Will a sealed PLA enclosure for electronics let in humidity/moisture if not exposed directly to water?
I'm looking to print an enclosure for a low voltage project (think Arduino board in the enclosure). The enclosure will be located outside, but in a protected location so that there is no direct sunlight, rain or snow hitting it. The cover (also PLA) will be sealed tightly.
I know that a PLA vase isn't water-tight and will slowly seep water. My question is, when it's raining and the outside environment is at 100% humidity, will that humidity permeate through the PLA enclosure so that the inside of the box will also reach 100% humidity?
It's not so much that I'm concerned with the humidity level (although I am, kind of), but what concerns me more is if the temperature drops and the inside humidity level is that high, I'll get condensation.
Any insight would be appreciated. Thank you.
RE: Will a sealed PLA enclosure for electronics let in humidity/moisture if not exposed directly to water?
Humidity will come in outside. I have never seen 100% sealed.
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Chuck H
3D Printer Review Blog
RE: Will a sealed PLA enclosure for electronics let in humidity/moisture if not exposed directly to water?
You can lower the risk by sealing the outside of the box with spray-sealant (lack, pu, acrylic-painting-sealant etc) on the outside and a rubbergasket in a lip on the lid.
I'm using a local brand: https://www.biltema.se/bilvard/billackfarger/battringsfarger/klarlack-for-biltema-battringsfarg-400-ml-2000023759
It's normally used to seal touch-up paint for cars.
I use it on the inside of small pots for succulent plants i'm raising.
One other thing to consider, is that the electronics get warm, and if you dont have a great seal and moisture do get inside the box, it might be better to have a tiny hole in the bottom to let condensatioin drip out. As long as the electronic is powered, it will (almost always) dry itself first <- Your mileage may vary <-
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RE: Will a sealed PLA enclosure for electronics let in humidity/moisture if not exposed directly to water?
Paint is your friend here; it doesn't have to be @mrstoned's sealant unless water can pool on it. Two coats of enamel paint is enough.
For condensation it can help to profile the inside of the enclosure so that growing drops are conducted into some safe area before falling. This does mean that orientation is important when installing.
Cheerio,
RE: Will a sealed PLA enclosure for electronics let in humidity/moisture if not exposed directly to water?
One other thing to consider, is that the electronics get warm, and if you dont have a great seal and moisture do get inside the box, it might be better to have a tiny hole in the bottom to let condensatioin drip out. As long as the electronic is powered, it will (almost always) dry itself first <- Your mileage may vary <-
Hmmmm, I had considered that the electronics will get warm to be sure it won't get too hot. But I didn't consider that the heat might be my friend in this case. It may be enough to counteract some of the environment when it's cold out and reduce the amount of condensation. Thanks.