Radiant Heating with Infrared Heaters: Types and Applications

An Introduction to Infrared Heaters

Infrared heaters are commonly used in large indoor and outdoor areas that transfer heat energy through electromagnetic radiation. Shopping malls, gymnasium, storage chambers are a few examples where these devices are installed to keep the internal temperature stabilized. The other applications include food stalls and restaurants to keep edible items hot, especially meat made products.  

What Is Radiant Heating

The process to transfer heat energy via infrared heater is known as radiant heating. The heat is similar in nature to that of sunlight, which is why it is also known as a synthetic means to provide warmth.

Technicalities

Different type of these heaters basically vary depending on the wavelength of infrared radiation that ranges from 780 nm to 1 mm. Check out below for classifications.

• Such infrared heating devices that emit heat having visible light are known as shortwave heaters. Their wavelength lies between 780 to 1,400 nm which can easily be observed with a naked eye.
• Medium wavelength ranges between 1,400 to 3,000 nm. Slightly visible from normal eyesight.
• Such heaters having infra-radiation above 3,000 are known as “Far-infrared or dark emitters”. Non-visible to a human eye.  

Elements Used

In electrical infrared heating devices, tungsten wire is commonly used as a filament, which is shaped like a coil providing more surface area. Low-quality alternatives for tungsten are carbon, iron alloy, aluminum and chromium. Carbon heats up quite rapidly as compared to other filament materials.

Gold coating over quartz tube is used in infrared heaters during industrial processes, which directly emanate heat towards the targeted product. Gold is considered to have a higher infrared reflective feature and is prone to oxidation.

Applications

IR heating devices are generally used in the following processes.

• For shrinking, welding and heating plastic before giving it a specific shape
• Treating of glass and metal via high temperature
• In cooking
• In zoos and veterinary clinics to provide warmth to tropical reptiles, amphibians and birds
• Curative treatment of coatings

Possible Health Effects

Different tests and experiments were performed over IR heaters and their effects on human skin and health in case of prolonged exposure. Details are given as follows.

• High-intensity shortwave IR radiation causes thermal burn if the device is placed too close.
• Workers and engineers like welders, glass blowers often complain of itching and burning in the eyes.

Common reason for this is the de-pigmentation of iris and weakening of aqueous humor. However, if preventive measures are taken prior getting exposed to the device, you can easily reduce the above-mentioned ailments.  

Primary Aspects

Check out below for some of the basic features you will get using infrared heating tools via radiant heating.

• The heat is provided rapidly when device is turned ON. Similarly, it also cools down within moments after powering off.
• Many different sizes, watt densities and filament materials available in market for you to choose from.

All the Benefits You Will Get

Flexible design and outlook for easy handling

• Simple to install, maintain and cleanup without any hassle
• Eco and budget friendly
• Maximum output with minimum heat dissipation
• Easy to carry and attuned to local power outlet
• Long lasting with robust technology
• Anti-corrosive and oxidant  

For further details and information, feel free to visit https://www.wattco.com/product_category/infrared-radiant-heaters/