Ceramic Infrared Heating Elements
Ceramic heater elements are among the most popular infrared radiant emitters on the market and can be applied to a diverse range of industrial and engineering processes. Typical heat applications include thermoforming, packaging, and annealing, as well as paint curing, printing, and drying. These robust ceramic heaters provide long-wave infrared radiation that’s both effective and efficient. Each ceramic infrared heater element operates up to 750°C (1382°F) producing infrared wavelengths in the 2 – 10 micron range. The standard voltage is 230V, and the standard wattage ranges from 100W to 1000W. Trough-style elements produce a concentrated output that disperses over distance, making them better suited to emitters positioned further from the target. Hollow style elements produce a uniform output, which is better suited to emitters positioned closer to the target material. Full technical data is available on each product page. Further information available on our infrared heat applications page or in our white paper reports. Our long-wave infrared ceramic elements are CE-marked for full quality assurance and compliance. No matter the market or industry, your customers can benefit from our complete range of products. This includes infrared heaters, emitters, ceramic elements, bulbs, components, and accessories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is infrared heat?
In scientific terms, infrared heat is a form of electromagnetic radiation that transfers thermal energy directly to objects, surfaces, and materials rather than heating the surrounding air. This method of heat transfer, known as radiant heating, delivers fast, efficient, and targeted heat.
Infrared radiation lies on the electromagnetic spectrum between visible light and microwaves. For industrial heating applications, infrared wavelengths typically range from 0.78 to 1,000 μm. Different wavelength ranges are selected based on the material being heated, the required heating speed, and the specific process or application.
How do I choose the best infrared emitter for my application?
Choosing the best infrared emitter depends on several factors, including the absorption characteristics of the target material, the required heating temperature, and the response time needed for the process.
If the absorption properties of the target material are known, the peak emission wavelength can be used to select the most suitable infrared emitter.
If those characteristics aren’t known, small scale testing with 1 or 2 emitters may be enough to provide a better understanding of what works with the material in question.
Another key factor is the thermal response time required by the process. Ceramic emitters typically require about 10-12 minutes to reach steady-state temperature. Quartz cassette emitters require about half this time, with tungsten/halogen emitters close to full output within a few seconds.
What's the difference between ceramic trough and hollow elements?
Ceramic trough and hollow infrared elements are both manufactured using a high-temperature resistance alloy embedded within a specially formulated ceramic body. The main difference between the two designs is their heat distribution characteristics and suitability for different installation distances.
Ceramic trough elements feature a curved, solid ceramic design that produces a concentrated infrared output. The radiant energy spreads over a greater distance, making trough-style elements well suited for applications where the emitter is positioned further away from the target material.
Hollow elements are lightweight with a hollow-cast ceramic body – filled with high-density insulating material. This gives a significant reduction in rear heat loss and increased radiant output from the front of the element, which is better suited to emitters positioned closer to the target material.
