Chromalox introduces DirectConnect as part of its Extended Voltage Technology Platform

PITTSBURGH, June 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Chromalox, a leader in advanced thermal technologies, today announced the availability of DirectConnect medium voltage electric heating systems (patents pending). These systems especially suit multi-megawatt applications in such heavy industries as power generation, oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical. Chromalox supplies up to 7200-volt DirectConnect systems for virtually any process application, such as circulation systems, heat transfer packages, and steam boilers.

According to Mark Wheeler, Chromalox Global Director of Systems & Service, systems employing Chromalox DirectConnect become cost effective for heating applications in the one megawatt range and above. "At these power levels, our studies indicate significant savings for medium voltage systems when accounting for installation as well as product cost," says Wheeler. "With our DirectConnect medium voltage system, the step-down transformer cost can be reduced or even eliminated. The decreased amperage requires fewer circuits, smaller wire sizes, and significantly less labor."

Mr. Wheeler adds that operating and maintenance costs also improve. Chromalox DirectConnect systems have less I²R energy loss, resulting in higher operating efficiencies," says Wheeler. "In general, electric process heat systems—having no moving parts and a clean, robust design—enjoy low maintenance costs," he says. "Additionally, all Chromalox DirectConnect systems incorporate replaceable medium voltage heating elements. Being able to quickly replace a single heating element can simplify maintenance and avoid costly process downtimes."

Aside from designing and building DirectConnect heating elements, Chromalox also manufactures all the associated power control panels that support the proprietary system. This in-house capability allows Chromalox to offer a full selection of controls that best meets customer needs. Power control selections such as contactor, full-SCR, or SCR-trim load provide an optimal balance between cost and performance.

For a full explanation of the benefits and savings of DirectConnect medium voltage heating systems, visit the DirectConnect webpage: http://www.chromalox.com/landing-pages/directconnect.aspx

About Chromalox, Inc.

For nearly a century, customers have relied on Chromalox for the utmost in quality and innovative solutions for commercial and industrial heating applications. Chromalox manufactures the world's largest and broadest line of electric heat and control products, including heating components, immersion heaters, circulation systems, heat transfer systems, boilers, industrial and comfort air heating, heat trace cables, sensors and precision electronic controls. With multiple manufacturing, engineering, warehousing and sales locations throughout North America, Europe and Asia, Chromalox is a global supplier providing the highest level of customer support. Chromalox is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA.

SOURCE Chromalox