| Objects on display are susceptible to excesses of temperature and changes in temperature. The most common source of heat on objects is natural and artificial light radiation. This light radiation together with invisible UV and IR radiation is converted to heat, on the surface of an object and can lead to localised swelling, drying and distortions in the of an object e.g. the crazing on the surface of an oil painting.
It is essential to avoid light sources inside display cases unless they do not emit heat. A separate well ventilated enclosure external to the case will help limit temperature variations, even then convection action may cause an increase in temperature inside the display case. Fibre optics heads can be placed inside display case as these heads are as the light source, even then the light source must be placed outside the display case to isolate the source of heat. Fluorescent lighting control gear also emits considerable heat and should also be placed externally to a display case.
It is also advisable to limit the extent of this light radiation to 200 or 50 lux as outlined in light section, this in turn will help regulate heat produced.
Temperature levels desirable for objects on display must also be balanced with the comfort of visitors and staff present in the gallery space. In the UK's climate this will require optimum control of the environmental heating, and environmental cooling if present. Keep objects away from heat and cooling sources as these may also cause localised deterioration of objects
Recommendations
- Gallery temperature should be as kept as low as is comfortable for visitors and staff.
- Temperature fluctuations must be controlled.
- Light sources should be kept away from objects.
- Only cold light sources should be used inside showcases.
- Objects should be kept away from sources of heat.
- Temperature fluctuations should be monitored regularly and results recorded.
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