Flexible heating element. Electric heater flexible for heating

In many heating systems and electrical appliances, the function of a direct heating source is performed by a special metallic element. Most often it is a tubular electric heater (TEN), which can be presented in different designs. The most popular are liquid or water models of such devices, although there are also air modifications. But in both segments it is possible to meet a flexible heater, which is advantageous for its ability to assume different positions during installation, maintenance and operation.

Features of flexible heating elements

The main difference between these models is the flexible structure structure, 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 represented in the market in the form of intricate winding tubes for heating. And often such modifications justify themselves, as the rigid structure remains, and due to a standardized approach to designing contours, the problem of integrating traditional heaters into complex areas of operation is eliminated. Nevertheless, experts point to the universality, which is characterized by an elastic heating element. A flexible water heater can be freely installed and in mobile circuits, in which the use of rigid pipes is not possible.

Types of devices

Usually the characteristics of the section are taken as the main classification criterion. In particular, the models of square and round shape are common. The choice of this parameter is determined by the operating conditions. Different kinds of heating elements are oriented to a certain range of applications. For example, if it is a question of integrating into a square groove, then it is appropriate to use a heater with a corresponding section. The contour will be tightly fixed in the opening, but also require additional fixation with the help of mechanical fasteners.

Models with a circular cross-section can be integrated without additional locks. If the material of the groove itself can be easily deformed, installation with a holding force along the rounded plane is allowed. Also, the flexible heating element may differ in the material of the housing. According to experts, the most technological and profitable in use products are produced on the basis of heat-resistant combinations of stainless steel and composites.

Installation of flexible tubular electric heaters

Before installation, carefully calculate the length of the contour and determine the size of the pipe in the thickness - this will optimally integrate the element into the prepared groove. It is recommended that the flexible TEN initially has the necessary insulating shells that will protect the work surface from thermal effects and unwanted contacts with moisture. Otherwise, it will be necessary first to provide the heater with a special braiding, which will have to be accentuated in the calculation of dimensions.

Further, the pipe is laid in a spatial technological form. As a rule, the bends of the heater can be realized with their own hands without special devices. The metal shell allows you to gently lay the contour in a ditch with subsequent fastening. Also it should be taken into account that when connecting some heaters for heating require additional technical processing. This usually refers to the contact points that are treated with heat-resistant pastes.

Advantages of flexible heating elements

The main advantage, which caused 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. Specialists point out the fact that in the process of exploitation of this type of heating elements ensure the uniformity of warming up, regardless of the complexity of the adopted form. Moreover, it emphasizes low energy consumption, high heat output and low cost. In terms of connection, a flexible heating element also demonstrates certain advantages. It is enough to note the variety of standards of connecting reinforcement. Among them, we can distinguish classic threaded clamps, optional flat contact, ceramic terminals, as well as heat-resistant wires with different crimp characteristics.

Where is the flexible heating element used?

Use such electric heaters in equipment that does not provide sufficient protection from vibrations or involves changing the configuration of the location of the heating circuit. For example, it can be hot runners, plants for the production of various containers and plastic products, industrial equipment, technological components of public service systems, etc. In addition, heaters for heating with a flexible structure are used in the maintenance of pipelines. Complete equipping with long lines does not justify itself for financial reasons, but some responsible areas can be provided with such heaters to protect them from freezing.

Conclusion

A flexible heating circuit is an effective and at the same time practical solution to the problems of point heat supply. The use of traditional hard elements also gives its advantages, but only in the use in specialized industries. Universal flexible TEN is more functional, although not so protected from physical damage. Actually, its mobility and flexibility in installation opens wide possibilities of application and in domestic needs. So, for temporary provision with warm streams, such devices can be used in repair and construction work - for example, to maintain the optimum temperature of some building materials.