The transparent quartz tube significantly enhances infrared radiation efficiency due to its unique material properties and optical characteristics. Here's how it works:
1. High Infrared Transmittance
Quartz glass (fused silica) has excellent transparency to near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) wavelengths (typically up to ~3.5–4 µm).
This allows infrared radiation from the heating element (e.g., a tungsten filament or carbon fiber) to pass through with minimal absorption, maximizing energy output.
2. Low Thermal Absorption & High Purity
Unlike ordinary glass, quartz has low impurities (e.g., iron oxides), reducing energy loss due to heat absorption.
It efficiently transmits radiant heat rather than absorbing and re-emitting it, improving direct heating efficiency.
3. Thermal Stability & Resistance
Quartz tubes can withstand extremely high temperatures (up to 1200°C or more) without degrading.
This ensures consistent infrared emission over time, unlike materials that may warp or lose transparency under heat stress.
4. Optimized Reflectivity & Refraction Control
Some quartz tubes are designed with gold or ceramic reflective coatings on the inner/outer surfaces to redirect scattered IR radiation toward the target, reducing wasted energy.
The smooth surface minimizes light scattering, ensuring focused radiation delivery.
5. Fast Thermal Response
Quartz has a low thermal mass, meaning it heats up and cools down quickly, allowing rapid adjustment of IR output for energy-efficient operation.
Applications Benefiting from Quartz Tubes
Industrial Heating: Used in IR drying, curing coatings, and semiconductor processing.
Medical/Therapeutic Devices: Efficient IR heat delivery in physiotherapy.
Scientific Instruments: Precise IR radiation control in spectroscopy and laboratory heaters.
Comparison to Alternatives
Ordinary Glass: Absorbs IR, reducing efficiency.
Ceramic Heaters: Emit broader-spectrum IR but with slower response times.
Metal Tubes: Block IR; only useful for convective heating.
