Infrared heater tube

Types of Infrared Heater Tubes

Infrared heater tubes come in various types, each with unique features and advantages.

• Carbon Infrared Heater Tube

  The carbon infrared heater tube is an electric heating element designed for air heating applications. It operates by oxidizing carbon particles, which emits infrared radiation that provides heat energy. One notable feature of carbon heater tubes is their cold start capability, allowing them to reach higher temperatures more quickly compared to ceramic heater tubes. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in situations requiring rapid heating. Additionally, carbon heater tubes are more efficient energy converters, transforming electricity into heat at a higher ratio. This efficiency results in lower energy consumption, ultimately leading to cost savings for users. Moreover, the immediate heat production of carbon heater tubes minimizes heat loss, ensuring that energy is utilized effectively.

• Ceramic Infrared Heater Tube

  Ceramic infrared heater tubes emit infrared radiation by heating a ceramic element. It consists of a coated metal tube. This metal tube acts as the substrate, which means the material on which something is placed or grow. The coating usually contains non-toxic, white, or off-white materials that can store heat. The ceramic material can absorb and store heat. This characteristic makes the heater provide heat over an area for a longer period even after turning off the electricity. When the ceramic heater tube is turned off, the ceramic material continues to release heat. Heat storage can help to reduce energy consumption.

• Halogen Infrared Heater Tube

  A halogen infrared heater tube uses halogen gas as its heat source. It typically contains a tungsten filament that produces light and heat. The tube operates by passing an electric current through the filament, which then heats up and emit light. This light is a visible representation of the heat energy being released. The halogen gas within the tube serves to enhance the efficiency and longevity of the heating element. It accomplishes this by facilitating a process known as filament rejuvenation or element reclamation, in which the halogen gas chemically reacts to redeposit tungsten back onto the filament after it has evaporated during operation. This cycle helps prevent the thinning of the filament, resulting in improved durability and prolonged use of the heater tubes.

Specifications and maintenance of infrared heater tubes

Infrared heater tubes are made by manufacturers in different specifications to suit diverse heating applications. The following are some of the key specifications with brief descriptions.

• Length: Infrared heater tubes come in varying lengths to fit different heating requirements. The typical lengths range from a few centimeters to over a meter. For example, short tubes are ideal for compact spaces, while long tubes provide extensive areas of heat.
• Diameter: The diameter of the infrared heater tube affects heat production and distribution. Wider tubes produce more radiant heat, while narrower tubes offer concentrated heat. The diameter ranges from small, one-inch sizes to larger, industrial-scale pipes.
• Power rating: This specification determines the heater's energy consumption and heat output. Infrared heater tubes with low power ratings are suitable for gentle heating, while those with high ratings produce intense heat. The power rating is measured in watts (W).
• Material: Infrared heater tubes are manufactured using different materials. Metal tubes can be made using brass, stainless steel, or carbon steel. The type of material used to make the tube affects its durability and heat output.

The lifespan of heater tubes depends on the material they are made of, maintenance, and usage. Typically, they can last anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 hours of continuous operation. Manufacturers recommend the following maintenance tips to ensure the heaters function appropriately and achieve their full lifespan.

• Prior to installation, ensure the heater tube is clean. Manufacturers advise against removing the packaging until it is ready for installation. This prevents dust accumulation on the heater surface.
• Install a reflector or shade to protect the heater from harsh environments or elements that could cause rapid degradation or uneven heating.
• Maintain a safe distance between the infrared heater and nearby objects to avoid overheating. Follow the tube manufacturer’s guidance for the recommended distance between heat sources and combustible materials.
• Regularly check power supply and connections. Loose connections or power supply interruptions can cause uneven heating or tube damage.
• When possible, use timers or thermostats to regulate the heating output of the infrared heater tube. Maintaining a consistent heating level prevents overheating and unnecessary tube wear.

Applications of infrared heater tube

• Industrial Manufacturing and Processing

  Infrared heating tubes are extensively used in various manufacturing industries. They're applied in the textile, plastic, paint, chemical, food, and packaging industries, among others, where infrared heater tubes are used for drying, curing, baking, heating, thawing, sterilization, and a wide range of other applications.

• Food Industry and Catering

  Infrared heater tubes also find great applications in the food industry and restaurants. In fast-food restaurants, some food infrared heaters are used to keep food warm for a long period. Also, infrared heater tubes can be applied in food processing for roasting, baking, drying, pasteurizing, sterilizing, and other procedures.

• Medical and Healthcare

  Infrared heater tubes can also be applied in the medical and healthcare sectors. Infrared heating lamps are usually used in incubators, phototherapy units, rehabilitation therapy, warming cabinets, and other medical equipment and facilities.

• Construction and Decoration

  Infrared heater tubes can also be applied to the construction and decoration industries. In these industries, they are usually used in the heat treatment of building materials, drying, curing, temperature maintenance, and other applications.

• Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

  Infrared heating tubes can also be used in the agriculture and animal husbandry industries. For example, they can be used in greenhouses for infrared tube heater growth, seedling cultivation, heating, etc., and they can be used for breeding heating and temperature regulation, among other applications.

• Automotive and Transportation

  Infrared heater tubes can also be used in the automotive and transportation sectors. These tubes can be used in automobile manufacturing for drying, curing, heating, and other processes. Besides, infrared heater tubes can be applied in vehicle maintenance and repair, as well as in the automotive aftermarket.

• Beauty and Personal Care

  Infrared heater tubes play an important role in the beauty and personal care industry. They might be used in beauty salons, spas, and other places for beauty treatments, body care, and more.

How to choose infrared heater tubes

When purchasing infrared heater tubes for retail, it helps to begin with the target audience. Customers will have different preferences and use purposes that dictate the type of infrared heater tube they need. For example, industrial users are less likely to buy a small 300-watt tube for their large workspace compared to a 1500-watt tube. If retail buyers use the infrared heat tubes for their homes, they will probably go for full-spectrum heat tubes with 0.9-0.8PF and 5-10%-20-30% humidity. Business buyers, on the other hand, retailing to commercial or industrial users, may need to stock more 1500-watt tubes with higher voltage.

It also helps to consider the number of customers in need of infrared heater tubes. For instance, if there is high demand for heat tubes in warehouses and large commercial spaces, it may make more sense to import more 1500-watt tubes, even if 300-watt infrared heater tubes are slightly cheaper, but in higher volumes.

Further, the purchasing decision may also depend on the storage capacity or capital of the wholesale buyer. It may be more practical to buy many 300-watt tubes in lieu of limited storage for heat tubes.

All types of infrared heater tubes have their advantages and disadvantages. For instance, customers with small homes may prefer to use energy-efficient infrared heater tubes in their homes to save on energy costs. In contrast, those living in colder climates may pay more for infrared heater tubes with higher wattage to keep their homes warm during the winter.

In general, if specifics about the expected lifespan, dimensions, voltage, and wattage of the infrared heat tube are unclear, it helps to consult with sellers to get more information before making a large purchase.

Infrared heater tube Q and A

Q1: What are the limitations of infrared heaters?

A1: Infrared heaters do have some limitations. They provide heat in a direct line rather than uniformly throughout a room. People who are off to the side may not feel the heat. Infrared heaters also heat objects rather than the air, which means that if there are many objects in a room, the heater may take a longer time to warm it up.

Q2: Do infrared heaters use a lot of electricity?

A2: The amount of electricity used by an infrared heater depends on its wattage and the duration it is kept switched on. For instance, a 1,500-watt heater consumes 1.5 kWh every hour it is running.

Q3: Are quartz heaters better than infrared?

A3: In comparison to infrared heater tubes, quartz heater elements warm up faster. Therefore, they may be a better choice in applications that require immediate heat delivery, such as space heating. However, both types of heaters have distinct benefits and limitations and are well-suited for specific uses.

Q4: Can you touch an infrared heater?

A4: Never touch the heating elements of an infrared heater tube; they get extremely hot. Touching them may cause immediate burns, and repeated contact may also cause damage to the heater.