What are PTC Heaters?

Traditional resistive element heating

Resistance in a circuit produces thermal energy, which equates to heat.  Nichrome, a non-magnetic alloy of nickel and chromium, is one of the most common resistance wires.  The material has a high resistance to current and oxidation at high temperatures. Other materials and alloys are used for specific applications to create heat with some coated with heat-conducting materials that protect the elements from oxidation at high temperatures. Typical lengths of each type of wire produce the desired heating.  

Forced air or natural convection heat exchangers are utilized to transfer heat to the atmosphere, solids, and liquids.  This heating device has long been used for electrical heating in homes, transportation, and industrial applications.  The resistance is chosen concerning temperature requirements, voltage, and current.  In most applications, temperature sensors and current-limiting components are required to maintain the proper temperature.The current through such wire resistors is nearly constant and does not change with temperature, nor does the wire's resistance.

New PTC ceramic heating elements improve the efficiency of typical resistive heating elements used in immersible applications where optimal heat transfer is required.

The PTC, Positive Temperature Coefficient, the heating element is built into exceptionally corrosive resistant stainless steel casing.  Unlike the picture of a resistive element without protective casing.

The compact & robust circular provides 360° heat transfer.  The PTC functionality is self-regulating and will not overheat.  

Cartridge heaters are often confused with tubular heaters.  A cartridge heater is designed to be inserted into a die or vessel wall by screw mount.    

Tubular heaters can have more complex geometries and may be welded or permanently attached or clamped to a vessel requiring heating.  

Both types of heaters usually contain electrical resistance heating elements insulated from the surface of the heater.  PTC ceramic heating elements are self-limiting and voltage self-insulating, providing more efficient heat transfer.

PTC ceramic heating elements improve the efficiency of typical resistive heating elements used in applications where electrical forced-air heating is required. The PTC, Positive Temperature Coefficient, the heating element is built into extruded aluminum profiles combined with a fan to effectively transfer heat quickly to an adjoining space.  Aluminum profiles are designed for optimal heat transfer with the forced air across the fins.

Efficient Transfer of Energy

In any heating application, some form of energy, electrical, gas, oil, or even hydropower is being converted into heat.  The energy of one is converted to heat energy which in turn raises the temperature of the adjoining air or physical object to bring both into equilibrium.

A PTC fan heating system converts electrical energy through the resistive element to heat which transfers very effectively to the aluminum housing.  The aluminum housing is designed to radiate the heat to the air moving across its surfaces.