What Is a Band Heater?
A Band Heater is a cylindrical or belt-shaped heating device with an attached heat source.
These band-shaped heaters are primarily utilized for heating applications in industrial and manufacturing processes. They are used to heat solids or liquids to required temperatures, often installed alongside sensors and temperature controllers for regulation.
Band Heaters are relatively easy to install and operate, making them suitable for attachment to containers and pipes of different sizes and shapes. Their frequent installation with temperature control devices enables easy maintenance of a predetermined temperature.
Another characteristic is their ability to provide uniform heat to the surface of the heated object, preventing heat concentration in one area. Many band heaters are also designed to minimize overheating and fire hazards.
Applications of Band Heaters
Band Heaters find applications in various industries and scenarios as heating devices. Some applications include:
1. Plastic Molding
In plastic molding processes, Band Heaters are attached to plastic molding machines for melting and softening raw materials, crucial in manufacturing plastic products like bottles and cases.
2. Process Plants
Band Heaters are employed in chemical processes for heating reaction vessels and pipes. They help maintain reactants at desired temperatures, improving reaction rates and efficiency in processes like chemical synthesis and distillation.
Additionally, to prevent pipe freezing and potential ruptures in winter, Band Heaters are often used, reducing repair costs and factory downtime.
3. Food Industry
In the food industry, Band Heaters are used in ovens and toasters for baking, and as heating devices for melting chocolate or sugar, playing a crucial role in the confectionery industry.
Principles of Band Heaters
Band Heaters, cylindrical or belt-shaped heating elements, are easily fitted onto containers and pipes. They generate heat through electricity, with heating elements typically made of high-resistance materials like Nichrome alloy.
Wrapped around the exterior of the object to be heated, Band Heaters uniformly heat the surfaces of pipes or tanks. The heat from the heating element is conducted to the heated object, increasing its temperature.
Many Band Heaters incorporate temperature sensors and control devices to regulate and maintain specified temperatures, adjusting the power supply to stabilize temperature if it exceeds set values.
Choosing Band Heaters
When selecting Band Heaters, consider factors such as:
1. Power Supply Voltage
Choose the power supply voltage of Band Heaters to match the power source. Common voltages include single-phase 100V or 200V and three-phase 200V or 400V. Check the heater’s specification sheet for the appropriate voltage.
2. Heating Power
Select the required heating power based on the object to be heated and temperature requirements. Confirm compatibility with desired heating requirements using the specification sheet.
3. Lead Coating
Choose lead wires with appropriate heat-resistant coatings, such as silicone, glass fiber, or PTFE (Teflon), especially for high-temperature environments.
4. Length
Select the heater length to match the size of the object to be heated, ensuring secure wrapping and uniform heating. Longer products may be necessary for pipe heating applications.