Turbines in cold climates face blade icing and occasional shutdowns from it. Restarts with cold, viscous oil in the gearbox can strain the entire drivetrain. Warming the oil beforehand is now possible with several heater designs. Here’s one from Watlow along with sizing guides.
Named for its 0.375 in. (9.5 mm) thickness, the rugged Watlow 375 strip heater is capable of both high temperatures and high watt densities. Watlow begins construction by accurately placing a coiled, nickel-chromium element wire in the center of the heater. The element wire is then embedded in magnesium oxide (MgO)-based insulation compacted into a solid mass creating excellent heat conductivity and high dielectric strength. The heater is then enclosed in aluminized steel or 430 stainless steel sheathing.
Performance capabilities
• Aluminized steel sheath temperatures up to 1,100°F (595°C)
• 430 stainless steel sheath temperatures up to 1,200°F (650°C)
• Watt densities up to 100 W/in2 (15.5 W/cm2)
• UL approved up to 240 Vac (File No. E52951)
• CSA approved up to 600 Vac (File No. LR7392)
Features and benefits
Nickel-chromium element wire is centered in the heater to:
• Assure uniform heat from its aluminized steel sheath
• Operates at higher temperatures and resists corrosion better than iron-sheathed heaters
• Minimizes heat-up time
Optional 430 stainless steel sheath
• Meets temperature requirements that reach up to 1,200°F (650°C)
Post terminals are welded to the element wire for strong, trouble-free connections. These include a rigid 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) thick design which:
- Lets the heater fit into many existing applications. Over 100 in-stock models in widely used sizes and ratings. This allows for next day shipment.
- Available dimensions are 1½ in. (38 mm) wide and 5½ to 48 in. (140 to 1219 mm) long to fit a variety of applications that include:
A few applications include:
• Freeze and moisture protection
• Tank and platen heating
• Packaging
• Dies and mold heating
• Autoclaves
• Ovens
Watlow
www.watlow.com
inquiry@watlow.com
Filed Under: Gearboxes, News, O&M
