How does infrared heating work ?

Whether it’s for heating, drying, or transforming materials, thermal processes are central to the vast majority of industries. While forced-air heating is traditionally the preferred option, many industrial heating processes also feature infrared emitters, ovens, and drying tunnels, which allow for much more precise thermal management.

What if these infrared systems were the right solution for your needs? Discover their types, uses, and the principle behind their operation here !

Infrared heating delivers targeted, efficient thermal energy where it’s needed most, reducing energy loss, accelerating processes, and optimizing industrial performance.

How Does Infrared Heating Technology Work ?

The study Design and Analysis of Infrared Heating with Overlapping Heater Array Scheme for Industrial Application published in 2017 explains that :

An IR heater mainly consists of an IR lamp and a reflector, and various types of heating can be created according to the design of the reflector. One of the most widely used types of reflector is the elliptical-shaped reflector because it can concentrate IR energy in a very narrow area to increase the energy efficiency. 

More specifically, infrared heating technology works by transmitting electromagnetic waves.
A given surface emits electromagnetic radiation of a certain temperature. This radiation, called infrared radiation, propagates at the speed of light, and when it reaches a material, part of the infrared radiation is absorbed and becomes heat. The other part is simply reflected.
This is how infrared heating works, in the same way that the sun warms us with its rays!

Note that only the absorbed portion contributes to the heating. When this radiation hits the surface, the molecules in the material are activated, generating heat. Thus, each material has its own absorption spectrum, which corresponds to the area in which electromagnetic rays are best absorbed.
There are generally two main types:

• Short wave radiation. The heat is directed towards the objects and people in front of the unit. This process creates no airflow.
• Long wave radiation. This one heats up the atmosphere, without moving the air.

In industrial applications, infrared heating typically utilizes wavelengths ranging from approximately 0.76 to 6 microns. Wavelengths beyond 6 microns are rarely employed in industrial settings.

Most infrared heaters generate heat through either electric components (quartz tubes, carbon fiber elements) or combustion-based systems like gas-fired ceramic panels. The specific wavelength emitted depends on the temperature of the heating element and the particular requirements of the process.

Benefits Of Infrared Heating

• Contactless heat transmission.
• Short response times. Precisely matched infrared emitter systems increase process speed.
• High portability.
• Reduced energy consumption. No obstacles between the heater and the target, allowing the heat to be absorbed at nearly 100%. Moreover, heated objects can re-emit warmth, helping to reduce overall energy consumption. Studies have also shown that installations using infrared heating can save up to 20 to 50% in fuel costs.
• Reducing harmful emissions. Infrared heaters use electricity to generate power and release excess energy as heat. They therefore burn cleanly and produce virtually no emissions, as the heat is not carried by air movement.
• Durability and longevity. Infrared heaters contain fewer components and are therefore less prone to failure. Repairs are typically minimal and occur later in the device’s lifecycle.

Do infrared heaters have any limitations ?

It depends on the environment and your business needs. Infrared heaters are generally less effective in large open spaces or in areas with frequent movement of people or objects, as infrared heat is highly directional.

What Are The Different Types Of Infrared Heaters ?

In the broad family of infrared heaters, there are emitters that may use carbon filaments or single and double tubes made of high-quality quartz glass.

To suit all industrial processes with the same level of precision, there are also special models available, such as short-wave emitters, designed for small surfaces, or spiral emitters, typically used on glass or in vacuum operations. Some models, equipped with a slot, are better suited for textile applications, while Omega emitters are more commonly found in plastic assembly, welding, or riveting processes.

Beyond ready-to-install infrared ovens and tunnels, there are also modular systems designed to adapt to various surface sizes, as well as compact dryers that combine infrared heat with controlled airflow management.

Fields Of Application

Food processing

This radiant heating is highly preferred in the food industry because it has a sterilizing effect as well as a heating effect.

A New Approach to Modeling Focused Infrared Heating Based on Quantum Mechanical Formulations.

To heat, brown, sterilize molds, or process materials… Infrared emitters are particularly well-suited for food processing, as they require no direct contact and eliminate any risk of overheating. All this without the need for preheating, resulting in significant time savings in the food industry !

Paint drying and curing

Especially in automotive and manufacturing industries. Infrared heating emitters efficiently dry water-based wet coatings and can significantly accelerate the curing of powder coatings.

Forming, stamping, rolling

Infrared heaters are used where the surface (modern plastic materials mostly) needs to be heated evenly. The particular challenge here is that large-surface films or floor coverings must retain heat uniformly, without losses. Additionally, the heat is applied directly in front of the press or embossing slot, which allows for energy savings.

Assembly and welding

Suction tubes, ventilation parts, or brake fluid reservoirs, these components are typically assembled using infrared heat. The emitters adapt precisely to corners and angles, and particle formation during the process is minimized thanks to the surface-level melting of the plastic.

Healthcare

Laboratories, hospital departments, and clinics use infrared heating, particularly for applications such as blood platelet separation or the sterilization of medical equipment. When it comes to patient well-being, infrared heating is also used to reduce muscle stiffness and joint pain, or to enhance overall comfort.

Best Practices For Installing And Operating Infrared Heaters

Commercial infrared heaters can reach temperatures as high as 150°C, so be sure to keep the units at a safe distance from people and any flammable materials. When using oil-fired infrared heaters indoors, ensure proper ventilation to maintain a safe and healthy environment. As for electric heaters, always keep cables well organized and out of walkway and secure the unit on stable ground. Of course, always follow the user manuel to be well aware of all the safety precautions required.

Maximising energy efficiency

• Choose the right heater for your needs.
• Consider power source availability.
• Assess workspace requirements.

Final Thoughts On Infrared Heating

Perfectly suited to highly specialized industrial processes, infrared systems deliver high performance in seconds. Of course, each application presents specific challenges, so be sure to be properly supported by a professional who will be able to answer all your questions. Don’t hesitate to contact Ohmvo for tailor-made solutions and recommendations!