The Watlow Finbar heater combines the advanced FIREBAR flat tubular heating element with press-fitted aluminized steel fins, creating a high-performance air heating solution. The fins effectively increase surface area to approximately 16 square inches per linear inch of element length, drastically improving heat transfer to air. This design enables more heating power in confined spaces, making Finbar heaters ideal for forced air ducts, dryers, ovens, and load bank resistors.

FIREBAR Element Advantages

The FIREBAR heating element's flat surface geometry allows it to heat media from ambient temperatures faster than tubular elements while using the same wattage and maintaining lower sheath temperatures. This characteristic, combined with the enhanced surface area from the fins, provides superior heat transfer efficiency. The rugged aluminized steel fins withstand demanding operating conditions while maintaining structural integrity over extended service life.

Installation and Protection

Single-ended termination simplifies wiring and installation by consolidating all electrical connections at one end. Stainless steel mounting brackets facilitate secure attachment to ductwork or equipment frames. Lavacone seals protect the heater from moisture damage during storage and operation, ensuring reliable performance even in humid environments. Lengths from 10 to 48 inches are available as standard, with custom sizes available by special order.

Applications and Performance

Finbar heaters excel in forced air applications including dryers, ovens, and duct heating where efficient heat transfer to moving air is essential. Still air applications such as ovens, incubators, and comfort heating also benefit from the enhanced surface area design. Additional applications include ink drying systems and load bank resistors. With fin temperatures up to 1100°F and watt densities to 50W/in², these heaters provide reliable performance across demanding industrial thermal processing requirements.