Twin Skin (Solar Shielded) Cabinets

Effectively creating shade to the internal chamber of a cabinet. Research into the effects that solar radiation has on enclosures shows positive benefits when utilizing the dual skin or solar shielding to decrease the temperature rise within a cabinet.

Shielding has been found to be a very effective, low-cost passive method of reducing solar heat gain in outdoor electrical or communications applications. The side solar shields are vented top and bottom which allows air to flow between the skins and eliminate the build-up of heat, which could then transfer into the inner chamber.

Other Passive Considerations

Simple devices - such as louvers or grilles and filters are appropriate for ventilation, if maintaining a cool, constant temperature is not a critical factor.

Effect of surrounding location - reflection of solar enery from the foreground and surrounding surfaces can affect the total amount of radiant exposure by as much as 30%.

Effect of enclosure colour - The per cent of solar energy absorbed by the enclosure depends on surface colour, finish and texture. Absorption values of the finish will increase with age. Higher temperature rises can be expected with unfinished aluminium and unfinished stainless steel enclosures due to their materials less efficient radiant heat transfer.