Download Pfannenberg’s NEW 2016 Thermal Management Catalog!


We are excited to announce the release of our NEW NORTH AMERICAN CATALOG. In this catalog we take a Solutions First approach to helping you understand how to choose the best Thermal Management products for your applications.


> New sections for Engineered Solutions and Industry Group Specific Solutions.
> Shared expertise to find the best solution for any type of application and environment.
> Easily determine the correct thermal management products for your application and environment.
> New high resolution detailed product pictures with cut-aways.

 

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Pfannenberg, Inc. is a global manufacturer of thermal management, water cooling solutions and signaling technology. For more than 60 years, our enclosure cooling products have been helping some of the largest companies worldwide stay cool and safe, protecting and keeping electronic equipment running to avoid costly downtime.

In addition to our thermal management products we also manufacture visual and audible signaling devices for security, industrial fire, building, industrial process, disaster warning, hazardous areas, light art and illumination. Our business philosophy – Protecting man, machine and the environment.

To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today! We have a wide range of expertise to share with you.

 

Topics: Enclosure CoolingThermal ManagementNorth America

The Technology of Cooling Part 1: Cooling with Filterfans®

If the installation is in a clean, non-hazardous environment with an acceptable ambient (outside the enclosure) temperature range, a simple forced-air cooling system utilizing outside air is usually adequate. Combined with an air filter, such devices generally meet the heat removal needs of typical electronic equipment and many electrical applications. 


How do I know if a Filterfan® is the right product for my application?

  • If the temperature rise inside the enclosure can be higher than the ambient
  • If multiple configurations are needed. Filterfans® can be located in a number of locations within complex enclosure configurations.

Calculating the required airflow

To properly size a Filterfan® it’s important to understand how static pressure effects the performance of a fan.


Understanding CFM

CMF describes the volume flow rate of compressed air. We can define 3 different CFM:

  • CFM1: Fan Only (unfiltered)
  • CFM2: Filterfan® Assembly (uninstalled)
  • CFM3: Filterfan® Installed on an enclosure with one filtered exhaust assembly
    (Note: Always calculate cooling capacity of Filterfans® with the CFM3 value)


Utilizing Filterfans® for Enclosure Cooling 

  • Always use the Filterfans® to propel the cool ambient air into enclosure.
  • Slight positive pressure builds up inside the cabinet so that only air filtered by the Filterfans® flows into the enclosure.
  • The air propelled into the cabinet displaces the warm air which exits through the exhaust filter.
  • When installing a combination of Filterfans® and exhaust filters, fit the Filterfans® in the lower third of the cabinet and the exhaust filter(s) near the top of the cabinet.

Utilization examples

CFM : Filterfan® + Exhaust Filter CFM : Filterfan® + 2 Exhaust Filters CFM : Filterfan® + intake + Filterfan® Exhaust

 

Part 1 of our Thermal Management Solutions, Pfannenberg’s Filterfans® incorporate modern louvers which enable maximal airflow, hold back dust/flour and water particles, protect the filter medium from damage and can be integrated into the design of the application. Filterfans are an ideal cooling solution when the ambient air is always lower than the temperature required in the electrical enclosure. This assists the natural convection of the air and avoids hot spots withing the enclosure.

Pfannenberg is the inventor of the Filterfan®, with 50 years of experience and continuous development. Trust in the Original


Read the 2nd part of our Thermal Management Tips: Cooling with Closed Loop Air to Air Heat Exchangers

Closed Loop Liquid Cooling Reduces Downtime, Maintenance & Repair Costs for Commercial Bakeries

Pfannenberg’s Cooling Solutions Help Keep Equipment Running for One of the Fastest Growing Independent Wholesale Bakers in America.

Flour is one of the paramount enemies of electrical enclosures and enclosure air conditioners, particularly in the make-up area of a commercial bakery. Keeping the electronics cool which power the machines, is essential to the entire operation of the Schwebel Baking Company. Without the electrical enclosures staying cool, the machines fail and require replacement or downtime for repair.

Pfannenberg’s PWS Series Air To Water Heat Exchangers were an ideal solution for the Schwebel Baking Company, these Air/Water Heat Exchangers utilize glycol or a cool water source that is already available in the factory, to cool their electrical units. Pfannenberg’s Air To Water Heat Exchanger has no filters, which means there is no down time trying to change filters or having them becoming clogged.

By installing Pfannenberg’s Air To Water Heat Exchangers, Schwebel’s was able to see a significant difference in the cleanliness of their electrical cabinets as well as in the efficiency of the cooled air.

 

Pfannenberg’s PWS Series Air To Water Heat Exchangers were the precise solution for Schwebel’s manufacturing process. Incorporating closed loop cooling with Air To Water Heat Exchangers improved performance, reduced maintenance, was energy efficient, and prevented unplanned repairs.


Click Here to Download the Case Study in PDF


 

Selecting the Proper Equipment for Food and Beverage Applications


Proper thermal management is key for saving resources and keeping electronics (and equipment) up and running on a consistent basis. It is important to understand the various types of cooling methods available and how the ambient conditions may effect the product chosen.  Choosing the wrong method may lead to a solution that is undersized or oversized, or fails prematurely due to being specified for incompatible ambient conditions.


Selection of the preferred thermal management method, based on various environmental conditions:

Click here to view our thermal management selection guide.


With products that include fans, heaters, packaged air conditioners, air to water heat exchangers, packaged process chillers, and signaling devices, Pfannenberg offers a full range of thermal management solutions for the food and beverage industry. Standard options such as stainless steel materials, NEMA 4/4X enclosures, and washdown duty construction allow these time-tested products to be seamlessly incorporated into even the most demanding food and beverage processing applications.


Have a question regarding which equipment is best for your application? Ask Us Here.

Be sure to follow our NEW Food and Beverage LinkedIn Showcase Page!

Topics: Air Water Heat ExchangersFilterfansCooling UnitsThermal ManagementHeatersFood & BeverageChillersAir Air Heat Exchangers

Control Enclosure Temperatures in a Food & Beverage Manufacturing Plant


Controlling enclosure temperature is crucial in the food and beverage industry.  If the temperature is too warm or too cold, condensation and higher risks of contamination arises. 

Pfannenberg’s Heaters, Thermostats & Hygrostats detect and keep ambient conditions above dew point to avoid the harmful effects of condensation on your electronics and products. They can be used as standalone or in partnership with our other Thermal Management solutions specifically our Filterfan® and Cooling Unit product lines.

  • Thermostats are used for alarming, fan control and heater control
  • Hygrostats can control humidity levels within enclosure when used with small heaters
  • Heaters are available for cabinets in cold storage areas as well as for condensate management

For over 60 years, Pfannenberg has been helping to cool and maintain temperatures for your electronics.


 

Topics: Thermal ManagementNorth AmericaHygrostatsThermostatsHeatersFood & Beverage

Cooling Food & Beverage Applications with Pfannenberg’s DTS/DTT Series

Innovative, Efficient, Reliable

Whether in washdown locations or control rooms, the DTS Series key internal electronics are positioned away from potentially moist and/or caustic air in food and beverage applications.  The wide condenser fin spacing allows for filterless and maintenance-free operation.  The stainless steel units have an epoxy coating on all exposed copper tubing to compliment the electrostatically-coated condensers. The fans are conformal coated, backward curve impellers that have a standard life of 55,000+ hours, providing the longest life and best air flow in their class.

DTS Series Cooling Units

  • Active condensate management utilizes a PTC heater which eliminates the need for drain line.
  • NEMA Type 4/4X 304 Stainless Steel with #3 polish to repel contaminants in food grade applications and to provide for easy washdown.
  • High Temperature models can operate in ambient temperature models can operate in ambient temperatures up to 140° F (60° C), ideal near industrial ovens or baking lines.
  • Optional cover to protect fan if used in washdown or in high dust/debris areas.

DTT Series Top Mount Cooling Units

  • DTT Series Units provide convenient top mount cooling while eliminating the danger of condensate entering cabinets.
  • Innovative service panel design provides easy to change filters, controls and fuses, decreasing service time and allowing filters to be changed without downtime.
  • Product variety: multiple performance levels available.
  • Easy mounting: quick release mounting frame and quick mount design.

By keeping electronics in enclosures from overheating, Pfannenberg provides an invaluable service to companies, keeping their machinery and processes consistently operating.  By developing and producing products which are designed to save energy and other resources, Pfannenberg operates by their business philosophy – Protecting man, machine and the environment


Topics: Enclosure CoolingCooling UnitsThermal ManagementNorth AmericaFood & Beverage

Pfannenberg Food & Beverage Applications: Air/Water Heat Exchangers

The Complete Liquid-Cooled Solution for F&B Industrial Control Enclosures

For over 50 years Pfannenberg has been a leader in thermal management solutions.  From simple Fan Cooling and Packaged Air Conditioners to more complex water cooled applications, our expertise helps ensure industrial electronics operate at peak efficiency and extended service life.

Pfannenberg’s Air To Water Heat Exchangers offer a solutions to fix your thermal management problems in washdown areas of the plant or areas with high amounts of particulate . The sealed cabinet provides contaminant-free component cooling without adding heat to the local environment.  It provides an excellent economic solution where plant water is available or when used in conjunction with a process chiller.  It’s sealed design and available stainless steel, NEMA Type 4/4X construction provides a maintenance free solution with no exposed fans or maintenance of filters required.

Typical Food and Beverage Applications:

  • Ingredient Mixers
  • Product Cooling/Drying
  • Packaging Automation Equipment
  • Inspection Machines
  • Oven Controls

For applications which require local enclosure cooling using a remotely located source of refrigeration, PWS Series Air To Water Heat Exchangers provide the perfect solution.  Paired with our CC or  EB Series Chillers, the air to water heat exchanger provides a total cooling solution that manages process and/or control enclosure heat gain and effectively removes it from the processing area.  Single source responsibility for the complete system ensures properly matched components that are engineered to work together – and to provide a custom fit to the most complex food processing equipment.


Topics: Air To Water Heat ExchangersEnclosure CoolingCooling UnitsThermal ManagementNorth AmericaWater CoolingPackaged ChillersFood & Beverage

Filterfans® – Essential to Food and Beverage Applications


Pfannenberg’s Filterfans® –  “Trust in the Original”

Proper cooling is essential for temperature regulation for the electronics used in a food and beverage facility.

Pfannenberg’s Filterfans® incorporate modern louvers which enable maximal airflow, hold back dust/flour and water particles, protect the filter medium from damage and can be integrated into the design of the application. Filterfans are an ideal cooling solution when the ambient air is always lower than the temperature required in the electrical enclosure. This assists the natural convection of the air and avoids hot spots within the enclosure.

Pfannenberg is the inventor of the Filterfan®, with 50 years of experience and continuous development. 


Why Choose Pfannenberg’s Filterfans®

  • Reduced Energy Consumption – More air, less power consumption
  • NEMA Type Protection – Closed frame prevents unfiltered air from passing
  • Patented Tool-Less 4 Corner Fastening System – Possible to install in seconds
  • Aesthetically Pleasing Design Using Neutral Colors – Prefect harmony of colors with modern machines and plants
  • Highest System Airflow in Industry – Via optimized louvres
  • 300% Longer Service Time via Patented Fluted Filter Mat – This saves time and money

These time-tested products can be seamlessly incorporated into even the most demanding food and beverage processing or packaging applications.

Topics: FilterfansThermal ManagementNorth AmericaFood & Beverage

Liquid Cooling Solutions for Commercial Bakery Electrical Enclosures


Are the VFDs in your Commercial Bakery failing due to high amounts of flour and moisture entering your electrical enclosure?

Pfannenberg is your proven partner for complex thermal management problems in the baking industry. High security classes of equipment and corrosion-resistant construction materials resist even the most difficult ambient conditions.

Looking for another energy savings solution? Pfannenberg’s PWS Air To Water Heat Exchangers are ideal for cooling your electrical components. Designed for maintenance free operation in the most demanding areas of a plant.

Click here to download the NEW Pfannenberg Bakery Flyer!

Also, be sure to visit us at IBIE 2016 in Las Vegas, NV — October 8th-11th at Booth #9247!

Topics: Air Water Heat ExchangersEnclosure CoolingCooling UnitsThermal ManagementNorth AmericaWater CoolingFood & Beverage

The Advantages of Air To Water Heat Exchangers for Thermal Management in Harsh Environments


Money-saving approach yields longer service life while conserving energy.

Control Panel Cooling Technique Helps Mitigate Hydrogen Sulfide Corrosion Problems with Wastewater Pumping Systems

Air To Water Heat Exchangers provide an energy efficient and reduced manintenance method for cooling electrical control panels.

Enclosure Cooling Units offer a straightforward active-cooling technique for pump control panels, however, they are not necessarily the best choice for all installation locations. Dirt, dust, and other airborne contaminants can clog condenser coils; while corrosive gasses in the environment can lead to premature failures.On the other hand, Air To Water Heat Exchangers can satisfy the same requirements without circulating ambient air within the housing, thereby eliminating the clogging and corrosion problems associated with airborne contamination.

A common threat to organic wastewater handling and treatment systems is the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. Not only is this gas toxic to humans, but it also contributes heavily to corrosion problems in pipes, structures, instrumentation, and electrical systems. Lift stations and pumping systems are particularly vulnerable as H2S sour gas readily attacks copper used in wires, electrical contacts, and cooling units used on motor control centers (MCC’s).

Electronics cooling is vital for MCC’s containing the variable frequency drives (VFD’s) that are used to maintain efficient operation by conserving energy through regulating the speed at which pumps operate. Since VFD’s generate a considerable amount of heat, it is necessary to employ an active enclosure cooling technique in order to keep VFD’s operating within acceptable temperature limits. The absence of effective cooling will quickly allow VFD’s to overheat, shut down, or even catastrophically fail. In addition to being an economic loss, such outages disrupt production and affect the efficiency of plant operations.

Effective electrical enclosure cooling for environments where H2S gas is present must utilize a closed loop technique to ensure that sour gas is not introduced into the enclosure where it could harm wiring, electrical connections, switches, and other components. In fact, for many installations it is advantageous to deploy an air or nitrogen purge system which creates a positive pressure within the enclosure in order to keep undesirable ambient elements, including sour gas, outside of it. As opposed to an open loop system that uses fans to draw ambient air into and push heat out of the enclosure, a closed loop system maintains isolation of the ambient air and permits the NEMA rating of the electrical enclosure to be maintained. Examples of closed loop cooling equipment for electrical enclosures include cooling units (also known as enclosure air conditioners or enclosure AC) and Air To Water Heat Exchangers.

Cooling units offer the advantage of a being a plug and play solution – they simply hang onto the outside of the enclosure and are connected to power already available inside the enclosure. However, these compressor-based refrigeration systems consume a fair amount of energy and require periodic maintenance. Additionally, to endure the sour gas environment, exposed copper pipes and condenser coils must be treated with a conformal coating – which is not necessarily standard. Over time, the need to clean condenser coils – which may require partial disassembly of the cabinet – can lead to scratched paint, compromised coatings, and eventual corrosion.

Air To Water Heat Exchangers offer several advantages making them the preferred method for closed-loop, electrical enclosure cooling. Acquisition and operating expenses are significantly lower than those of a compressor-based cooling unit.

Additionally, this product is virtually maintenance free and since there is no ambient air circulation within the unit, there is no risk of H2S sour gas corrosion to internal components.

There are, however, two challenges with acquiring and implementing these units:

  • The units must be specified as the solution of choice with the MCC or pump system integrator.
  • The units must be connected to a viable source of clean water or coolant to circulate through the heat exchanger coil.

Another viable implementation is to consider retrofitting cooling units with air-to-water heat exchangers. This modification can be readily accomplished without difficulty since some units share the same enclosure cut-out. For dissimilar cutouts, an adaptor plate may be required to reduce the size of the opening.

Click here to download the Case study in PDF

Need more information on Pfannenberg’s PWS Air to Water Heat Exchangers? Click here and discover all the advantages of this product!


Topics: Air To Water Heat ExchangersEnclosure CoolingThermal ManagementWater CoolingWater TreatmentWastewater Treatment