Better Strip

Better Strip

  • Better Strips were developed to provide longer life at higher watt densities and operating temperatures than the standard Mica Strip heater. Its ceramic insulation provides for minimal air gaps and superior heat transfer efficiency.
  • Better Strips can withstand sheath temperatures of up to 1400° F (760° C) while providing high heat transfer rates and fast heat-up.

 

Product Details

Better Strip - Features & Benefits

  • Withstands sheath temperatures of up to 1400° F (760° C)
  • High heat transfer rates and fast heat up
  • Maximum watt densities
  • Long Life
  • Large selection of lengths, sizes and terminations

Better Strip - Industries & Applications

The Better Strip's ability to withstand extremely high temperatures makes it the best choice for many applications including:

  • Compression Molding
  • Heating of Extrusion Dies
  • Sealing Bars
  • Food Processing

In addition, Better Strips can be modified to meet the demands of virtually any special application. Our engineers can utilize a variety of alternative features and options to customize the heater to your specific needs.

Better Strip - Lead Options

Leads Exiting From the End

Same End

Same End

Opposite Ends

Opposite Ends


Simple lead arrangements designed for applications where lead access is possible either from only one side or from either side. Leads are available in widths 3/4" (19.0 mm) and wider. 10" (25.4 cm) leads are standard; other lengths are available. Better Strip comes standard with mica tape leads and clip support.

Leads Exiting From the Width

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Simple straight leads designed for applications where lead access is only possible from one side on top. Lead width and length options are the same as above.

Engineering Note

Improperly chosen lead arrangements are a major cause of application problems. Use special care in selection of leads where physical abuse and high temperatures are likely.

Better Strip - Screw Terminal Options

Either End

Either End

Same Side, Along Length

Same Side, Along Length

Same Side, Along Width

Same Side, Along Width


Stainless steel screw terminals available on each end, on one side along the length or on one side along the width. The terminals on either end are arranged to accommodate applications where large multiple heater systems wiring is very heavy and requires extra space. Same side terminals are designed to accommodate applications where lead access is only possible from one side .

Better Strip - Lead Protection

Plain Leads

Jacketed for continuous service up to 482°F (250°C) with nickel standard conductors. It is recommended to use Monel® lugs.

High temperature mica tape lead wire is suitable up to 842° F (450° C) max. with nickel stranded conductors. Outer jacket is glass Teflon® finish. The use of Monel® lugs is recommended. Better Band comes standard with mica tape.


Sleeving

Fiberglass silicone rubber coated sleeving class c -1, 392° F (200° C ) service. Provides extra insulation where wire is exposed to heat, molten plastics or abrasion. Rated 1500 volts at 428° F (220° C), except 5/16" (7.9 mm) size which has no voltage rating. This size used primarily to enclose multiple insulation wires in heat and abrasion resistant covering.


Stainless Steel Braid

Stainless steel over braid is most commonly specified in applications where leads may be subjected to abrasion due to movement of the application. Lead wires may be rubbing together or passing over sharp objects.


Stainless Steel Armor

Used over leads in areas where more protection is necessary. Selected for similar applications as the stainless steel braid, in addition to applications where non-fluid contamination may come in contact with the leads. This lead protection is not as flexible as the braid.

Stainless steel square lock construction.


Convoluded Armor

This is a seamless product and can be attached to the heater so that fluids do not contaminate the leads. This system of lead protection is generally associated with the “Sealed Band” construction. Not recommended where leads are flexed in the application.


>> Additional Options

Better Strip - Additional Lead Protection

Relief Spring

This optional relief spring is welded to the band sheath. It adds protection from abrasion while keeping the leads very flexible.

Specify length, maximum length: 12" (30 cm)


Copper Elbow

Simple straight abrasion-resistant stainless steel armor or moisture-resistant armor is attached to a 90° copper elbow to accommodate applications where lead access is only possible from one side and armor exit direction is a concern.

When ordering without a swivel option, specify direction of 90° copper elbow.


Pipe Coupling/Extension Tube

These pipe couplings, welded to the heater sheath, provide a method of fastening conduit or armor to the heater which can be disconnected from the heater as required.

Standard stainless steel.


Standard Terminal Box

Designed for protection safety, snap-off cover leaves terminals easily accessible.

For heaters 1 1/2" (38.1 mm) or wider with screw terminals at one end along length on top. Also with screw terminals at one end across width, on top 2 5/8" (67.0 mm) or wider.

Terminal cover protects terminals against accidental grounding or short circuit due to spillage.


>> Standard Options

Better Strip - Plugs

European Plug Options

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European Plug

European Plug with Bracket

European Plug with Bracket

European Plug with Box

European Plug with Box


Plug is illustrated in the most common position. There are occasions for special boxes where the plug may be positioned on the top surface of the box.

Other Plug Options

Quick Disconnect Socket

2 pole-25 amp-250V 600° F (315.5° C) service. Ideal for power connection to heaters. Durable cast aluminum body on female side. Both sides have ceramic insert insulators. Ground connection via contact fingers.


Hubbell® Plug (or equivalent)

Customer to specify type, part number and amperage required. There is a wide variety of Hubbell® plugs that can be fitted to our heaters. Please specify Hubbell's part number or call us for suggestions.

Better Strip - Shapes & Construction

Special with Hole

Special with Hole

Special with Cut-Out

Special with Cut-Out

Strip Heaters Special Configuration

Special units manufactured to meet your unusual requirements are available. Typical examples of special variations would include shapes, sizes, lengths, holes, cutouts, wattage, voltage, terminations and mounting systems.

Consult Tutco for alternate sheath material [stainless steel for 1200° F (649° C) maximum sheath operating temperature], cutouts, unusual holes, special curvatures to fit on pipes or cylinders.