Last updated on February 6th, 2024 at 09:51 pm

There are many different uses and applications for electric heating elements in various processing and industrial manufacturing industries. One of the most common heating elements within this field is electric infrared heaters (interchangeably called “IR” or radiant heaters). Electric heating elements such as these aid manufacturing and industrial processes primarily by maintaining substances (such as adhesives or oil residue) at the correct temperature needed for efficient processing. Infrared heaters are ideal for a variety of reasons.

First, the radiant method of heating is energy efficient. This means the electric heating elements have a great spot in the modern, green world.

Second, electric infrared heaters are most helpful in heavy-duty projects that require high temperatures and high intensity.

Third, the specifications and method of heating for electric infrared heaters make the heating elements easy to clean and maintain. As well, they are cost-effective in comparison to other available options.

Finally, infrared heaters are ideal for the industrial sector because they can be applied across many industries, from the medical and automotive industries to the mining, oil and gas industries.

Infrared Heaters

Infrared radiant heaters are also commonly used in industrial settings as space heaters for large areas, such as ice rinks, aircraft hangars, and parking garages. There are two primary forms of electric heating elements: direct heaters and indirect heaters.

Direct immersion heaters, as the name implies, immerse the main heating element directly into the liquid, while indirect heaters conduct heat through radiation or convection. As a result, infrared heaters are considered indirect immersion heaters since the heating element transfers heat to and maintain the temperature of the given liquid. The heater uses radiation, rather than direct contact. In this way, electric infrared heaters are energy efficient, as they transfer entirely electric power into heating the liquid or substance, with very letter energy lost along the way.

Industrial Infrared Heaters

Infrared heaters in an industrial setting are heavy-duty units designed to emit high-intensity heat. This is achieved by using tubular elements that can be easily replaced if the needed arises. The tubes of the heating element frequently use quartz elements. This allows them to bear the high temperatures associated with their use. The rest of the heater is usually stainless steel to ensure long-lasting usage.

The tubes can also be equipped with waterproof casing to protect the heating element from moisture penetration such as humidity. Electric infrared heaters are usually paired with digital or mechanical controls, making the application of the heating element virtually limitless.  Infrared heaters have begun to be used in the medical field. This is as professionals have realized that the heating elements are effective in separating blood platelets. The heating elements are used in the automotive industry in drying adhesive materials more efficiently, and in the mining, oil and gas industry to clean crude oil tanks. Ultimately, electric infrared heaters are most useful in heavy-duty, high-temperature products. This is because of their efficiency, ease of use and maintenance, and versatility of applications.