I need a component to heat a box up to 80°C. Any recommendations?
Morning guys,
I'm working on a project with my friend that requires heating the inside of a box up to a maximum of 80°C. Does anyone know of a "heating" component that could be used? I tried the Peltier module before realizing it wasn't suitable. The goal of the project is to maintain the inside of the box between 60°C and 80°C for several hours. The ventilation, timer, and temperature measurement parts are already completed. Everything is controlled by an 8266 and powered by an external power supply (I was thinking via USB-C, but it depends on the heating module if it requires more than 5V). Thanks.
Solution:Jump to solution
I don't have a specific part to recommend. However, I'd look at something qualified for automotive or industrial as they are specified to operate up to 105°C or 125°C. Consumer parts are only good to 85°C, so you may find they burn out. Best thing is to try a few and see what works. Also be aware of thermal runaway - if I remember correctly, as the device heats up, its resistance drop, causing more current to flow, which causes the resistance to drop further, resulting in more current flow...
Good luck!...
10 Replies
I think getting a module that will heat up to that type of temperature range will be very much power consuming. What is your input power, for the application, or whats the max power you are willing to generate for the system.
We used to use a MOSFET with a really small resistor as a load screwed to a metal block to create ovens for crystal oscillators. Temperature was, I think, set to 50°C but don't see why it wouldn't go higher. Hope that helps.
Hi Joseph
Thanks for your response! The project is powered by an external power supply. I was initially considering using USB-C, which provides 5V.
I will check and update you on this. It will be much better if it's operate using mains Power
Okk! If operating with mains power is more efficient and suitable for the heating module, I'm open to that option as well.
Please let me know what you find, and any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.🙏🏻
Hi Stuart thank you 🙏🏻 please do you have any specific MOSFETs or resistors you recommend for reaching and maintaining temperatures up to 80°C?
What element where you using for heating previously
I was previously using a Peltier module
Solution
I don't have a specific part to recommend. However, I'd look at something qualified for automotive or industrial as they are specified to operate up to 105°C or 125°C. Consumer parts are only good to 85°C, so you may find they burn out. Best thing is to try a few and see what works. Also be aware of thermal runaway - if I remember correctly, as the device heats up, its resistance drop, causing more current to flow, which causes the resistance to drop further, resulting in more current flow...
Good luck!