User Manual

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Thermal Solutions Design Guide | Specifications subject to change
Applications
Many applications can benefit from the simplicity and
reliability of SmartHeat. Some examples include:
• Keeping batteries warm and condensation-free for
maximum output
• Humidifying respiratory equipment for patient safety and
comfort
• Safe storage of reagents for accurate analysis
• Defrosting of displays for clarity and readability
• Defrosting LEDs for safe, clear lighting
• Deicing infrared lenses for reliable signaling
• Sensor anti-icing for effective function
• Valve warming to maintain liquid flow
• Low-weight deicing of aircraft wings for safe, reliable
operation
Overview
SmartHeat is the ideal solution for many of today’s most
demanding heating applications. It provides a plug-and-play
heating solution requiring only a power source. Each heater
operates to a specific temperature and power based on its
unique design. The heating power is applied and modulated
at infinite points across the entire heating surface based on
the heat load. This allows the heater to provide the required
power, up to but never exceeding the designed temperature.
SmartHeat Technology
SmartHeat™ technology consists of a thin silicone matrix
loaded with conductive carbon particles. Electrical current
moves between the carbon particles via quantum tunnelling
of electrons through the non-conductive silicone material. The
spacing of the carbon particles determines electrical resistance
of the material and the current it can carry at any point. As the
silicone warms, thermal expansion drives the carbon particles
farther apart and increases resistance point-by-point over the
surface of the heater. At the designed set-point temperature
the heater effectively becomes an electrical isolator, drawing
negligible current, and no longer producing heat. Conversely,
if the silicone cools via environmental or load variations, the
carbon particles pull closer together, reducing resistance.
This allows a localized current-flow increase and the heater
produces more heat at that location in order to maintain
thermal equilibrium.
These effects drive the self-limiting nature of this technology
without the need for external instrumentation and control
systems. By controlling the composition of the carbon-silicone
matrix in production, the the heater is designed to approach,
but not exceed, a specific temperature set point. When a
heater is powered, it warms to its designed set point and
maintains that temperature within a narrow band.
SmartHeat Resources
Learn more about SmartHeat technology on Minco.com:
• SmartHeat white paper
• SmartHeat FAQ
• Webinar
SmartHeat SLT™ Heaters
Minco’s self-limiting heaters require no sensor or controller