Rittal has introduced a new generation of Blue e+ fan-and-filter units designed to improve the climate control of enclosures. These units include innovative features such as an emergency cooling function and tool-free handling, ensuring the reliable operation of installed components.
Fan-and-filter units are commonly used for regulating the temperature within enclosures using ambient air. The Blue e+ fan-and-filter units provide a smarter approach to cooling system maintenance. The emergency cooling function activates in response to unexpected temperature rises, protecting components from overheating and preventing system shutdowns.
The new units feature improved mechanical components for tool-free mounting and maintenance. The snap-in hooks for mounting and the opening mechanism for filter replacement have been refined for smoother operation. Features such as the simple reversal of airflow direction and flexible power connection positioning have been retained. The design now includes vertically arranged grille slats, without compromising the protection rating.
Available in five sizes, the Blue e+ fan-and-filter units cover eight output classes, ranging from 15 CFM to 683 CFM (20 m3/h to 1,160 m3/h) air throughput. The units include AC/DC models and an EMC variant for applications requiring electromagnetic shielding. EC technology allows for speed control and fan monitoring via an analogue interface, adapting temperature regulation to actual conditions, thus saving energy and extending service life. Additional benefits include a wide power input range (100–240 V) and a ModBus interface for monitoring, control, and alarm functionalities.
The Rittal IoT interface integration allows fan-and-filter units to provide information on status, capacity utilization, operating hours, and energy consumption. This feature enables operators to identify the source of critical heat build-ups and activate the emergency cooling function if the temperature exceeds a set threshold. The fan speed increases to delay overheating and returns to normal once the temperature drops.
The new generation also features an automatic filter cleaning function, which blows dust particles out of the filter several times a day. Operators can set a virtual operating period to display the time remaining until the next filter replacement, similar to a fuel gauge, facilitating maintenance planning.
The pleated filters in the Blue e+ units have a surface area six times larger than standard filters, increasing air throughput by 40% and potentially doubling or tripling maintenance intervals. These features elevate the Blue e+ fan-and-filter units to a new standard in enclosure climate control.