What Are Calrod Heaters?

Calrod tubular heaters are electric tubular heaters used to produce radiant heat in an application. Calrod heating elements are found in incoloy, stainless steel, steel alloys and are used in many applications such as kitchen appliances, flange heaters, screw plug heaters and over the side heaters. Watt density for Calrod heaters vary as they can be used in air and liquid applications, and are also used in mould designs to help with heat transfer from the Calrod heater to the steel or aluminum mould.

The Calrod elements come in a variety of shapes and forms and also come in four specific common diameters: 0.315, 0.375, 0.430 and 0.475 inch diameters. Calrod heaters can be terminated with common 10-32 screws or have special terminals to assist in electrical connections. Calrod heaters in air applications should have a watt density of less than 25 Watts per square inch. Whereas Calrod elements for liquids should have densities of 30 WPSI (Glycol applications) or 65 WPSI (Water applications). Please consult with a Wattco representative for assistance on density.

Calrod heaters are normally mounted on the side of a wall using brass bushings and a nut that holds the element in place. We always suggested, depending on the shape and form of the element, to use brackets to prevent vibrations and to give the element additional structural support. Calrod elements might be susceptible to calcium deposits in water applications. This would require maintenance to prevent buildup and, eventual failure of the element from poor heat transfer into your medium. Water softening agents are an optional preventative measure.

Calrod Element Benefits

Calrod elements have quick heat up times and are used in applications that require durability and various changes in temperatures. The wire inside a Calrod element is NiCr (Nichrome resistor) and is the main source of heat. Calrod elements contain MgO (Magnesium Dioxide), which offers excellent heat transfer properties. The various types of products that use Calrod heaters are:

• Tubular Heater
• Duct Heaters
• Flanged Heaters
• Screw Plug Heaters
• Circulation Heaters
• Over the Side Heaters

Temperature controllers are popular for these applications. Mechanical thermostats are a useful addition for their low amperage qualities. For more accurate measurements, engineers opt for digital controllers that offer precise measurements. Contact Wattco today for more information on Calrod tubular heaters.