If you have just been assigned to the task of ordering cartridge heaters for your factory, there are a few things you should know about these heating elements first. Not all cartridge heaters are the same, and to the untrained eye, they look like they are. Knowing how to tell one type of heating cartridge apart from another may mean the difference between igniting the furnace and causing a minor explosion. Here are more things you should know about cartridge heaters and why it is important to know them.  

Cartridge Heaters Are Sold in Different Volts and Wattages

Does the furnace or machine in your factory require a cartridge that has twelve volts or one-hundred-twenty volts? The bigger and more powerful the machine, the more likely it will need more voltage to operate. If you purchase a gross of cartridge heaters that are the wrong voltage, not only will you not get the heat or the power that your company's machinery needs, but you will also have to wait several days more to get the correct cartridges. That may cause multiple production delays or require that you shut down part of the factory because it is not adequately heated for employee comfort and well-being. Likewise, check the wattages on the cartridges that you are currently using and need to replace. Volts and wattages on cartridge heaters vary wildly and are combined to meet all kinds of power requirements.

Cartridge Tubes Are Made of All Kinds of Heat-Conducting Materials

Furnaces and machines that utilize cartridge heaters all need different types because the cartridge tubes are made of different heat-conducting materials. Some are porcelain, which can withstand much hotter temperature requirements because they are forged in kilns at thousand-plus degree temperatures. Others are made from an aluminum alloy that heats up quickly but should only be used in heaters and machines that do not get hotter than the melting point of aluminum. You want the correct cartridge heaters for the job so that the right amount of heat is created but continued heating does not melt, bend or fracture the cartridge tubes.

Most Catridge Heaters Will Need an Electrician for Installation

While you could buy quick-connect cartridge heaters that just snap in and out of their appointed positions, the fact remains that these quick-connect heaters do not come in all of the sizes, voltages, wattages and tube types you may need to order. The ones you do need will more than likely require the skills of an electrician or HVAC contractor to install since they are sold with open-ended wires that need to be cut, stripped, crimped and inserted into their corresponding electrical ports. Even though you have been assigned to purchase the cartridge heaters, it does not mean you need to know how to install them--leave that to the pros.