1. Standard Low Watt Density Cartridge Heater (Ceramic Core)
For applications that do not require high watt density or extreme temperatures, the Hongtai Low Density Cartridge Heater offers a reliable and budget-friendly solution. Unlike our high-performance swaged heaters, this “Economy” series utilizes a multi-hole ceramic core design where the resistance wire is inserted rather than compacted.
This structure is simpler to manufacture, making it the perfect general purpose heater for cost-sensitive projects, water heating applications, or large-volume OEM machinery where the operating temperature remains below 300°C and vibration is minimal.
2. Key Technical Features
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Cost Effective: Significantly lower price point than high-density swaged heaters, ideal for high-volume orders.
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Loose Wire Design: The resistance coils are supported by a ceramic insulator, allowing for easy expansion and contraction in lower-stress environments.
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Applications: Best suited for immersion in water/oil or loose-fit holes where heat transfer speed is not critical.
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Repairable: In some large diameter models, the internal ceramic core can be removed for inspection (though replacement is usually recommended).
3. Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Standard Specification | Difference vs. High Density |
| Internal Construction | Ceramic Core (Non-Swaged) | High Density is MgO Swaged |
| Watt Density | Max 3 – 5 W/cm² (30 W/in²) | High Density is 25 W/cm² |
| Max Temperature | 300°C – 400°C | High Density is 800°C |
| Diameter Tolerance | -0.1mm to -0.2mm (Looser) | High Density is -0.02mm |
| Sheath Material | Stainless Steel 304 | – |
| Voltage | 120V / 240V | – |
| Lead Connection | Crimped External Leads | – |
4. When to Use Low Density?
Choose this ceramic core heater if:
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Budget is priority: You are building low-cost consumer appliances or general machinery.
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Low Temperature: Your process runs under 300°C (e.g., water boiling, wax melting, rubber molding).
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Loose Fit: Your mounting hole is drilled with a standard twist drill (not reamed) and has a loose tolerance. Low density heaters are more forgiving of poor heat transfer than high density ones.
5. Applications
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Water Tanks: Simple immersion heating (with fitting).
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Food Warmers: Bain maries and coffee urns.
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Rubber Molding: Presses requiring slow, steady heat.
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Pellet Stoves: Igniter elements (specific designs).
6. FAQ
Q: Can I use this to replace a high-density heater?
A: No. If your machine was designed for a high-watt density heater (e.g., a small heater with high power), this low-density model will likely not fit (physically larger for same power) or will burn out instantly if you try to push high watts through it.
Q: Why is the diameter tolerance looser?
A: Since these are not swaged (compressed), the sheath diameter is determined by the raw tube size. They are designed for “loose fit” holes or immersion, so precision grinding is unnecessary, saving you money.
Q: Do you stock these?
A: Yes, we carry a large inventory of standard diameters (12mm, 16mm, 20mm) in common voltages for immediate shipment.
Need help choosing between High and Low Density?
Read our Heater Selection Guide or Contact Us for a free engineering consultation.
