C h a p t e r 1
In the context of harsh environments, one
of the greatest areas of concern is water
and moisture. Moisture is damaging to
electronics. Pure water is not corrosive;
however, in most applications, water
contains chemicals or particles. Tap water
often contains disinfectants to prevent
bacterial growth, making the water fit
to drink, while rainwater often carries
dust and chemicals produced by both
natural and human-made processes.
These contaminants create electrically
conductive water, which allows unwanted
electricity to flow between components.
These short circuits can result in
overloaded circuits or even pose safety
risks to users.
Moisture can threaten electronics even
in the absence of standing water. In most
climates, moisture is present in the air,
and this humidity will affect electrical
performance. Some insulation materials,
such as those used in cables and
connectors, absorb moisture from humid
environments. This absorption can cause
reduced electrical resistance, creating
paths through which an unwanted
electrical current can pass.
Moreover, humidity reduces the electrical
resistance of the air itself. Some designs
rely on an air gap to provide separation
between high-voltage lines. High humidity
requires that users reduce electrical loads
to provide a sufficient margin of safety.
WATER AND ELECTRICITY
Nida Qamar
Electrical Engineer, Powertech
Humid environments lead to
corrosion and insulation breakdown,
requiring robust sealing and
protection for electrical components.
In urban areas, these components
also face high pollution levels,
extreme temperatures, and vibrations
from heavy traffic and construction,
which can cause mechanical failures."
6
Understanding Harsh Environments for Electronic Design
