IQS Newsroom Articles on Strip Heaters
Strip Heaters
Used in applications similar to those of coil heaters, strip heaters are small electric heaters which may be clamped or bolted on to a surface for direct transfer or convectional air heating. Typically flat, straight and similar in shape to a ruler, strip heaters may be finned for fuller heat radiation, or they may be circular bands made to clamp around tubes, pipes or nozzles. Since strip heaters must be bolted or clamped on, they are often equipped with holes, notches, clamps or bolts, and many strip heater manufacturers offer custom-shaped strip heaters to fit unique applications.
Electric strip heaters may be used to heat larger surface areas, as opposed to the precise heat distribution for which coil heaters are used. Unlike coil heaters, strip heaters may be used for either direct surface heating or for air/gas heating applications such as ovens. A few of strip heaters' more common applications include providing heat for cylinders, kettles, platens, process machines, moisture protection, thawing, baking, drying ovens, food processing, control cabinets, acrylic extrusions and space heaters. Strip heaters may be used individually or in groups to provide melting, drying or air heating.
Mica, mineral and ceramic materials are used to insulate strip heaters, and the main outer construction is typically steel, stainless steel or nickel alloy. Mineral insulated strip heaters can reach the highest temperatures when constructed with stainless steel, reaching up to 1400ºF; mica and ceramic heaters reach temperatures between 700º-1200ºF. Strip heaters are characterized by their rugged construction, easy installation and relatively low cost.