QUARTZ HEATERS

Cause

Heater was energized while out of solution. A titanium heater will exhibit a rainbow discoloration to the hot zone sheath. A stainless steel heater will turn its hot zone to a dark brown color. Certain design heaters will distort their shape.

Solution

Ensure that the thermal protectors are properly wired to disable the heater when a high surface temperature is detected (when applicable). In addition, we recommend the use of a liquid level control is used to disable the heater when the liquid level drops to within 1-inch of the hot zone

Cause

Heaters should be handled carefully and must be fully supported during installation. Using the power supply wires, flexible riser or metal riser as a handle during installation will cause damage to the wiring and internal components.

Solution

Consult factory for possible repair. Do not operate damaged heater. Replace or discard as required.

Cause

Usually caused by pressurized discharge of heater contents due to a corrosion of the sheath and vaporization of fluid that entered the element.

Solution

Turn off power and remove the heater from service immediately as dangerous operating conditions may occur. Check application for compatibility before replacing heater.

Cause

Heaters should be inspected for any physical damage prior to installation and during routine cleaning and maintenance. Shipping damages must be reported to both the factory as well as the carrier. Damage caused by improper cleaning can result in dangerous operation conditions.

Solution

Do not operate damaged heaters. Heaters should either be returned to factory for repair or be discarded.

Cause

Incompatible solution.

Solution

Check solution for temperature and chemical compatibility with polypropylene. Switch to fluoropolymer or CPVC guards as required.

Cause

Usually caused by operation with low liquid level.

Solution

Test thermal protectors and verify wiring, operation and positioning. Remove any moisture from the thermal well that could cause corrosion or delay the protector response.

Cause

Usually caused by operation in a viscous solution at high temperature or with tube surfaces covered with some type of buildup.

Solution

Check application, replace with de-rated heaters and clean as required.

Cause

Usually caused by a bad pin weld termination.

Solution

Replace element.

Cause

Usually caused by a loose connection or bad element.

Solution

Check wiring connections and retest element. If resistance remains open, replace element.

Cause

Usually the result of overheating caused by low liquid level, solution viscosity or buildup on either the inside or outside of the tube. Element will exhibit darkening over the entire hot-zone with a bluish hue near the cold/hot transition area.

Solution

Check thermal protectors to verify operation and wiring, correct as required. Verify solution concentration and operating temperature. Replace elements as required. Clean deposits off of both inside and outside surfaces of quartz tube.