In many heating systems and electrical appliances, a special metal element performs the function of a source of direct heating. Most often it is a tubular electric heater (TEH), which can be presented in different versions. The most popular are liquid or water models of such devices, although there are also air modifications. But in both segments you can find a flexible heating element, which compares favorably with the ability to take different positions during installation, maintenance and operation.
Features of flexible heating elements
The main difference between these models lies in the flexible structure of the design, which allows you to literally lay the heater circuit in any technological niche. Initially, the problem of integrating tubular elements for heating was solved by making models with different shapes. They are still on the market in the form of intricate winding pipes for heating. And often such modifications pay off, as a rigid structure is maintained, and due to the standardized approach to the design of circuits, the problem of integrating traditional heaters into complex areas of operation is eliminated. Nevertheless, experts point to the universality,which differs elastic heating element. The flexible water heater can be freely installed in movable circuits where rigid pipes cannot be used.
Varieties of devices
Usually, the characteristics of the section are taken as the main feature of the classification. In particular, square and rounded models are common. The choice for this parameter is determined by the operating conditions. Different types of heating elements are guided by a certain range of applications. For example, if we are talking about integration into a square-shaped groove, then it is appropriate to use a heater with an appropriate cross section. The contour will be tightly fixed in the opening, but will also require additional fixation with mechanical fasteners.
Models with a round section can be integrated without additional clamps. If the groove material itself is easily deformable, mounting with a holding force on a rounded plane is acceptable. Also, a flexible heating element may differ in the materials used to manufacture the body. According to experts, the most technologically advanced and cost-effective products are produced on the basis of heat-resistant combinations of stainless steel and composites.
Installation of flexible tubular electric heaters
Before installation work, you should carefully calculate the length of the contour and determine the pipe size in terms of thickness - this will allow you to optimally integrate the element into the prepared groove. It is recommended thatthe flexible heating element initially had the necessary insulating shells that would protect the working surface from thermal influences and unwanted contacts with moisture. Otherwise, you will first have to provide the heater with a special braid, which will have to be emphasized when calculating the dimensions.
Further, the pipe is placed in a spatial technological form. As a rule, heater bends can be made by hand without special tools. The metal shell allows you to gently lay the contour in the ditch with subsequent fastening. It should also be borne in mind that when connected, some heating elements for heating require additional technical processing. This usually applies to contact points that are treated with thermal protective pastes.
Advantages of flexible heating elements
The main advantage, which led to the spread of such models of heating elements, is the ability to take different forms. However, the list of advantages of a flexible element does not end there. Experts also note the fact that during operation, heating elements of this type provide uniform heating, regardless of the complexity of the form taken. Moreover, low power consumption, high heat dissipation and low cost are emphasized. In terms of connection, a flexible heating element also demonstrates certain advantages. It is enough to note the variety of standards of connected fittings. Among them are classic threaded clamps, optional flatcontact, ceramic terminals, as well as heat-resistant wires with different crimping characteristics.
Where is flexible heating element used?
These trace heaters are used in equipment that does not provide sufficient vibration protection or requires reconfiguration of the heating circuit. For example, these can be hot runners, installations for the production of various containers and plastic products, industrial equipment, technological components of utility systems, etc. In addition, heating elements with a flexible structure are used in pipeline maintenance. Fully equipping long lines with a circuit does not justify itself for financial reasons, but certain critical areas may well be provided with such heaters in order to protect against freezing.
Conclusion
The flexible heating circuit is an effective yet practical solution to the problems of spot heating. The use of traditional rigid elements also gives its advantages, but only in specialized industries. A universal flexible heating element is more functional, although not as protected from physical damage. Actually, its mobility and flexibility in installation opens up wide possibilities for use in domestic needs. So, to temporarily provide warm flows, such devices can be used in repair and construction work - for example, to maintain the optimum temperature of somebuilding materials.
