Drum heater

Types of drum heaters

Drum heaters are essential pieces of equipment used to heat products stored in drums. Depending on the structure and purpose, drum heaters can be classified into several categories.

• Wrap around drum heater: Wrap-around drum heaters have a simple structure. They consist of heating elements and insulation. Users can wrap the heater around a drum to heat the content. The flexibility of wrap-around drum heaters makes them suitable for heating drams with different shapes and sizes.
• Heat jacket: Heat jackets for drums are a combination of heating elements and outer jackets. The heating elements are usually electric wires or electric films, which are sewn or stuck to the inner side of the outer jackets. Heat jackets work by creating heat-transfer layers between the jackets and the drum. This layer ensures that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the drum. Also, heat jackets can protect drums from being damaged by high temperatures.
• Floor drum heater: Floor drum heaters are flat heating pads that users place on the floor. They usually have built-in thermostats to control the heating temperature. This feature allows users to set the desired temperature for the heater. Also, the compact size and lightweight of floor drum heaters make them easy for users to carry around.
• Drum heater with temperature control: This kind of heater controls the temperature through feedback loops. They usually have digital displays, setting buttons, and temperature sensors. The temperature sensor is used to detect the current temperature of the drum. Then, it reports the information to the digital display. The setting buttons allow users to set parameters and adjust the heating temperature ranges as needed. Also, some heaters with temperature control may have a programmable setting function that allows users to set a heating schedule and automate the operation.

Specification and Maintenance

The following specifications should be considered when purchasing a drum heating element:

• Power: The power is usually measured in watts, which will indicate its heating capacity. Higher power drum heaters will heat the contents faster and have a greater heating capacity. Business buyers need to choose the suitable power according to their use.
• Voltage: Buyers need to ensure that the voltage of the drum heater matches the site's power supply so that it can be used normally.
• Temperature control: Some drum heaters are equipped with digital displays and adjustable temperature controls. This can allow users to set the required heating temperature, which is essential for applications that require precise control of heating.
• Heating surface area: The heating surface area of a drum heater is the area of contact between the heater and the drum (or container). A larger heating surface area will ensure that the heat is distributed evenly over the entire drum, thereby reducing the risk of hot spots.
• Heater material: The heater material of a drum heater is the material used to make the heater. It is necessary to choose the appropriate heater material according to the heating medium and temperature requirements to ensure the efficiency and safety of the heating.
• Heating element: The heating element of a drum heater is the component that generates heat. Common heating elements include silicone rubber heating tapes, heating wires, heating films, etc. Different types of heating elements have different characteristics and applications.

Drum heaters require proper maintenance to ensure they operate properly. The following maintenance tips will help business buyers keep their industrial drum heaters in optimal condition:

• Clean: Regularly clean the external surface of the heater to remove dust, dirt, etc. Wipe it with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or materials to avoid scratching the surface.
• Avoid water: Keep the heater dry. Avoid getting it wet or using it in a humid environment to prevent electric shock and damage.
• Avoid overheating: Prevent overheating of the heater. Check the settings and function of the thermostat regularly to ensure they are working properly. Don't leave the heater on for a long time without supervision.
• Avoid overloading: Avoid overloading the heater's rated power. Use it with the appropriate power supply to prevent damage and safety hazards.

Usage scenarios of a drum heater

Industries that deal with materials such as wax, honey, asphalt, frost, chocolate, and epoxy resin often use drum heaters to ensure the material is at the correct viscosity for easy dispensing.

They are very useful in construction industries, especially hot mix plants, drum heaters for bitumen are essential. They preheat and maintain the temperature of bitumen to ensure it flows and pumps easily during construction projects.

Logistics and supply chain management companies use drum heaters to maintain a constant temperature in chemical and food products while in transit or storage. This helps to prevent spoilage and ensure product integrity.

Manufacturing industries that use plastic, rubber, and paint often install drum heaters in their storage tanks to ensure the materials are at the right temperature and viscosity for easy processing and handling.

Drum heaters are also used to warm up equipment and tools such as hydraulic machines and cement. Heating these machines helps to improve fluidity, which in turn enhances operational efficiency.

Drum heaters can also be used during winter to thaw frozen pipes and equipment in order to avoid cracks and other damages. They are also used to heat up backup generators before they are fired up during cold weather to ensure they operate smoothly.

How to choose a drum heater

• Business needs analysis:

  Fit for purpose is the first box to tick when choosing a heater. Consider what temperature the business needs to heat the drum contents to and if the desired temperature can be reached with the drum heater. Also, check if the heater can heat the contents evenly at that temperature. For example, a drum heater for viscous liquids like molasses may not suit a heater for drum heating water.

• Drum compatibility:

  Verify the heater's compatibility with the material and shape of the drum. Standard drums have a diameter of 22.5 inches and a height of 27.5 inches, with 55 gallons (approximately 210 liters) of capacity. Ensure the heater will fit the drum if it is another shape or size.

• Operating environment:

  Consider the environment the heater will be in and choose a heater that can operate well in that space. For example, a drum heater may need to be waterproof to operate in wet environments, or it may need to work in an explosive atmosphere, calling for a hazardous location rating.

• Power supply:

  A drum heater's power source determines how far the business can go from power supplies. For example, a 240V AC drum heater will not be suitable for use in a location with no access to mains electricity, but a portable propane gas heater will be.

• Cost:

  Consider the upfront cost of purchasing the drum heater and the long-term cost of operating it. Higher power heaters cost more to run, so consider how often and for how long the heater will be in use. Sticking to a budget is important, but the cheapest option is not always the best in the long run.

Drum heater Q&A

Q1: What kind of power supply does the drum heater use?

A1: AC power supplies, such as 220V, 240V, or 380V, are commonly used in industrial drum heaters. Nonetheless, it is achievable to design heaters for alternative power sources such as solar energy, car power, or generator power.

Q2: How long does it take for the drum heater to heat up?

A2: The time taken for the drum heater to heat up depends on several factors: the wattage of the heater, the initial temperature of the material, the desired temperature, and the size and material of the drum. For example, a 1000-watt heater can heat up a drum (55 gallons) containing liquid at around 5 gallons per minute in a temperature increase of 10 degrees.

Q3: Can a drum heater be used to thaw frozen materials?

A3: Yes. Drum heaters can be used to thaw frozen materials by gradually increasing the temperature of the drum and its contents.

Q4: Can a drum heater be used outdoors?

A4: Outdoor use heaters are recommended in dry conditions. Operating heaters in damp or wet conditions may cause electrical hazards and equipment damage. A drum heater with an outdoor PVC blanket is suitable for outdoor use.

Q5: Can a drum heater be used to heat something other than a drum?

A5: Yes. A kettle heater can be used to heat other containers. However, evaluating the heater's suitability for the particular vessel is critical. Consider the size, form, and materials of the container. Ensure even heating and avoid any risk of ignition or reaction by doing so.