Here are some of our most commonly asked flexible printed heater questions.
What types of printed heaters does Butler Technologies manufacture?
We manufacture four different heaters: Clear conductive, Kapton® RS, Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC), and Fixed-Resistance.
What is the hottest temperature that the printed heater can reach?
It depends on the type of heater you’re inquiring about. PTC heaters' highest operating temperature is 60-65°C. Fixed Resistance heaters can operate up to 80°C. Kapton® RS heaters operate at the most elevated temperatures reaching a peak of 240°C. Transparent clear conductive heaters can reach temperatures up to 120°C.
How long do printed heaters take to reach their highest operating temperature?
You can feel the heat within 5 seconds of turning the heater on, and it will reach operating temperatures within 45 seconds.
Can printed heaters be washed?
The printed heaters are washable and generally withstand up to 45 washes on a gentle cycle, air dry. Snaps can be added for the heater is easily removed from the garment, so the heater does not need to be washed.
How do flexible printed heaters guarantee no risk of overheating?
The PTC heater is designed to shut off at a predetermined temperature. This is considered a “self-limiting” heater and without the need for external diagnostics or controls.
Are printed heaters safe to make direct contact with skin?
Because the printed heaters operate at relatively high temperatures, they should not come into direct contact with your body's skin (This is in terms of the Fixed Resistance and PTC heaters). There should always be a layer of clothing in between you and the heater at all times. Kapton® RS heaters should never be used for clothing applications or where they may make contact with skin, as they operate at extremely high temperatures.
How are the flexible printed heaters powered?
Our heaters are battery-operated, making them portable. More industrial applications can also have a more permanent external control for the heater.
What industries are printed heaters typically used in?
Printed flexible heaters are used in any industry where there may be a need for portable heat. Our most common industries are Apparel, Automotive, Aerospace, Food Service, Healthcare and Medical Products, and Consumer Goods.
What kind of heater should I use?
It all depends on what your product’s end-use will be. Reach out to our team to help you choose which heater will work best for your intended application.
Are there any dimension requirements for designing flexible heaters?
Engineers have a wide range to make custom designs and dimensions for heaters. Typically flexible heaters can be designed between 4 inches by 4 inches and no larger than 18 inches by 18 inches. Engineers design heaters in various configurations, such as gloves, boots, discs, and more. Heaters can be as simple as a square or rectangle.
What are the power requirements needed for printed heaters?
The standard amount of power required for heaters to work correctly is a 12-24 volt battery pack. However, the voltage can be lower depending on the application. There is always a tradeoff between runtime, operating temperature, and battery size/weight.