Maximizing recessed radiators

STEAM DOCTOR

Good evening to all. I have a customer with a bunch of radiators similar to the convector type radiators found toward the back of EDR. Basically small radiators not much larger then modern day baseboard. Currently the radiators are enclosed on all six sides, with a small slit at the bottom of the front part of the enclosure and a similar slit at the top. All six sides of the radiators are covered with some sort of sheet metal. Will this type of enclosure maximize the heat output of the radiator or would he be better off with front cover removed entirely?



P.S. Part of the front of the enclosure will definitely need to be removed. Currently,the air vents and shutoff valves are inaccessible.

STEAM DOCTOR

Enclosures

I just took another look at the section in EDR that deals with radiator enclosures. I didn't find anything exactly like what I was describing. However,it would seed better to have something in front with an opening at top and bottom rather then an opining in front. Please correct me if I am wrong. Thank you.

Steamhead

Maybe something like this?

http://www.heatinghelp.com/article/158/Radiators/1269/Herman-Nelson-Invisible-Radiators



http://www.heatinghelp.com/article/158/Radiators/1280/Trane-Heat-Cabinets



http://www.heatinghelp.com/article/158/Radiators/1271/How-to-Select-and-Install-Trane-Concealed-Heaters

STEAM DOCTOR

Thanks

Thank you steamhead for a most interesting and informative read. Bottom line is that there should be an opening at the bottom and an opening at the top. This will maximize the chimney effect. What gauge sheet metal is recommended for inside of wall cavity? For that matter, is sheet metal the material of choice to enclose the cavity or can other materials be used? I am assuming that the cavity should be enclosed by materials that reflect hot air and don't absorb the hot air. Also, does it make a difference if the roof of the wall cavity is flat or sloped?

Thanks again for all the info and expertise.

ChicagoCooperator

Trane Convectors

I have the Trane concealed heaters described in the pdf which have (I think) custom built sheet metal chimney's with a wooden access panel in front to allow access to the convector and trap (2-pipe steam). The tops are square, but the damper effectively makes a curve when they are open.



I've attached two photos with the cover off - some have a metal shield covering the fins to direct air flow up.