Infrared radiation (IR), or infrared light, is a radiant energy that's invisible to human eye but can be felt as heat. These heat waves travel in random straight lines and are easily absorbed by inorganic surfaces such as powder coatings and liquid paint. A good example of IR being emitted is volcano lava shown below. At the point where the lava is black, the lava is still very hot, but it is emitting 'Longwave' Infrared. Gas Catalytic Infrared (IR) ovens are designed to maximize efficiency available from Infrared waves.

Medium to longwave infrared waves can be created using some simple chemistry in the form of a 'catalytic' reaction. If LPG or natural gas is passed over a pre-heated pad that has been coated with a special Platinum coating, a catalytic reaction takes place. This reaction produces three things: Heat (in the form of longwave IR), Water vapour and C02. With no NOX or other unwanted gas being produced. All Gas Catalytic Infrared (IR) ovens from WolfRayet utilize the latest generation of gas catalytic heaters in their systems.

Wolfrayet uses the latest design of Gas Catalytic IR Heaters. The face of each heater emits the IR in straight but random directions. This ensures an even spread of heat. But not all the infra red hits the part. These rays are either reabsorbed into the face of another heater or reflected on to the part.  This focussed heating pattern ensures powder is cured 50% quicker than conventional convection ovens. The heat output can be controlled, giving heater surface temperatures of 180°C to 500°C. This will generate IR between 20% to 100% of the heater capacity.

To acheive a perfect finish on engineered timber, there are two heating phases required. Firstly before powder is applied and secondly after powder application. Each these is controlled by our latest PLC control technology. By controlling the gas flow to heaters in each of designated zones, the correct heat v. time profile can be acheived for each phase of the process. Our PLC controls allow for remote control and diffferent program profiles to be saved and recalled when required.