Drum Band Heaters
Metal band heaters wrap securely around drums and pails to apply heat directly through the container wall. Available with different temperature and control options, they make it easier to match the amount of heat to your material and container.
Explore thermostat-controlled, pre-set thermostat, infinite control, and evaporation reduction heaters for a variety of industrial heating applications.
Pointers for Choosing the Right Metal Band Heater
The biggest difference between metal band heaters is how the heat is controlled. Some models maintain a selected temperature, while others provide cycling heat, or limit temperatures for specific container materials. Understanding these differences can help you narrow down the right heater for the job.
What is a metal band heater?
A metal band heater contains electrical heating elements inside a metal sheath that wraps around the outside of a drum or pail. Heat travels through the container wall to warm the material inside.
What is the difference between thermostat and infinite control?
Thermostat-controlled heaters sense temperature and cycle on and off to help maintain the selected setting. They're designed for materials with good heat receptivity that can tolerate higher surface temperatures.
Infinite control heaters cycle power on and off without sensing or maintaining a specific temperature. This provides gentler warming for materials that may burn, char, or separate, including chocolate, honey, food products, light oils, and undercoating materials.
What does a three-heat switch do?
A three-heat switch provides high, medium, and low wattage settings. This gives you more control over the amount of heat being applied and can help you warm materials faster or more gradually.
What is a pre-set thermostat band heater?
A pre-set thermostat heater has a temperature limit established by the manufacturer. These models are designed to prevent the heater from exceeding the recommended maximum temperature for the intended container material.
Are metal band heaters available for plastic drums?
Yes, but you must select a model specifically designed for plastic drums. These models limit the maximum temperature to help protect the container from excessive heat.
What is an evaporation reduction band heater?
A rugged aluminized steel housing that is equipped with a thermostat and resettable high limit cut off switch. When the water based material is reduced below the drum heater, the high limit switch will activate shutting off the heater.
Where should a metal band heater be positioned on a drum?
Placement depends on the heater and application. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific model and keep the material level above the heater while it is in use.
What should I consider when choosing a metal band heater?
Start with the size and material of your drum. Then consider the material you're heating, how sensitive it is to heat, the temperature range you need, and whether you need thermostat, pre-set, or infinite control. Always verify that the heater is compatible with both your container and its contents.