Thermal Processing of Bio Mass at 600 – 800 °C
In most applications, temperature uniformity is within 0.1°C over the liner length. Energy can be saved and productivity increased because the usable reaction zone length in a given furnace becomes larger than the active heater length. Two or more liners may be used in series to create multiple, individually controlled zones for special effects such as step changes in the temperature profile.
Thousands of IFLs are currently in use in many critically controlled processes. Standard IFLs for operation from -60°C to 1,100°C are available in a range of sizes to fit conventional furnace bores for horizontal or vertical applications. IFLs are an industry standard for primary calibration laboratories, providing precise temperature uniformity for freeze point cell calibration and blackbody cavities.
Another important application of IFLs is to isothermalize furnaces for material processing applications. Tube furnaces are commonly used for materials processing such as annealing, sintering, crystal growing, brazing and controlled diffusion to develop new materials. These tube furnaces are typically electrically heated through discrete electrical resistance heating elements. These heating elements have slightly different resistances resulting in temperature non-uniformity inside the furnace cavity. Heat losses through the ends are also a source of non-uniformity. These temperature non-uniformities often result in unfavorable product yields and misleading recipe development results, which can lead to product development delays.
Other areas where precise temperature control is important, new materials development research, thermal processes in energy conversion, nanotechnology and advanced electronics areas.
BENEFITS of IFLs
- Flat Temperature Profile (Isothermal)
- Simplified Temperature Control
- Rapid Temperature Recovery
- Increased Productivity
- Energy Savings
- Improved Temperature Stability
CUSTOM-DESIGNED IFLS
- Hemispherical, Conical, or Thru-Cavity Designs
- Flanged Ends
- Probe Insertion Wells
- Haynes for Extended High Temp. Life
- Horizontal or Vertical Oriented Cavities
- Inconel, Stainless Steel and Monel Standard Envelope Materials
- Sintered Nickel Powder Wick Structures
- Turnkey Assemblies, including pipes integrated into custom furnaces and control systems
ACT has built a number of turnkey IFL systems and is well-positioned to develop custom applications to your specifications. Our IFL systems have been shown to provide temperature uniformity, stability and repeatability that is unmatched by conventional electrical resistance heated furnaces and ovens. ACT engineers work with leading companies on a daily basis to provide thermal management solutions to challenging and often unique applications.