Heat is generated by the electrical resistance of a conductor when an electric current flows through it. This physical principle is used in plastics processing to heat components such as barrels, tools, or heating plates in a controlled manner. Electrical heating elements convert electrical energy directly into thermal energy, bringing process components to the temperatures required for melting or conditioning plastics. The method enables precise temperature control and is therefore widely used in equipment such as extruders and injection molding machines.
Injection molding process: Heating tape in the area of the machine nozzle, serving as a Joule heater
Related topics:
Extrusion
This glossary of plastic industry is provided by PLEXPERT Canada Inc.
