What is the recommended voltage for Kapton flexible heaters wired in parallel?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the appropriate voltage for Kapton flexible heaters wired in parallel, specifically focusing on the implications of operating these heaters at or below the specified voltage of 28 volts as per the manufacturer's manual. The context includes concerns about safety, performance, and the electrical characteristics of the heaters.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the manual specifies 28 volts but does not clarify if this is the maximum or operating voltage, raising concerns about applying the correct voltage to avoid damage.
  • Another participant emphasizes that operating at voltages higher than specified could lead to overheating and potential fire hazards, suggesting that any voltage up to 28VDC should be acceptable.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that if the heaters are resistive, they can operate at lower voltages, producing less heat, while reiterating the importance of adhering to the voltage limits for safety and longevity.
  • One participant recommends using a temperature controller and sensor for optimal performance, indicating that voltage alone may not be sufficient for effective operation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of not exceeding the specified voltage of 28 volts, but there is some uncertainty regarding the implications of operating at lower voltages and the necessity of additional equipment for optimal performance.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve whether 28 volts is the maximum or operating voltage, and there are varying opinions on the effects of operating at different voltages.

mistersink
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I have a circuit that has two 10watt heaters and one 20watt heater all wired in parallel and hooked up to a dc power supply.

the heaters are kapton flexible heaters made by Omega:
KHLV-101/10-P
KHLV-0504-10-P
the manual for these can be found here: http://www.omega.com/manuals/manualpdf/M1249.pdf

these heaters are adheared to solid copper and i would like to provide the correct voltage or current. The manual specifies the voltage to be 28 volts, but it does not say that this is the maximum voltage or operating voltage, or what. Does this mean that i should apply 28 volts to the power supply? What happens if I apply more or less? I don't want to damage these heaters. Any help would be great.
 
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It does say:

"DO NOT operate heaters at a voltage higher than the specified or
rated voltage."

So I think any voltage up to 28VDC will be OK. If you apply a higher voltage they might overheat and worst case catch fire!

Be sure to follow all the points on page 3 in the manual.
 
If they are resistive (I'm too lazy to follow your link) they should work at lower voltage and just produce less heat. The previous warning about over voltage should be heeded for safety and longevity reasons.

At 28 volts a 10W heater will draw .35 amps (P = IE ... the easiest Ohms law to remember). Your combination of three in parallel dissipates 40W and uses about 1.5A.
 
You need to get a temperature controller and a sensor for best performance.
 

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