Ventilation

Filter fans – effective control cabinet fans for every application

Efficient control cabinet ventilation is crucial for extending the service life of electrical components and ensuring the safe, trouble-free operation of your systems. With a suitable control cabinet fan, you can prevent overheating, reduce downtime, and ensure consistent temperature management in the switch cabinet.
Whether for industrial controls, machines, or sensitive electronics, our filter fans and outlet filters ensure reliable cooling and provide lasting protection for your technology.

Filterlüfter

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a control cabinet fan, and what is it used for?

A filter fan blows filtered fresh air from outside into the control cabinet. It is usually mounted on the bottom or front of the cabinet, and its filter prevents dust and dirt from entering. An exhaust fan (also known as an exhaust filter) vents the heated air from the cabinet to the outside and is typically located in the upper section, since warm air rises. Together, these two components form a complete control cabinet ventilation system.

When is control cabinet ventilation sufficient, and when do I need a cooling unit?

Control cabinet ventilation with a filter fan is sufficient if the ambient temperature is significantly lower than the desired internal temperature of the control cabinet. As soon as the outside temperature exceeds the inside temperature—for example, in midsummer or in hot production halls—ventilation alone is no longer sufficient, and an active cooling unit is required.

What voltages are available for control cabinet fans?

Lm-therm control cabinet fans are available in various voltage options, including the standard 230 V AC (alternating current for standard mains) and 24 V DC (direct current for control circuits). In addition to these, there are also fans with a wide voltage range of 100–230 V AC.

How do I choose the right filter fan for my control cabinet?

The key factors for selection are: the required airflow (m³/h) based on the power dissipation of the components, the mounting size (to fit the cutout opening in the cabinet), the operating voltage, and the desired protection rating. As a rule of thumb: The higher the power dissipation of the installed devices, the higher the airflow rate of the control cabinet filter fan must be.

What is an exhaust filter, and is it absolutely necessary?

An exhaust filter is the exhaust outlet of the control cabinet ventilation system. It allows heated air to escape from the cabinet while simultaneously preventing dirt from entering through the exhaust opening from the outside. It is absolutely necessary for the control cabinet ventilation to function correctly: Without an outlet filter, no defined airflow is created and the cooling effect is greatly reduced.

How often does the control cabinet air filter need to be cleaned or replaced?

The cleaning intervals for the control cabinet air filter depend heavily on the level of environmental contamination. In dusty industrial environments, a monthly check may be necessary; in clean environments, a six-month interval is often sufficient. A clogged control cabinet filter significantly reduces airflow and can lead to overheating. Regular maintenance is therefore essential.

Can I retrofit a control cabinet fan?

Yes, filter fans can be easily retrofitted into existing control cabinets. To do this, a suitable cutout is made in the control cabinet wall and the filter fan is installed. Lm-therm offers models in standard sizes that are compatible with common cutout dimensions.

What is the difference between control cabinet ventilation and control cabinet cooling?

Control cabinet ventilation draws outside air through the cabinet and is only effective when the ambient temperature is cooler than the internal temperature of the control cabinet. Control cabinet cooling with compressor or Peltier cooling units, on the other hand, operates in a closed loop, actively cools the cabinet, and keeps it sealed.

What accessories are required for a complete control cabinet ventilation system?

A complete ventilation system for the control cabinet consists of at least one filter fan (supply air, bottom), an exhaust filter/exhaust fan (exhaust air, top), and a thermostat that temperature-controls the fan. A hygrostat for humidity monitoring is recommended as an option. Lm-therm offers all these components as a coordinated system.

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