TRACEMAN – PANEL HEATERS

INTRODUCTION

TRACEMAN surface heaters have been developed using a new approach to the production of electric resistance heating elements providing a precise heat output over areas of almost unlimited size and shape. Using the new technique; thin, lightweight, flexible and LOW-COST surface heaters are being produced which are finding an ever-increasing variety of applications.

CONSTRUCTION

TRACEMAN surface heaters consist of an accurately formed and positioned resistance wire element of proven reliability, laminated between sheets of heat resisting electrical insulation. The absence of any conventional support or former, and the precisely-formed semi-circular turns, eliminates any small radius bends which are often the cause of failure in the more traditional elements wound on thin mica strips. Furthermore, the winding, being in the center of the laminate, is not stressed when the heater is curved or flexed.

SIZE AND SHAPE

TRACEMAN surface heaters can be produced in an almost unlimited range of shapes and sizes, from the simple rectangle to complex shapes having cut-outs and holes to accommodate existing components or obstructions.

ADVANTAGE

TRACEMAN surface heaters are designed for applications where precise and intimate heating is required and where the use of a more compact high-power density heater, such as a rod or cartridge type, would be unacceptable due to local overtemperature and the difficulty in dispersing the heat over the desired area. Being thin and lightweight, TRACEMAN surface heaters have low thermal mass and thus rapid heat-up and response to temperature control.

FURTHER ADVANTAGE

Whilst the TRACEMAN surface heater is designed to give very precise and uniform heat output, there are some applications where a non-linear or shaded heat output is desirable. Using the TRACEMAN system, heat shaded elements can be produced quite simply by varying the spacing between adjacent wires. Shaded elements can be used effectively in such applications as heated press platens vertical heater panels where uneven heat loss would result in uneven surface temperature if a linear heater were used.

Type H/SR heaters are custom made from flexible silicone rubber which, in addition to being a superb high temperature electrical insulator, is also resistant to moisture, ozone and chemical attack.

The flexibility of this type of heater permits fitting to curved surfaces and they can be provided with holes, cut-outs and eyelets as required.

H/SR heaters are approximately 2mm thick and can be supplied in sizes up to 90cm x 200cm.
H/SR heaters can be bonded to metal and some other substrates using suitable adhesive.
Power densities in excess of 3.75w/in sq. (0.6w/cM sq.) can be achieved depending on operating conditions.
Type H/EG heater panels are custom made from glass fabric reinforced epoxy resin which has good resistance to moisture and chemicals.
Panel sizes up to 120cm x 120cm can be supplied in thicknesses from 3mm to 7mm. Shapes, cut-outs and holes can be provided as required. In addition, these heaters can be supplied fitted to metal heat sinks or to customers components.
METHOD OF FIXING
TRACEMAN surface heaters may be fixed in position by clamping or wrapping, or by bonding with a suitable adhesive which can be supplied with the heater.

FOR EFFICIENCT OPERATION OF A SURFACE HEATER THE METHOD OF FIXING MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN CLOSE CONTACT OVER THE ENTIRE HEATED AREA.
ORDERING

When ordering TRACEMAN surface heaters please specify: –

  • Supply voltage
  • Total power or power density
  • Size and shape – provide a drawing or pattern if holes and/or cut-outs are required
  • Positions of leads or terminals
  • Length of leads
  • Operating temperature of heated surface
  • Working environment
  • For use with or without temperature control
  • Any special requirements

CUSTOMER SERVICE

TRACEMAN provides a complete design, prototype and production service, and we will give expert advice on the installation of TRACEMAN surface heaters.