: Small NEMA 12, Large NEMA 12, Large NEMA 4X

These systems offer cooling capacities ranging from 275 to 5,600 Btu/hr. To simplify your selection process, we provide a Cabinet Cooler Sizing Guide that helps us recommend the most appropriate model for your cabinet. By taking a few quick measurements, we can accurately assess the heat load that needs to be managed and present you with a straightforward solution.

If you have questions about the EXAIR Cabinet Cooler Promo, or anything regarding EXAIR and our products, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Jason Kirby
Application Engineer
Email: jasonkirby@exair.com
Twitter: @EXAIR_jk

Choosing the Right EXAIR Cabinet Cooler System

Published on by Jordan T ShouseLeave a comment

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. Theyโ€™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 (ฮ”T) 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 enclosureโ€™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.

EXAIRโ€™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.

This NEMA 4 Dual Cabinet Cooler System protects a critical equipment panel on a hot roll steel line.

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 applicationโ€™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 200ยฐF (93ยฐC), such as near furnaces or in desert climates.

Ensure the Cabinet Coolerโ€™s NEMA rating matches or exceeds your enclosureโ€™s rating to maintain its integrity. For example, a NEMA 4X enclosure requires a NEMA 4X Cabinet Cooler.

From right to left: Small NEMA 12, Large NEMA 12, Large NEMA 4X

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 95ยฐF 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 isnโ€™t needed, keeping dust and debris out of the enclosure.
  • Side Mount Kits: Allow installation on the side of the enclosure if top mounting isnโ€™t feasible due to space constraints for the NEMA 4 and 4X coolers.
  • High-Temperature Models: Designed for ambient temperatures between 125ยฐF and 200ยฐF (52ยฐCโ€“93ยฐC).
  • 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.
Inside, outdoors, high temperature, dirt/dust/humidity, corrosive and classified environments are no problem for EXAIR Cabinet Cooler Systems

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 EXAIRโ€™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

Send me an email
Find us on the Web 
Like us on Facebook
Twitter: @EXAIR_JS