T-Series Quartz Tubes

Clear Tubing

For most applications, clear tubing is the preferred choice. Because clear quartz has a much higher transmission rate of infrared energy than translucent quartz, it also has a higher radiant efficiency.

In addition, clear quartz provides for a faster response time and generates a shorter wavelength than translucent quartz. It is available in a larger number of diameter options and can operate at higher temperatures — namely up to 1800°F (982°C).

Translucent Tubing

The main advantages of translucent tubing are low pricing, longer wavelength, and a non-exposed heating element. Some customers prefer a translucent tube for their applications for the aesthetic reason that the heating element is concealed within the tube.

Tubing Diameter

Clear- 3/8″, 1/2″, 5/8″, 7/8″ and 1″ | Translucent- 3/8″, 1/2″ and 5/8″.
The tubing diameter is commonly determined by matching the existing tube diameter or by basing it on the specifics of the tube’s design using aspects such as wattage, voltage and heated tube length. The goal is to maintain a low coil watt density for a long tube life. Coil watt density should not be confused with watts per lineal inch, which is the total wattage divided by the heated length. Coil watt density is the watt density on the coil itself. A good design for long element life is attained by having a low coil watt density. Sometimes this is accomplished by changing the tube voltage, while other times the tube’s diameter is increased.

In addition, clear quartz provides for a faster response time and generates a shorter wavelength than translucent quartz. It is available in a larger number of diameter options and can operate at higher temperatures — namely up to 1800°F (982°C).

Standard

This heating element is a single precision-wound resistance wire made of an iron-chromium-aluminum alloy. The heating element typically gets up to temperature in 10 – 20 seconds depending on tube design. This coil has a typical life expectancy of 10,000 hours and a maximum watt density of 60 watts per lineal inch.

Multiwound

This patented heating element has two intertwined precision-wound resistance wires made of iron-chromium-aluminum alloy wire. By reducing the wire’s mass, the time required for the element to get up to temperature is greatly reduced. The multiwound element is up to operating temperature in five seconds. The actual time will depend, however, on the overall design of the tube. This coil has a typical life expectancy of 5,000 hours and a maximum watt density of 60 watts per lineal inch.

Internal Ceramic Reflector

This patented reflector is a made of a ceramic fiber refractory material that is machined into half of the tube’s inside diameter. The quartz tube’s design enables a high radiant efficiency that does not change over time. Conventional tubes require external reflectors that become dirty and inefficient over time, whereas an internal reflector minimizes the time and expense of replacing external reflectors over time. This design is only available in 5/8″ tubing.

Gold Reflector

This reflector is a made by a patented process that applies gold to one side of the tube. Gold is a highly reflective material that directs the infrared energy at the process, eliminating the need for an external reflector. The process does add considerable cost, however, to the price of the tube.

No Reflector

For new installations, a reflector makes sense. If you are replacing tubes without reflectors however, it is best to replace these elements with a similar design. Tubes with reflectors should not be mixed with those not having reflectors.