SiC Heating Element Accessories

The accessories for silicon carbide (SiC) heating elements include aluminum braided tape, used for electrical connections and efficient current transfer, and clamps, used to securely fasten and maintain stable contact between the heating elements and power connections.

Also known as flexible aluminum connection tape or aluminum foil tape, aluminum braided tape is a vital accessory for SiC heating elements, enabling connection with conductive components.

Manufactured from multiple strands of high-conductivity fine aluminum wire, the flexible braided tape is twisted, woven, and flattened to achieve both flexibility and conductivity. Its main function is to create a reliable connection between the power supply and the SiC heating element, ensuring stable operation.

Connection Method

The cold end of the connection tape, coated with aluminum, requires the installation of an aluminum braided tape to link with the power supply. All connection tapes are constructed by folding multiple layers of aluminum foil tape. These are secured to the cold end of the heating element using two steel plates with screws, while the portion of the aluminum foil tape connected to the busbar is crimped with a specialized aluminum crimping head.
Mechanical stress must not be transferred to the heating element via the aluminum foil tape; thus, the connection tape length should exceed the straight-line distance between the heating element end and the busbar by at least 25 mm. Before fastening, the aluminum foil tape should be carefully adjusted to ensure a secure fit. When tightening the screws at the heating element end, apply force naturally without bending to prevent external stress from disrupting the element’s natural state. The connection process begins by securing the heating element to the busbar, followed by sequentially linking each element. Given that silicon carbide heating elements operate under high current intensity, maintaining excellent contact between the heating element and aluminum foil tape is essential. The voltage across the connection ends should typically be less than 0.01V. As the aluminum foil tape may loosen when heated, it is recommended to retighten all connection tape screws two to three hours after the electric furnace reaches its operating temperature.

The aluminum braided tape is formed by weaving aluminum wire into an elliptical tube network using a weaving machine, followed by stretching and flattening with specialized equipment.
Common specifications include strands, single wire diameters (12150.35), (24150.35), (36150.35), or can be calculated based on the nominal cross-sectional area, ranging from 2 to 50 square millimeters, with 8-48 spindles. Market prices for aluminum braided tape are typically quoted per meter. Customization is available based on customer requirements and samples, utilizing single or multiple layers woven from multiple strands (8, 13, 17, 24, 25, 32, 36, 48 spindles).

The power capacity of the aluminum braided tape depends on the number of strands and the thickness of the aluminum wire, offering remarkable flexibility.
Multiple strands of fine aluminum flexible braided tape can handle significant currents while effectively reducing temperatures, delivering optimal heat dissipation, and ultimately extending service life.

Types of Aluminum Braided Tape

Aluminum braided tape is available in two common configurations: single-hole (with a hole at one end) and double-hole (with holes at both ends).

Single Hole Aluminum Braided Tape

Designed to connect terminals to the element, the single-hole aluminum flexible braided tape is secured with a stainless steel spring clip. It offers braided aluminum terminal tapes with rated values of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400A.
Diagram of single-hole aluminum braided tape length 

Double Hole Aluminum Braided Tape

Intended to connect terminals to terminals, the double-hole aluminum flexible braided tape is also secured with a stainless steel spring clip, providing braided aluminum terminal tapes with rated values of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400A.
Diagram of double-hole aluminum braided tape 

Ordering Specifications

For each diameter of silicon carbide rod, we have developed corresponding braided materials. Before purchasing, please inform us of the diameter of the silicon carbide rod and the rated current.

Clamps are primarily stainless steel clips, categorized into H-type, G-type, and C-type.

H Type Clamp

Also known as an M-type clip, stainless steel clip, or connection clip, the stainless steel H-type clamp is a high-quality stainless steel clamp designed for silicon carbide heating elements. It serves as a standard accessory alongside aluminum braided tape for SiC heating elements.

Specifications

Installation

The H-type clamp is used to secure the aluminum tape around the circumference, compressing the SiC heating element. Both the aluminum tape and clamp should be installed at the farthest end of the SiC heating element.

G Type Clamp

Also referred to as a stainless steel G clip or connection clip, the stainless steel G-type clamp functions similarly to the C-type clip, securing braided wire to the silicon carbide heating element. It is crafted from high-quality stainless steel.

Specifications

C Type Clamp

Also known as a stainless steel C clip or connection clip, the stainless steel C-type clamp is used to secure the aluminum tape compressed around the circumference of the SiC heating element. It is made from high-quality stainless steel.

Specifications

Installation Position of Stainless Steel C Type Clamp

The aluminum tape (a thin metal strip for electrical or thermal purposes) and the stainless steel C clip (a C-shaped fastener for mounting components) should be installed at the farthest end of the SiC resistance (silicon carbide heating element).
The "C" type terminal clip, a fastening device for electrical elements, is used in conjunction with an expansion tool—a specialized instrument designed to open the clip for placement. This makes it ideal for installations in confined spaces.

Identification of Stainless Steel C Type Clip

Numbers are printed on the stainless steel clip for easy identification and to ensure proper matching with the correct diameter of the silicon carbide (SiC) heater. The part number, which helps select the right tool, is marked on the handle of the expansion tool.

Application and Use

Stainless steel clips are used to secure the aluminum tape around the circumference of the heating element.
They are compatible with various diameters and types of silicon carbide SiC heating elements.