As to what that number is, it very much depends on the application. Whereas aluminum processing requires preheating to around 650 degrees Celsius (1,200 degrees Fahrenheit), steel processing requires significantly higher temperatures of up to 1,400 Celsius (2,550 Fahrenheit). Bronze, zinc and copper require something between the two extremes.
While there is a common misconception that electric heaters are not equipped to deliver the higher temperatures, Kanthal’s electric heating systems can be adapted for all temperature ranges, delivering heating and preheating up to ladle temperatures of 1,500 degrees Celsius (2,730 degrees Fahrenheit).
Safer, cleaner, more sustainable and more efficient, electric ladle preheating is the future-proof solution for aluminum and steel producers everywhere.
Five reasons to electrify your ladle preheating process
Electric ladle preheating is safer, cleaner, more efficient and more sustainable. Here are the top five reasons to electrify your ladle heating process.
Zero emissions
For companies seeking to reduce their carbon footprint, converting to electric is a no-brainer. Electric ladle heating solutions produce zero carbon emissions, provided the electricity is generated from a renewable energy source. When using electricity from a fossil-based power plant, the enhanced efficiency of an electric heater can still produce fewer carbon emissions overall.
Thermal efficiency of up to 95 percent
Whereas gas heaters allow significant amounts of energy to escape into the ambient air, an electric heater focuses the power where it needs to be. The average net efficiency of an electric ladle preheating system is up to 95 percent, compared with only 20 percent for a gas heater. This can result in an energy saving of up to 70 percent when converting from gas to electric.
Enhanced working environment
An electric ladle heater contributes to a safer, cleaner working environment. Whereas gas burners are noisy and polluting, Kanthal’s electric solutions are quiet, safe and clean. In addition to eliminating the obvious safety risks posed by gas in the working environment, electric heaters produce no excess heat, harmful nitrous oxides or poisonous carbon monoxide.
Precise temperature control
A ladle that is too hot or too cold can cause all sorts of problems in the casting process. While gas heaters are not able to measure ladle temperature, electric systems are equipped with thermal controls, enabling you to get the temperature just right every time. The result is greater uniformity and reliability in the production process.
Extended product lifespan
When a ladle has not been sufficiently preheated, the extreme heat of the molten metal may damage the refractory material. By always heating the ladle to the required temperature, electric ladle heaters reduce the risk of thermal shock, thus extending the life of the ladle lining by an average of 20 percent.