Heating coils (used in furnaces, appliances, and industrial heaters) are typically made from high-resistance alloys like FeCrAl (Kanthal) or NiCr (Nichrome). We manufacture high quality heating coils according to customer needs. mad Below is a detailed manufacturing process:
- FeCrAl (Ferritic Chromium-Aluminum) – For high-temp applications (up to 1500°C).
- *Grades*: Kanthal A-1, AF, D, APMT, 0Cr25Al5, 0Cr23Al5, etc.
- NiCr (Nickel-Chromium) – For lower temps (<1200°C), better ductility.
- *Grades*: Nichrome 80/20 (80% Ni, 20% Cr), Nichrome 70/30, Nichrome 60/15, Nichrome 25/20, etc
- Raw materials (Fe, Cr, Al, Ni) are melted in an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) or Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM) for high-purity alloys.
- Molten metal is cast into ingots or rods.
B. Hot Rolling
- Ingots are heated and rolled into thick wires (5–10 mm diameter).
C. Cold Drawing & Annealing
- Wire is pulled through progressively smaller dies to reach the desired diameter (e.g., 0.5–3 mm).
- Lubricants reduce friction.
- After several drawing passes, the wire becomes brittle.
- It is heated (800–1000°C) in an inert atmosphere to restore ductility.
- Precision drawing ensures uniform thickness (±0.02 mm tolerance).
3. Coil Formation:
A. Coiling Process
- The wire is wound around a mandrel (metal rod) to form a helix.
- Coiling Machines (CNC or mechanical) control:
- Coil Diameter (matches mandrel size).
- Pitch (Spacing Between Loops) – Affects heat distribution.
- Tension – Too much tension can deform the wire.
B. Stress Relief Annealing
- After coiling, the wire is heated to 600–900°C to relieve internal stresses and prevent cracking.
4. Surface Treatment
Pre-Oxidation (Stabilization)
- The coil is heated to 1000–1200°C in air to form a protective Al?O? (for FeCrAl) or Cr?O? (for NiCr) layer.
- This prevents rapid oxidation during actual use.
Optional Coatings
- Siliconizing – Improves corrosion resistance.
- Ceramic Coating – For extreme environments (e.g., semiconductor furnaces).
5. Quality Control & Testing
- Resistance Check (Ohm/meter) – Ensures uniform electrical properties.
- Visual Inspection – No cracks, deformations, or inconsistent winding.
- High-Temp Cycling Test – Verifies durability under repeated heating/cooling.
6. Final Assembly & Installation
- Coils are mounted in:
- Ceramic Insulators (for high-temp furnaces).
- Mica or Fiberglass Supports (for household appliances).
- Terminals are welded or crimped for electrical connections.
Comparison: FeCrAl vs. NiCr Coil Manufacturing:
Step | FeCrAl (Kanthal) | NiCr (Nichrome) |
Max Temp | 1400–1500°C | Up to 1200°C |
Ductility | Lower (requires careful coiling) | Higher (easier to form) |
Oxidation Layer | Al?O? (more stable) | Cr?O? (good but degrades faster) |
Cost | Cheaper (no nickel) | More expensive |
Applications of Manufactured Heating Coils:
- Industrial: Furnaces, kilns, heat treatment systems.
- Consumer: Toasters, hair dryers, electric stoves.
- Automotive/Aerospace: Glow plugs, cabin heaters.
Conclusion:
The manufacturing of heating coils involves:
FeCrAl coils are preferred for high-temperature, long-life applications, while NiCr is used where better ductility and lower temps are needed.