For cooling process control panels and most other electrical enclosures, air-to-air heat exchangers are a popular and highly effective choice. However, in the realm of thermal management, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution, and heat exchangers are no exception. Because of the various pros and cons of air-to-air heat exchangers, all projects should involve a comprehensive analysis to ensure that they’re the best option. If not, then Noren may suggest an alternative, such as an air-to-water solution, that can offer equal benefits in efficiency and productivity.
The Benefits of Air-to-Air Cooling
In the past, controlling waste heat meant utilizing air conditioning or air compressing technology to chill the air inside electrical enclosures. By contrast, air-to-air heat exchangers are designed to transfer heat away from electrical circuits, preventing them from overheating. The most significant benefit of air-to-air heat exchangers is that they do not draw on excessive amounts of power. Instead, they rely on simple physics, such as latent heat of evaporation, that occur without the need for complicated air compressing equipment. Unfortunately, one of the most significant drawbacks of air-to-air heat exchangers is that they only work when the ambient air outside of the electrical enclosure is below the system’s maximum operating temperature.
Air-to-Water Cooling May Be a Better Option
For locations where ambient temperatures are too high for air-to-air heat exchangers, Noren also offers high-performance air-to-water heat exchangers, which can provide below-ambient cooling with minimal energy and maintenance costs. Air-to-water heat exchangers are most beneficial for facilities that operate near ample water sources. However, by utilizing as little as only one gallon of water per unit, they can still provide highly efficient solutions for facilities that are not located near large bodies of water.
Choosing Between Air-to-Air and Air-to-Water Heat Exchangers
With over four decades of expertise, Noren Thermal can help you choose the most beneficial heat exchanger design according to your unique application. To learn more, call Noren Thermal, Inc. at 866-936-6736. Now located in Taylor, TX, Noren proudly produces all of our products in the United States and delivers them to clients nationwide.