Condensation can occur in all areas of electrical installation within tightly-sealed cases that are exposed to changes in temperature, and therefore differences in air pressure between the interior and exterior, despite high IP protection classes. And wherever there is water, there is the risk of corrosion, electrical short-circuits and other damage. These often result in power failures, bottlenecks in supply, and cost-intensive downtime.
Protection against condensation has often been provided in the form of electronic heating ventilation systems, which are expensive and require a high level of maintenance. Or drip-holes in cases, although these also mean the loss of a high protection class. WISKA confronts this challenge with its breathable venting products for pressure equalisation.
The VentGLAND® cable gland and the VentPLUG pressure equalisation unit have a breathable ePTFE membrane, which is watertight and at the same time permeable by air, meaning that it is possible for the pressure between the case interior and exterior to be constantly equalised. That way the formation of condensation is avoided. In addition, the air flow rate can be adapted to customer's needs, as the pressure equalisation products supplied by WISKA are equipped with different membrane types.
VentGLAND® and VentPLUG both have the high protection class IP 68 and 69K, as well as being UV and salt water-resistant, making them suitable for roughest conditions. The cable glands are available in the following materials: plastic, brass and stainless steel. The locking elements are available in brass and plastic, and stainless steel on request.
The venting products supplied by WISKA are used in engineering and craft applications, for example. Light manufacturers, particularly those who produce LED lights, are also making use of VentGLAND® cable glands with increasing frequency, to protect components in light cases. Customers include the shipping and offshore industries, as well as rail engineering companies, keeping their technical systems ready for operation even in severe environmental conditions.
Alongside its venting products, WISKA is also presenting additional cable glands for various areas of use at SPS IPC Drives 2015 in Hall 5, at Stand 445.