There has been a deluge of recent technological advancements that are creating new air curtain applications that were barely imaginable 10 years ago. Advancements range from more efficient electric heaters to manufacturing improvements that now extend lengths up to 16 feet. Air curtains that were once only custom-manufactured with explosion- and spark-proof components for hazardous industrial locations are now standardized catalog items. What was once an energy-saving device for industrial shipping doors is now embraced by retail, hotel, restaurant, and food service operators as tools for saving energy, eliminating flying insect infiltration, and increasing employee comfort.
Air curtains, also known as air doors, are typically mounted inside the top of a doorway and continually discharge a steady stream of air down the threshold to separate indoor and outdoor environments. The airstream keeps unwanted cold or hot air from infiltrating an open doorway during winter or summer, respectively. The units also keep out flying insects and maintain a comfortable working environment for employees.