Understanding Infrared Radiant Heating Technology
Infrared radiant heat energy can be delivered to concentrated areas at a very fast rate with individual heaters or heater arrays. Infrared energy is commonly used to heat plastics, remove moisture, cure painted finishes or heat food products. This is because plastics, organic substances and water absorb infrared energy more efficiently than other materials in industrial applications.
The efficiency of radiation heat transfer exchange between bodies depends on:
- The emissivity values of the emitter (i.e. ceramic heaters).
- The absorption, reflection and transmission properties associated with the receiving medium.
- The relative temperature differences.
- The surface characteristics.
- Relative position and physical geometry.
The Basics of Infrared Radiation
The three main modes of heat transfer are:
- Conduction – When two bodies of different temperature are brought in contact with each other, heat energy flows from the hotter to the colder body.
- Convection – Heat energy is transferred from a higher temperature region in a gas or liquid to a lower temperature region as a result of movement of masses within the fluid or gas.
- Radiation – Infrared radiant energy is transported through space by electromagnetic waves without the need for a conductive media. Consequently, heat can be delivered in concentrated areas at very fast rates. Electromagnetic radiation can be further broken down into four basic categories: ultraviolet, infrared (short/medium/long wavelength), microwave, and radio frequency/induction.
Why Can’t We See Infrared Radiation?
Electromagnetic radiation is measured in wavelength “λ” or in frequency “f”. Both quantities are related by the equation λ = c ÷ f, where "c" is the speed of light (3 x 10-8 m/s). Infrared radiation wavelengths fall outside the visible range in the electromagnetic spectrum; see adjacent figure. One micrometer, µm, is equal to 10–6 meter.
The total radiant energy “W” in watts per square centimeter emitted by an object is found with the Stefan-Boltzmann law: W = εσT4, where “ε” is the emissivity factor, “σ” is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (5.67 × 10–12 W/cm2K4), and “T” is the surface temperature of the object in °K (0°C equals 273°K).
All matter emits radiant energy as a consequence of its finite temperature. Only at absolute zero (–273°C), when all molecular activity ceases, does matter stop emitting radiant energy. In solids and liquids, emission of radiant energy is considered a surface phenomenon, while for gases and certain semi-transparent solids, such as glass and salt crystals (at elevated temperature), emission is considered a volumetric phenomenon.
Radiant heating is regarded by many as a technology that is complicated and difficult to work with. While radiation theory can be complicated, it is far easier to apply when given the appropriate heating devices and guidance on which device best suits your application. No matter what the application needs, Tempco has the right product to satisfy your requirements.
