Fast response infrared drying
November 1st 2004

A fast response, medium wave infrared drying system from Heraeus Noblelight is helping MFI improve quality control in the manufacture of laminated chipboard at its Howden factory.

Sheets of chipboard are fed under a glue application roller and water flashed off to leave a base catalyst that allows printed paper to be stuck to the chipboard.

To improve the heating system to effect flash-off and eliminate a hot spot problem, three stainless steel cassettes were installed, each containing six 8.5kW pre-wired emitters, with mechanical protection given by a stainless steel mesh. The emitters provide a complete span of the drying area, without overlap, so that hot spots have been eliminated.

There has been a reduction in power demand as the medium wavelength of the emitter is suited to the removal of water, allowing an efficient flash-off operation.

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