Although a band heater is a helpful tool for many various industrial uses, its primary function is to heat pipes and barrels externally and indirectly. This article will go over the many varieties, how they work, and how do band heater manufacturer tests them. To begin with, let me define a band heater.
What Do Band Heaters Mean?
Ring-shaped devices known as band heaters are useful to heat cylindrical surfaces from the outside. All of these heaters operate via electrical conduction, while certain kinds could also operate via radiation. Metals are the most common material in heaters because they are excellent conductors. In the next part, we will discuss the three main types of band heaters in greater detail: mica, mineral-insulated, and ceramic.
Band Heater Types
There are three main kinds of band heaters: mica, mineral-insulated, and ceramic. Using variables like installation, mounting, parameters, termination type, sheath material or sleeve, and function parameters, you may further categorize them.
Mica Band Heaters
A class of minerals known as mica is used in mica band heater. Wires are wrapped around the mica core. The wires and core are twisted together to form a band. Because mica heaters are resistant to chemicals and water, although having a maximum temperature of just around 900 degrees Fahrenheit, they are a popular choice for harsher work environments.
Band Heaters Insulated by Minerals
As the name suggests, this type of band heater is made of mineral insulation, which has a better thermal conductivity than mica and ceramic. They are the ideal choice if you want the greatest temperature conceivable because they can reach as high as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, they offer more effective heat transfers.
Heaters with Ceramic Bands
Internal resistance coils in ceramic heaters are spirally coiled and inserted through insulated ceramic tiles. This kind of heater heats cylindrical components from the outside using radiation and conduction. A ceramic band heater primary benefit is its ability to reduce energy usage and total operating expenses. Their highest temperature is usually around 1,400 degrees Fahrenheit.
How Do Bands That Heat Up?
As we previously discussed, the primary method of heating components in band heaters is electrical conduction. Heating bands are metal filaments covered in a protective coating that transfers electrical energy into heat. The heating band will then use a regulated process to transmit the heat energy to another item. The heating band will use either conduction to do this.
How Should a Band Heater Be Tested?
Before installation, you should always test your band heater to guarantee optimum function. If your heater is already installed but you’re not sure if it’s operating at its best, a test will provide you with further insight into the matter.
We suggest taking the following actions to ensure safe testing and minimize downtime:
- Subsequently, you need to find the number etched on your heater; this number indicates the wattage and voltage.
- Cut off the heater’s electricity supply.
- Cut the lead wires on the heater.