Categories: Electrification , Aluminum , Steel
Published 9 Apr 2021

Switching from gas to electric heating for your industrial processes? There’s a lot of outdated information out there, and we’re here to set the record straight. In this article, we address some of the most common myths about electric heating and explain how Kanthal’s high-temperature electric solutions meet the demanding needs of industry.

When it comes to energy efficiency, electric heating solutions are highly effective, converting most input energy directly into heat. This results in less waste, greater control, and consistent outcomes.

Myth 1: Electric heating is too slow and inefficient

Fact: There's a common belief that electric heating can’t match gas in speed or performance. Kanthal’s high-temperature heating elements are designed for fast ramp rates, quickly bringing furnaces up to their target temperature. When it comes to energy efficiency, electric heating solutions are highly effective, converting most input energy directly into heat. This results in less waste, greater control, and consistent outcomes.

Myth 2: Electric heating can’t reach above 1,000°C (1,830°F)

Fact: Kanthal’s electric heating solutions can handle extremely high furnace temperatures up to 1,850°C (3,362°F). From heat treatment to steel and glass production, electric heating is not only capable but also energy-efficient and easy to control at these extreme temperatures.

Myth 3: Electric heating is only sustainable if powered by fossil-free energy

Fact: Even when powered by electricity from fossil-based sources, electric heating still results in fewer carbon emissions than gas heating. That’s because electric systems are highly efficient, converting more energy directly into heat. Plus, power plants are often subject to stricter emissions regulations than decentralized gas systems.

Myth 4: Electric heating is an unproven technology

Fact: Electric heating isn’t new, and it isn’t experimental. Kanthal has installed electric heating systems and supplied electric heating materials worldwide for decades, across a wide range of industries. It’s also used electric heating in its production for years, proving its performance in real-world, high-demand applications.

Ready to make the switch?

Electric heating is proven, powerful, and ready to meet today’s industrial needs. Kanthal’s comprehensive range of electric heating materials and systems is customized to your process and performance requirements.

Contact us to discover how electric heating can benefit your application or browse our product selection to learn more.