Chromalox finned tubular heaters are designed for efficient air and gas heating in industrial equipment. Their increased surface area transfers heat more effectively than standard tubular heaters, making them ideal for forced-air and natural convection applications.
Industrial Ovens
Finned tubular heaters are commonly installed in industrial batch and continuous ovens where circulating air provides uniform heating. Typical applications include:
The increased fin surface transfers heat efficiently into moving air produced by circulation fans.
- Powder coating
- Paint curing
- Heat treating
- Drying operations
- Preheating components
The increased fin surface transfers heat efficiently into moving air produced by circulation fans.
Duct Heating Systems
Chromalox finned tubular heaters are widely used in industrial duct heaters and make-up air units. They provide controlled heating for:
Multiple heater elements are often grouped into heater banks to achieve the required heating capacity.
- Supply air
- Fresh air systems
- Ventilation equipment
- Air handling units
- HVAC process systems
Multiple heater elements are often grouped into heater banks to achieve the required heating capacity.
Process Air Heating
Many manufacturing processes require heated air rather than direct product heating. Common industries include:
Finned tubular heaters deliver consistent temperatures while responding well to PID temperature control systems.
- Plastics processing
- Packaging
- Food processing
- Chemical manufacturing
- Textile production
Finned tubular heaters deliver consistent temperatures while responding well to PID temperature control systems.
Drying Equipment
Drying systems rely on heated airflow to remove moisture from products and materials. Typical equipment includes:
The added fin surface improves heat transfer without requiring excessive sheath temperatures.
- Conveyor dryers
- Cabinet dryers
- Hopper dryers
- Parts drying stations
- Packaging lines
The added fin surface improves heat transfer without requiring excessive sheath temperatures.
Freeze Protection
Finned tubular heaters are frequently installed in equipment exposed to cold environments. Applications include:
Maintaining above-freezing temperatures helps protect sensitive equipment and reduce downtime.
- Instrument cabinets
- Mechanical rooms
- Outdoor electrical enclosures
- Air handling equipment
- Process equipment
Maintaining above-freezing temperatures helps protect sensitive equipment and reduce downtime.
Electrical & Control Enclosures
Control panels often require supplemental heating to prevent condensation and maintain stable operating temperatures. Compact finned tubular heaters are commonly installed inside:
These heaters are frequently paired with thermostats or electronic temperature controllers.
- Electrical cabinets
- PLC enclosures
- Control panels
- Analyzer shelters
- Instrument enclosures
These heaters are frequently paired with thermostats or electronic temperature controllers.
Choosing the Right Finned Tubular Heater
Selecting the correct heater depends on the application. Important considerations include:
Proper sizing helps maximize heater life and maintain consistent process temperatures.
- Airflow velocity
- Operating temperature
- Voltage
- Wattage
- Heater length
- Sheath material
- Fin material
- Mounting style
- Hazardous-area requirements
Proper sizing helps maximize heater life and maintain consistent process temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are finned tubular heaters used for?
They are designed primarily for heating moving air and gases.
Why are fins added to tubular heaters?
The fins increase heat-transfer surface area, allowing more heat to move into the air while reducing sheath temperature.
Can finned tubular heaters heat liquids?
No. Immersion heaters or standard tubular heaters should be used for liquid heating applications.
Can Chromalox finned heaters be custom built?
Yes. Chromalox manufactures finned tubular heaters in a wide variety of lengths, wattages, voltages, materials, and configurations.
They are designed primarily for heating moving air and gases.
Why are fins added to tubular heaters?
The fins increase heat-transfer surface area, allowing more heat to move into the air while reducing sheath temperature.
Can finned tubular heaters heat liquids?
No. Immersion heaters or standard tubular heaters should be used for liquid heating applications.
Can Chromalox finned heaters be custom built?
Yes. Chromalox manufactures finned tubular heaters in a wide variety of lengths, wattages, voltages, materials, and configurations.
Replacement Chromalox Finned Tubular Heaters
Big Chief supplies genuine Chromalox finned tubular heaters for OEM equipment, replacement applications, and new industrial heating systems. Our team can help identify the proper heater based on airflow, operating temperature, electrical requirements, and mounting configuration.
