5 Process Heat Applications and the Hot Air Tools to Use for Them
Across a variety of industries and applications, process heat plays a critical role in shaping materials and preparing them for purchase. From drying and curing to welding and shrink wrapping, heat is indispensable for not only transforming materials, but keeping them safe for consumers.
Below, we detail some common process heat applications and the top hot air tools you can use to efficiently perform them.
1. Medical Device Sterilization
Hot air tools are used to sterilize medical and pharmaceutical equipment, which helps prevent the spread of harmful pathogens and infections. Hot air blower systems, which include a blower and a heater, are beneficial for this process because they can help maintain a sterile environment, provide uniform airflow, and are cost effective.
Tools to use:
- IHS Type 10000 Air Heater
- Tutco-Farnam Heat Torch Air Heaters
- Forsthoff 7500 Process Air Heater
- Atlantic Blowers ABC-100 Centrifugal Blower
- Atlantic Blowers AB-100 Regenerative Blower
>>Related read: 3 Powerful Blower-Heater Combinations for Medical Device Sterilization
2. Food and Beverage Packaging
Hot air tools are used to create airtight seals on food packaging materials such as plastic bags, pouches, or containers for products such as meats and cheeses. These tools direct hot air onto the packaging material, which melts it and creates a seal. This ensures product freshness and prevents contamination.
Tools to use:
- IHS Type 4000 Air Heater
- Forsthoff Type 3000E Process Air Heater with Electronics
- Tutco-Farnam Cool Touch Air Heaters
- Atlantic Blowers ABC-100 Centrifugal Blower
- Atlantic Blowers AB-100 Regenerative Blower
>>Related read: 6 Hot Air Tools That Save Time and Money in the Packaging Process
3. Surface Treatment for Automobiles and Aircraft
Hot air tools are used for various surface treatment applications for automobiles and aircraft, including paint stripping, paint drying and curing, vinyl wrap installation, plastic repair and welding, and rust and corrosion removal. They’re also used for bonding components, which ensures safety and optimal performance.
Tools to use:
- Tutco SureHeat Jet Air Closed-Loop Process Air Heater
- Forsthoff Vento Q Hot Air Tool
- Atlantic Blowers ABT High-Pressure Centrifugal Blower Systems
- Atlantic Blowers AB Double-Stage Regenerative Blower Systems
4. Vinyl Wrapping Automobiles and Aircraft
Hot air tools, such as hot air guns with adjustable temperature settings and nozzle attachments, are essential for installing vinyl wraps on automobiles and aircraft. The heat from the tool softens the vinyl, making it pliable and easier to stretch and conform to a vehicle’s complex curves and contours. It also helps activate the adhesive on the vinyl, ensuring secure bonding and optimized protection.
Tools to use:
- Tutco SureHeat Max High-Temperature Heater
- Forsthoff Type 3000 & 5000 Process Air Heaters
- IHS 75 x 2 mm Wide Slot Nozzle
- Atlantic Blowers ABT High-Pressure Centrifugal Blower Systems
- Atlantic Blowers AB Double-Stage Regenerative Blower Systems
5. Coating and Drying Electronics
Conformal coatings are protective layers applied to printed circuit boards to safeguard them against moisture, dust, and environmental contaminants. Hot air tools and heaters are used to cure and dry the conformal coatings, ensuring proper adhesion and long-term protection.
Prior to assembly, electronic components often require drying to remove moisture or solvents. Hot air tools or heaters are employed to accelerate the drying process, ensuring that components are moisture-free and ready for assembly.
Tools to use:
- HSK Model 300 Quick L 120V Hot Air Tool
- Steinel MH5 Rechargeable Mobile Hot Air Tool with Carrying Case
- Tutco SureHeat Max Air Heaters
Take Your Process Heating Skills to the Next Level
No matter your industry, we have the right process tool for you. Contact us today and a real person will assist you in finding a hot air tool that will boost your efficiency and revenue.
- Robert Heater
