World Leader in advanced materials

Heating Elements Overview

From kettle elements to oilrig pipelines, UCM produces magnesia in a broad range of specifications and grades for manufacturers worldwide. Magnesia (magnesium oxide, or MgO) is used in sheathed electrical heating elements because of its unique combination of thermal conductivity and electrical resistivity, even at relatively high temperatures.

Statistical Process Control systems ensure that the properties of the delivered product meet closely-defined specifications. Each product grade is manufactured to a controlled composition, yielding consistent and predictable electrical properties.

Every grade has carefully controlled particle size distribution and tap density - guaranteeing consistent elongation - and every product blend is performance-tested. The results of these strict testing procedures are available for customer approval prior to dispatch.

UCM offers a comprehensive range of MgO formulas suitable for both domestic appliances and industrial applications, all designed to perform efficiently across a broad range of operating temperatures. UCM magnesia is used in kettles, cookers, freezers, instantaneous showers, washing machines, and on/offshore oil pipeline installations, to name but a few.

All electrical grade magnesias can be given a uniform silicone coating. Such coatings provide a high degree of resistance to moisture and greatly improved cold insulation resistance values for low duty elements exposed to conditions of high humidity.

During the manufacturing process elements filled with coated powder can be left unsealed for long periods of time without the danger of moisture pickup.

Since design and manufacturing techniques have a great effect on the final properties of an element, each customer must make their own tests to determine the suitability of silicone coated powder for a particular element application, alternative coatings are available to suit a range of customers manufacturing methods.

The physical properties of silicone coated powder are very similar to those of uncoated powder, but as there is no visual difference between coated and uncoated powder, care must be exercised not to confuse the powders.

• Suggested uses are based upon general and various applications by customers over a long period of time.
• Unless coated, Magnesium Oxide is hydroscopic and must be stored in dry conditions.
• All technical information is typical but does not imply any warranty.
• Further information is available on request.
• Standard packaging for magnesia is in 25 Kg heat-sealed bags alternative packaging is also available by special arrangement.