HEATFLEX SILICONE RUBBER HEATERS ATTACHMENT METHODS

As with any heater, proper attachment to the part being heated is one of the most critical elements for long heater life. Except for low watt density heaters, a flexible heater must make intimate contact over the entire surface area for a successful application. The following sections explain some of the more common attachment methods.

SILICONE RTV

Silicone RTV is liquid silicone adhesive that cures at room temperature. Different formulations with varied performance specifications are available from many sources including Heatron. In general, two-part RTV’s are necessary for large heaters that are over 16" by 16. One-part RTV’s are sufficient for attaching smaller heaters. In both cases clean oil-free surfaces are critical. For more specific information contact Kelvin, and ask for instruction Sheet SR31.

PRESSURE SENSITIVE ADHESIVE

HEATFLEX silicone rubber heaters can be supplied with several varieties of pressure sensitive  adhesives. Installation is made easy by simply peeling off the protective liner and rolling the heater in place on a clean smooth surface. Kelvin’s standard adhesive is a product that is silicone based. This chemistry delivers a superior product with a continuous operating temperature range of -300° F to +500° F. This adhesive also stands up well to deep thermal cycling without becoming brittle, as is   common with other inferior pressure sensitive adhesives. This product provides a one-year shelf life.

FACTORY VULCANIZATION

The best method of attachment of HEATFLEX silicone rubber heaters is factory vulcanization of the heaters to a surface or part. With special production processes the silicone heater is bonded directly to metal and other surfaces without the use of an additional adhesive layer. The heat and pressure of this process allows the silicone rubber to fill the microstructure of the surface. This allows the heater to operate safely at higher watt densities and temperatures than would be possible with other attachment methods. To investigate the suitability of this method for your application contact Kelvin.

MECHANICAL FASTENERS

For HEATFLEX silicone heaters that need to be removable, Kelvin has available a wide assortment of mechanical fasteners. These include lacing eyelets, spring and eyelet combinations, boot type fasteners, and hook and loop type fabric straps. Kelvin can provide heaters with high strength fabric fasening straps.