Tips for buying, installing and maintaining a cartridge heater
A cartridge heater is a mechanism that is tubular in shape, so as to be conveniently fitted into holes drilled for fitting the apparatus into metal blocks, for the heating of which it is used. Quick heating through very high temperatures – applications that work on the basis of this find this heater technology very useful, since it has the resourcefulness of conveying thermocouple inside the device for controlling heater temperatures with improved precision.
Cartridge heaters come in varying diameters for the versatility of being fitted into varying cavity sizes. Normally available diameters are –
- ¼” diameter
- ½” diameter
- ¾” diameter
It must be noted in this respect that manufacturers also offer customized versions of the same, if the cavity size is different from the prevailing ones.
Tips for selecting a cartridge heater
- The heater that you choose to buy must have a watt density that is only as high as required. Remember that most applications do not need the highest watt/in².
- Insist on the tightest fit available.
- Also pay careful attention to the sensor that is integrated into the device for temperature control. The commonly available ones are RTD, Thermocouple, Thermistors, which are popular as surface mount sensors for temperatures and compatible with DC pulse output. These days, Digital Temperature Controllers are also available, with higher degrees of flexibility, having varied input/output choices.
- Ask your dealer to determine the Watt Density that would be suitable for your heating purpose, in relation to the surface area heating that you need. It must always be in the safe range. Using larger heaters can be an easy to way to maximize safety.
Installation
Installation accuracy is extremely important for your cartridge heater to work safely. The interior surface of the drilled hole for holding the cartridge must be unvarying without harsh undulations. A reamer finish is desirable, since as the heat builds up, the distribution is higher at the ends and more concentrated in the center.
It is necessary for the drill to hold an outlet too as that would make removing it easier. The connection must also preferably be protected for averting chances of spillage and contamination.
Maintenance
- It is important for the heater to fit tightly into the cavity or receptacle hole meant for accommodating it. If loose holes or worn out holes are a problem, then switching to the next available standard size and utilizing a larger diameter cartridge can help.
- If the heater has a lead wire, it must be maintained with care. Many a times, damages to the device is directly related to lead failures that happen with excessive heating/movement. The lead wire must always therefore be protected from abrasion and never exposed to temperatures exceeding 840°F.
- Stocked cartridges that have been extensively open to the elements, must be energized with a low voltage before use, so as to prevent chances of moisture contamination
Good care and appropriate usage will allow you to derive the best heater life from your cartridge heater.
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