Electrically powered air curtains and door heaters are devices used to maintain indoor temperatures by creating a barrier of air between two different temperature zones, typically an indoor space and the outdoor environment. They are commonly installed above entrances, such as doors and windows, in commercial and industrial settings. Here's how they work:
Air Barrier Creation: Electric air curtains use a high-velocity stream of air to create an invisible barrier at the entrance. This air barrier acts as a separation between the indoor and outdoor air masses, preventing the exchange of heat, humidity, and contaminants.
Temperature Equalization: When an exterior door is opened, there's usually a significant temperature difference between the indoor and outdoor environments. Without any form of separation, warm indoor air can escape, and cold outdoor air can enter, causing energy losses and discomfort. Air curtains help mitigate this by preventing the mixing of air masses, thus reducing the heat transfer and maintaining indoor comfort.
Air Recirculation: Electric air curtains can also recirculate the indoor air. By pulling in indoor air and blowing it out in a directed manner, they can help maintain a more uniform temperature distribution throughout the indoor space. This can reduce temperature stratification and improve overall comfort.
Heating Element: Many electric air curtains are equipped with heating elements. These heating elements warm up the air before it's blown out, ensuring that the air barrier maintains a higher temperature compared to the outdoor air. This helps counteract the cold air that may be entering through an open door.
Fan System: The electric air curtain has a powerful fan system that propels the air out at a high velocity, creating a strong and effective barrier. The force of the air stream is what prevents the outdoor air from infiltrating the indoor space.
Controls and Sensors: Modern electric air curtains often come with advanced controls and sensors. These sensors can detect when a door is opened and activate the air curtain accordingly. They can also adjust the fan speed and heating elements based on the temperature difference and the intensity of traffic.
Energy Efficiency: While electric air curtains consume electricity to operate, they can still contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the need for continuous heating or cooling in response to temperature fluctuations caused by open doors. By minimizing heat loss or gain, they help maintain stable indoor temperatures, which can lead to energy savings over time.
In summary, electrically powered air curtains and door heaters maintain indoor temperatures by creating a barrier of air that prevents the exchange of heat and contaminants between indoor and outdoor environments. They achieve this through a combination of air recirculation, heating elements, high-velocity air streams, and advanced controls.