Domestic Infra-red Heating  |  Commercial Infra-red Heating  |  Industrial Infra-red Heating  |  Home Page  |  Latest News  |  About Us  |  Contact Us

 

The Infra-red Heating Specialists

Tel/Fax +44 (0)1159 37 27 27

Email  enquiries@heatinfrared.co.uk

Infra-red Explained

 

Infra-red is a very radiant form of heating.  A good infra-red heat source has the ability to heat objects and people directly, without having to heat the air in between!

Infra-red radiation occupies the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between visible light and radio waves.  It derives its name from Latin.  The prefix 'infra' means 'below' and refers to the wavelengths that are just below the red end of the visible spectrum, hence 'infra-red'.  

Infra-red heating is generally split into three categories: - Short-wave Infra-red, Medium-wave Infra-red and Long-wave Infra-red.  Short-wave infra-red is sometimes referred to as 'Near' infra-red and Long-wave infra-red is sometimes described as 'Far' infra-red. These descriptions refer to the relative distance they are away from the visible portion of the spectrum

For each of these types of infra-red there is a wide choice of types of emitter and wavelength. The selection of the correct wavelength for a particular application is critical.  If there is a mismatch between the emitted wavelength and the absorbency characteristics of the substrate, the efficient heat transfer will simply not take place.  The services offered by Heat Infra-red can be most useful in ensuring the correct form of infra-red radiation is used.


The Three Infra-red Wavelengths

Industrial Use. - Long-wave infra-red is ideal for soak-out of components after other forms of infra-red heating have been used to do the main radiant heating.  The use of long-wave elements creates a higher degree of hot-air than other wavelengths so is also used where a combination of infra-red and hot-air is required in a process.

Domestic and Commercial Use. -  Long-wave infra-red is widely used in the catering industry and, indeed, in many household appliances!  Grill elements and toaster elements are good examples of long-wave infra-red heat sources.


The Heat Infra-red Service to Industrial Customers

Infra-red radiant heating is simple, energy efficient and flexible.  The efficiency of heat transfer between source and product is much higher than for hot air systems. This brings a number of benefits.

Process times are improved.     Energy costs are reduced.   Space is saved.    Control is improved.

The basic principle is simple, but a successful installation can be achieved only by a thorough analysis of process requirements and by careful design.  Our Consultancy service and on-site trial facility is designed to prove the concept of infra-red heating for your particular application so you get the equipment that exactly matches your needs.

Information copyright East Midlands Electricity - used with permission

Infra-red technology can be applied in most industrial process heating situations:

Heat-infra-red Ltd  can provide the complete service

For all your industrial heating requirements - Heat Infra-red !

Back to Commercial and Leisure Heating Back to Industrial Heating Frequently Asked Questions

Domestic Infra-red Heating  |  Commercial Infra-red Heating  |  Industrial Infra-red Heating  |  Home Page  |  Latest News  |  About Us  |  Contact Us