Tubular heaters are made through a detailed process that ensures their functionality and durability. These heaters are widely used in ovens, stoves, and coffee makers due to their efficient heat transfer capabilities.
Key Points Explained:
Composition of Tubular Heaters:
- Heating Element: The main component is a fine coil of nichrome wire. Nichrome is a resistance heating alloy known for its high resistivity and resistance to oxidation at high temperatures.
- Metallic Tube: The nichrome coil is housed within a metallic tube, usually made of copper or stainless steel alloys like Incoloy. This tube protects the heating element and helps in heat transfer.
- Insulation: Magnesium oxide powder is used to insulate the nichrome coil within the metallic tube. The ends of the tube are sealed with insulating materials like ceramic or silicone rubber to prevent moisture ingress.
Manufacturing Process:
- Coil Insertion: The nichrome wire coil is inserted into the metallic tube. The coil is carefully wound to ensure even heating and efficient energy use.
- Powder Filling: Magnesium oxide powder is packed around the coil inside the tube. This powder acts as an insulator and helps in conducting heat evenly across the coil.
- Tube Compression: The filled tube is drawn through a die to compress the magnesium oxide powder. This enhances heat transmission and ensures the coil is securely held within the tube.
- End Sealing: The ends are sealed with insulating materials to prevent moisture from entering the tube and affecting the insulation. This could be ceramic, silicone rubber, or a combination of both.
Shaping and Application:
- Form Factor: The tubular heater can be manufactured in various shapes, such as straight rods or bent configurations, depending on the specific heating requirements of the appliance.
- Heat Transfer Enhancement: In some designs, like platen heaters, the contact area is increased to enhance heat transfer, thereby extending the life of the heater. This is particularly useful in applications like boiler heating.
Materials and Durability:
- Material Selection: The choice of materials is crucial for the durability and efficiency of the heater. Stainless steel and Incoloy are preferred for their corrosion resistance and ability to withstand high temperatures.
- Insulation Integrity: The integrity of the insulation is maintained by using high-quality magnesium oxide powder and effective end sealing techniques to prevent moisture and ensure long-term performance.
In summary, the manufacturing of tubular heaters involves precise engineering and material science to create a reliable and efficient heating element. The use of high-quality materials and careful assembly ensures that these heaters can withstand continuous use in various applications.
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