Case Study: Preheat Oven for Cotton Filters
K-FSU

Customer Background:

Project Background:

Firestone Polymers supplies synthetic rubber, thermoplastic elastomers and impact modifiers to rubber, plastics, adhesive and asphalt markets around the world.The engineers had a specific preheating application that was required for very long, tightly-woven cotton filters used in their manufacturing processes. The filters had to be kept perfectly dry before use so that they functioned properly. A custom preheat oven was requested that could allow the 12" diameter filters to stand upright in the oven cavity and be heated to a specific temperature range of 140-150F. The heating elements had to be located on the sides of the oven beneath perforated steel covers so that the filters did not come in direct contact with the heating elements. Even though the temperature range was not very high, the part was very delicate and could not be damaged in any way. The filters were positioned on the inside base of the preheating oven and extended upwards.

For this particular application we designed a custom industrial oven from scratch and called it the K-FSU (FSU for Filter Storage Unit). This preheat oven is unique because no shelves were needed- the filters were loaded bulk into the oven. The heat radiates from the sides of the unit which is very useful for preheating long parts that can stand upright by themselves. This custom oven is useful for a variety of purposes, not just for storing filters. The temperature range can be modified for any application. A miniature programmable digital controller was installed for this oven so the temperature reading would remain very accurate.

K-FSU Preheat Oven Specifications:

Shelving Style: None
Temperature Control: Digital PID
Voltage: 120V
Cycle: 50 or 60
Wattage: 252W
Thermometer: Digital Temperature Readout on PID
On/Off Light: Yes
Insulation: 2"
Thermostat Temp Range: 50F-250F
Interior Dims: 20.5" L x 21.5" W x 40" H
Exterior Dims: 27" L x 36" W x 47"H
Net Weight: 300 lbs.
Shipping Weight: 390 lbs.

Oven Construction

Exterior

The K-FSU heat treating oven is constructed of carbon steel throughout. The oven exterior has a highly durable, powder-coat finish in blue that is resistant to scratching and corrosion. This a front-loading, floor-positioned preheating oven and is designed to be stored on a floor for ease of access to the parts being preheated.Forklift slots are welded to the bottom of the oven to facilitate movementThe door hinges are tack-welded to ensure smooth operation for many years. The control panel which houses the digital PID is mounted on the side of the oven with heavy-duty rivets. A standard "ON/OFF" indicating light was also provided, which is bright enough to be seen from a distance. A variety of temperature control methods are available at preheatovens.com.

Interior

The interior of the K-FSU preheat oven is fairly simple. No shelves were needed, but various shelving styles are available at preheatovens.com suitable for almost any custom preheating application. There are four 1000W tubular elements installed on the the sides of the oven which allows the heat to radiate inwards and around the oven. The elements are located behind perforated steel covers. The interior of the K-FSU preheating oven is painted with a reflective, galvanized paint and the interior welds are touched up with high-temperature aluminum paint.

All our preheating ovens are made in the USA and feature a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty. Parts are readily available.

Oven Photos