Correct installation of Cartridge Heaters

Installation Guide

Cartridge heaters are reliable and ‘long-lasting’ heating elements – as long as they are installed and used correctly. Incorrect installation can lead to a wide range of issues, including the eventual failure of the heater itself. Which is why it’s so important to do your research first. Here, our team of experts get you started with a number of top tips for successful cartridge heater installation.

1. Choose the correct cartridge heater

The first step to successful cartridge heater installation is choosing the right heater for the job. Ideally, the heater should fit snugly inside the hole – as this minimises air gaps and allows effective heat transfer. You should carefully consider the size of your chosen cartridge heater before installing.

It’s also important to consider the voltage rating. This has a direct impact on watt density and will affect the performance of your heating element – so be sure to give it a little thought. If you need help selecting the right cartridge heater for your application, our team are always on hand and happy to offer advice.

2. Drill a suitable hole

When a hole needs to be drilled for the cartridge heater, the following factors should be noted:

– The inside of the drilled hole must be uniform, without gratings, burs or uneven diameters

– The hole should be reamed to the perfect size to ensure the best heat transfer

– The drilled hole needs to have an outlet to make removal easier

– There must be a minimum space of 3 diameters between each heater

– As the heat rises the distribution is less at the ends and the heat is concentrated in the middle. The connections must never be deeper   than the drilled hole, as there is the risk of shorting and the leads burning. The connections must be protected to prevent any possible   spilling of fluids and or gases.

3. Use heat transfer lubricants carefully

Care should be taken when using our heat transfer paste during cartridge heater installation. This is a highly conductive material and, as such, it should never be allowed to spread to the live end.

4. Protect the leads

In order to avoid the risk of short-circuiting and burning, leads should never extend into the hole containing the cartridge heater.

It’s important to protect the leads from liquids and/or gases such as oils, sprays, hot sparks and lubricants. These contaminating substances may enter into the cartridge heater and can cause premature failure of the heating element.

Failure can also be caused by accidental damage to the leads. To avoid abrasion, crushing or trapping of the leads under nearby objects, steps should be taken to protect them as much as possible.

Here at Cartridge Heaters, we offer several types of lead protection for use with cartridge heaters. If leads are subject to high temperatures (i.e. above 250°C), we recommend the use of ceramic bead leads. Heaters can also be made with un-heated zone patterns to offer the best possible protection.

5. Regulate the temperature

Cartridge heater installation isn’t complete without the addition of an appropriate temperature control device. This will help to regulate the temperature of the cartridge heater and can both improve its performance and maximise its lifespan.

Removing the Cartridge Heater

Removing the cartridge heater correctly is just as important as correct cartridge heater installation. Once it has been in operation for many hours, at a high temperature, the heater will start to oxidise. This causes it to become lodged in-situ and it will be very difficult to remove.

One way to counteract this problem is to drill the hole all the way through. This allows the cartridge heater to be easily removed using a simple hammer and rod.

Get in touch with Cartridge Heaters today

If you would like further advice regarding cartridge heaters and cartridge heater installation, more information can be found in our blog. Alternatively, you can get in touch at any time. Our team of experts, here at Cartridge Heaters, have vast experience and knowledge in this area and they’re always happy to answer your questions.

So why not call us today on 0121 439 8932? Or

Send an Email to sales@cartridgeheaters.co.uk and we will respond as soon as possible.