Feature

The evolution of enclosure thermostats

What did enclosure climatisation look like in the old times – and how has it evolved since? Here, DPA gains a rare insight into this from the founders of STEGO, which has been involved in thermal management technology for over 40 years.

02/08/2023 10:52:51

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Before STEGO came into existence, enclosures and panels were heated with a lit light bulb that was, so to speak, in continuous operation. Those were the times before enclosure heaters were available. When the industry finally started using special heaters for enclosures and cabinets, STEGO, too, took part in the business, with its first enclosure heaters. These were called ‘Heiz-Igel’ (meaning ‘heating hedgehog’, from the look of the heater).

At the time, these heaters were not regulated and, as a result, ran in continuous operation, as there were no enclosure thermostats at that time either. This has proven to be a significant disadvantage, as there is no upper temperature limit in a panel if the heater runs non-stop: permanently high temperatures limit the service life of other devices installed in the cabinet.

Read the full article in DPA's August issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.