Benefits of PTC Technologies

Benefits of PTC Technologies

Mechanical and Electrical Design Engineers have been using PTC technology solutions to solve problems in a wide range of industrial applications where improved safety, less complexity, and durability had been issues.  There are numerous other advantages that continue to make PTC heaters the number one choice for design engineers.

1. Improved Safety
2. Lower power requirements
3. Reduced Control Requirements
4. More Design Options
5. Better Durability
6. More Uniform Heating

Improved Safety

One of the most desired attributes of PTC heating is the improvement in safety over conventional heating solutions.  There is no need for additional sensors, fuses, or controls that could fail or add complexity to the safety of the design.  The PTC heaters are self-regulating, and cannot overheat.  Overheating and causing damage is often associated with fixed resistance wire, etched foil, and other carbon fiber type heaters.

 Uniform heating across the surface of the unit prevents hot spots that can damage other parts of the product and increase warranty costs.  The inherent self-regulating design also results in fewer repairs and lower costs.  Positive temperature coefficient PTC heaters provide a safe energy-efficient solution.

Lower Power Requirements

Reducing the power requirements over time can be a big advantage in design.  The initial time to temperature is shortened quickly heating but providing a constant temperature reduces power consumption. This also reduces the cost of additional power limited equipment like fuses and thermal controls required with traditional heating systems and air heaters. Lower power reduces extraneous heat in electronic cabinets and similar applications.

Reduced Control Requirements

Heaters utilize a positive temperature coefficient without the need for additional controls and safety devices.  Traditional heating elements or regulating heaters require multiple devices to ensure safety, effective heat transfer, and to sense ambient temperatures in the control loop.

A major concern in designing products is solved by not requiring these additional devices that require space and add cost to the design.  Essentially the PTC heater runs open-loop without needing a feedback control system.