This question requires knowledge of the specific objectives of each customer. In general terms, gas infrared is less expensive than electric infrared to operate. The cost of using electric infrared typically includes demand charges. But electric infrared is more efficient than gas infrared. And gas infrared does not have the forgiveness and flexibility that electric infrared can provide. But again, your specific objectives largely dictate the selection of not only the fuel of choice, but the source itself.

Combination ovens are simply the combination of both infrared and convection in a single oven. Consecutive combination ovens apply infrared then convection: Ideal for powder coating. Concurrent combination ovens apply infrared and convection together: Ideal for drying. And don't be fooled: Real combination ovens have independent temperature controls for both the infrared and convection.

High velocity convection is the intense application of air to the maximum allowed by the process. An average oven utilizes about 1,000 feet per minute: High velocity ovens range from 4,000 to 20,000 feet per minute. The advantage is simple: The rate of heat transfer is directly related to the velocity and turbulence of the air. With no change in source energy usage, high velocity convection provides dramatically improved heat transfer.

Electric infrared or convection alone may not require an exhaust. Gas infrared and convection will always require exhaust. But the process itself may require that an electric oven provide exhaust, certainly for liquid coatings and possibly even for powder coatings. NFPA standards are a great source of guidance.

Exhaust in a powder coating oven may not be necessary. But the specific powder formulation as well as attention to any vapors emitted as the powder cures in the oven will determine the need for exhaust. And certainly, the use of gas infrared or convection will require exhaust.

Yes, testing can determine the level of improvement. The time and temperature regime specified by the powder manufacturer is usually a conservative estimate based on results from testing in a lab convection oven. To assist their customers, some manufacturers are now even including an infrared specification that is closer to the actual time and temperature required in an effective oven.

SOLUTIONEERING™; is a detailed plan of attack used throughout the design and manufacturing process of every oven and machine we build. The engineering of a custom oven or machine requires more than just an application of principles. It requires creativity, innovation, and a clear focus on the needs of the customer. The result is not just equipment, but a solution.

We have put together a short list highlighting those companies we recommend for buying plastisols and coatings. We have experience with every company listed.

Dip molding is a term used to define any process where a mold or part is dipped into a polymer for molding or coating a part. This process is used to make everything from surgeons gloves to hand tool handles. Foremost, plastisol is the most common dip molding material. But latex, neoprene, urethane, and other materials are also used.

MCT is Molding & Coating Technologies, a part of the Thermovation Engineering team: MCT combines the heating, handling, and control experience of Thermovation Engineering with a deep knowledge of dip molding specifically to design and build the most advanced dip molding machines in the world.