When the heating tunnel goes down on the blow molder, you feel it immediately. Halogen or quartz infrared emitter fails. Preforms run cold. Output drops while you wait on a replacement that may not be true to the machine’s original spec. Even when it physically fits, mismatched wattage and response time will cost you — either in slower cycles or more scrap.
What actually matters under the hood
We build lead-wire infrared heaters as direct-fit emitters for blow molding machines, not generic heat sources. The core is a high-purity quartz tube with a tungsten filament, tuned for short-wave infrared so it responds fast. Typical ratings cover 400–1,200 W at 120/230/240 V. The leads are sized for the current and terminated in R7s or other standard connectors. We match the OEM’s watt density so the heating profile stays stable across the preform shoulder and body.
Why this matters on a stretch blow line
In stretch blow molding, preform heating sets the pace. Drop in a lead-wire infrared heater that matches the original spec, and you restore the intended heat-up curve. You can hold cycle time without constantly chasing temperature drift. Energy use comes down because the emitter hits setpoint quickly and holds steady, instead of cycling hard. And because the geometry and mounting are correct, changeover is fast — swap the lamp, align the reflector, and get back to running.
What you need to get right before you order
Installation is straightforward, but you have to confirm voltage, connector type, and mounting clearance up front. These emitters run hot, so keep wiring, reflectors, and nearby components within their rated distances. If you’re running high-cavitation tools or extended formats, specify the exact wattage and length. Otherwise you’ll risk under-heating the preforms or over-stressing the lamp.