Infrared heating improves factory throughput

Since installing an infrared heating system from Heraeus Noblelight, Advanced Fabrics (SAAF) has improved the throughput of coated, nonwoven fabrics at its Saudi Arabian manufacturing plant to meet increased demand for its products.

Extensive tests were carried out at Heraeus' Neston Application Centre.

Various combinations of infrared emitters at various powers were trialled to ensure that sufficient heat for drying could be transferred to the fabric without affecting the polypropylene, which has a low softening and melt point. Tests were then supported with proving trials carried out by Heraeus personnel at the Saudi Arabian factory.

Results confirmed the suitability of infrared for the application.

Ian Disley of SAAF, who was instrumental in selecting the infrared option, says "The Heraeus installation has achieved our target and proved eminently costeffective."