Types of Strip Heaters

Heaters from leading manufacturers, such as Watlow or Tempco deliver the benefits of advanced construction techniques. They offer high-temperature, high-watt density capabilities, with sheaths made from corrosion resistant materials. Our top heaters include: channel, mineral insulated, mica insulated, ceramic insulated and finned strip heaters for efficient air or surface heating.

  • Mica: These heaters feature a high temperature oxidation metal sheath and high grade mica insulation resistant to moisture and high temperatures. Nickel/Chromium resistance wire evenly wound provides for uniform and reliable heat distribution. These heaters also are versatile because they come in many shapes, sizes and termination options which channel heaters do not. Also mica heaters can be manufactured with holes in them to fit your needs. The temp that these heaters can withstand is up to 900F.
  • Mineral Insulated: The MI heater is a thin, responsive heater that uses the most advanced heater construction techniques. A nickel-chromium element wire is embedded in it. Mineral insulated heaters are medium heat heater and are the same as mica strip heaters. These heaters can withstand temperature reaching 1400F.
  • Channel: Channel Heaters consist of a helically wound resistance coil evenly strung through specially designed ceramic insulators. These heaters can get extremely hot; however, they come in one width and one shape. The channel heater can withstand 1100F and is still extremely durable.

How to Choose a Heater

Many factors can influence the type of heater that is optimal for your application. Some of the many specifications that you will need to consider include:

  • Physical dimensions – Strip length, width or thickness
  • Power requirements and electrical outputs – Watt density, maximum operating temperature and AC voltage
  • Features – Coil patterns, enclosed sides, corrosion-resistance, open elements, instrumentation cutouts
  • Termination types
  • Opposite end posts have a post at both ends of the heater
  • Tandem posts are located in-line along the length of the heater
  • Parallel posts are positioned in-line along the width of the heater
  • Three-post terminals have a single end post on one end and two at the opposite end
  • Horizontal leads are placed along the length of the heater
  • Terminal box connections have an enclosure on the surface of the heater
  • Insulated leads
  • Metal braided leads
  • Flexible conduit leads

Depending on your particular application you may find that flexible heaters, coil heaters, stainless steel strip or ceramic heaters could be the most suitable option. For more information on how these heaters work, and what the best product is for your application feel free to reach out with one of our knowledgeable associates today.

Heater Element for Maximum Heat Transfer

Each heater model will have its own maximum sheath temperature, watt density and voltage specifications. Hi-Watt offers units with the heater elements reliably housed for maximum transmission.

Mica, mineral, ceramic and other industrial grade insulators manage heat losses. Plus, a variety of top quality sheath materials are used. Our channel heaters feature a resistance coil that’s evenly wound through ceramic insulators. Our mica heaters also have evenly wound wire for uniform heating. A mineral insulated (MI) heater is another versatile option with its thin size and advanced construction.

Strip Heaters For Sale

You can transmit heat to a flat area fast by installing industrial heaters that provide uniform heat transfer. Our finned heaters are the models you need for air transmissions. Industrial heater applications range from surface heating of molds to process air heating for ovens. We’ll deliver top technology in your heater. Choose from low-mass designs, fast heat-ups, and clamp or bolted installation. Then, rely on our Hi-Watt technical expertise.