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Heater
The cable chain / conduits between the heaters and the control cabinet contain a number of heatproof
power cables. Due to the continual motion of the heater these may eventually suffer from fatigue and re-
quire replacement. Only the correct grade of cable should be used, and the work carried out by a skilled tech-
nician. The Quartz heating elements should be periodically inspected particularly for hairline cracks. There is
usually no specific reason for this occurring other than through age due to the expansion & contraction. If an
element fails to heat and the terminations are correct then it will require replacement.
The element terminal connections on the element tray require periodic tightening as result of continued ex-
pansion, contraction & vibration. Remove the heater cover. Remove every terminal block cover and systema-
tically check & tighten every terminal block screw ensuring that every wire is securely in place. This procedure
may be repeated every 6-12 months depending on usage.
For the reasons stated, the elements, associated cables, connectors, fuses and triac controllers are
specifically excluded from our standard warranty.
Fault Diagnostics / Maintenance
How to check a heating element
If you notice there is a cold area on heated plastics, it may be that a heating zone or heating element is not
working correctly. In either case the first step is to check the wiring at the terminal block. It is not always
obvious that they are loose or disconnected.
1- First, check that the heating zones are set correctly, set all the zones to 70% and check for even heat and
softening plastic when the heater is held over the forming are with plastic sheet fitted. Make a note of areas
where the plastic remains hard to determine if it is a single element of entire zone.
2- If an entire zone is not functioning then remove the top cover and check that the wiring is not loose or
has become disconnected for that particular zone. You will have to remove relevant terminal block covers
to determine this. If all appears OK then set the defective zone to 100% and check the voltage at the zone
using a suitable volt meter.
3- If no voltage is present then contact Formech for service and advice.
If a single element is found to be faulty then it will require replacement. See the following page.
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