Flexible Silicone Heaters for Analytical InstrumentationAn Analytical Instrumentation Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) had a highly sensitive portable precision measurement instrument that is used outdoors in extreme weather environments.It was critical that the sensing devices and electronics be housed in a heated moisture proof environment. Freezing temperatures and condensation could result in incorrect measurements. The OEM had designed a single-piece anodized aluminum enclosure to protect the critical components. The enclosure itself needed to be uniformly heated. The OEM was looking for a turnkey solution that would include the aluminum enclosure, electric heaters, and temperature sensors. Durex was engaged to custom design and manufacture the turnkey enclosure assembly. Using a metal spinning process, the enclosure was formed to the dimensional specifications. Distributed wattage silicone rubber heaters with integrated thermocouples were designed to meet the temperature uniformity specifications. Considering the harsh environment, the flexible silicone heaters are vulcanized to the enclosure. Supplying a custom turnkey solution resulted in a reliable solution at a lower cost and better lead time than individually supplied components.
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