What does ITM stand for?

ITM is short for Industrial Thermal Management and stands for DBK's business unit that focuses on industrial solutions.

The ITM division is represented in several countries. Who is my contact person?

Our ITM team in the UK is responsible for industrial customers from UK, Ireland, Australia, India and Souch Africa . More information on the contact page.

Where can I find technical data and data sheets?

All technical data (data sheets, drawings, approvals) can be found on the respective product page and can be downloaded there.

Which solution is best for my application?

The design of a heating or cooling solution depends on many factors - e.g. on the medium to be tempered, and the temperature difference. We are happy to do the calculations for you. Just give us some basic data and we will take care of the rest! Send us an enquiry

What approvals / certifications do the products have (e.g. VDE, UL)?

The approvals or certifications of a product are documented on the data sheet and the product page.

I couldn’t find what I need. Do you also offer solutions with custom power / voltage rating?

Yes - custom solutions are our specialty! Our engineers developed countless individual solutions for customers with all kinds of applications - from modified standard to patented new developments. Learn more

What is Drymatic?

Drymatic is an innovative drying system for water damage restauration in buildings. Learn more

How can I apply for a job at DBK?

You can find all information on careers and open positions on our career website (available in German only).

Where can I learn more about the DBK Group?

All information about the DBK Group can be found on our corporate website.

Who should I address my complaint / query to?

The best person to contact is your sales contact as this is where all customer information comes together. He/she will make sure that your complaint will be processed as quickly as possible by our quality management.

I need a spare part, who should I contact?

Please contact the manufacturer of the device/module in which the heating element is installed.

What is the frequency of the newsletter?

Our newsletter is published once every three months and contains exciting information on new products, technologies, application fields and tradeshow events. In addition, we send out a digital Christmas Card in December.

How can I contact sales?

You can best reach our sales team by e-mail or by using the enquiry form. Alternatively, you can always find your sales contact person on our quotes and order confirmations.

How can I contact order processing?

You can find your personal contact person for all questions regarding orders and delivery dates on our order confirmation.

Which information is required to place an order?

Based on the quote you received, we will need the article number(s), the quantity(s), the desired delivery date and the delivery address(es).  For new customers, we also need the complete company name, billing address, VAT ID number, as well as the contact information and function of the contact person. Please also note the Credit Account Application Form and Terms and Conditions of Sales in the download section.

How do I order?

We prefer to receive all enquiries and orders by e-mail.

When will I receive an order confirmation?

After receiving your order we will send an order confirmation within 3-5 business days.

On my order confirmation is says “Delivery date advised later”, what does that mean?

“Delivery date advised later” means that your order is already being processed but requires further in-house coordination. The delivery date will be announced as soon as possible with an updated order confirmation. We kindly ask for your patience.

Is there a minimum order value per purchase order or item?

No, there is no minimum order value per item.

Where can I find DBK's general terms and conditions / delivery conditions?

DBK Technitherm's General Terms and Conditions & Terms of Sales are available as PDF files in the download section.

Where can I find quality certificates?

The quality certificates of DBK Technitherm are available as PDF file in the download section.

I am a supplier and would like to introduce myself. Who should I contact?

Contact for suppliers: itm-uk[at]dbk-group.com

How do I reach the technical support?

Your first point of contact for any technical questions or questions about our solutions is the sales department. If you do not have a personal contact person yet, please use our general enquiry form.

Are DBK heating elements suitable for different voltage ranges?

Yes, thanks to the PTC effect, our PTC heating elements can be operated in voltage ranges of e.g. 24 - 48V or 100 - 240V at almost constant power (multi-voltage capability). This allows for safe operation at different voltage ratings.

How can I control the temperature of my component without additional controls in terms of temperature limitation and safety?

With the correct design of the PTC heating element in terms of temperature and power, the desired temperature in your application is set automatically.

Does DBK offer heating elements with electrical protection class?

Almost all PTC heating elements are designed in protection class II and are approved by VDE accordingly. This means that no additional grounding is required to ensure electrical insulation.

Are DBK‘s heating elements approved for the global market?

Generally, almost all PTC heating elements have worldwide approvals such as CE, VDE, UL, CSA etc. The approvals for each product can be found on the respective product page and on the data sheet. All products

Do DBK heating elements meet fire protection standards?

Almost all PTC heating elements are classified as "non-flammable" according to UL 94 V-0. In conjunction with their limited surface temperature, they also comply with the applicable standards depending on the application.

Are DBK's heating elements energy-efficient?

Our PTC heating elements are energy-efficient thanks to their dynamic power adaptation. Their high initial power output automatically decreases as the temperature in the application increases. Power only when needed.

Would DBK be a good development partner for me?

Definitely! We support our customers in all matters relating to temperature control - from the initial enquiry to the start of serial production. DBK is a reliable partner along the entire development process. Learn more

I am looking for a custom solution.

Welcome at DBK! Custom solutions are our specialty. Our engineers built numerous individual solutions for customers with a wide variety of applications - from modified standards to patented new developments. We look forward to your enquiry!

How do I submit a product request?

If you already decided on a product, you can send an enquiry from the product page by clicking on the "Request product" button. If you are not yet sure which solution is best for your application, simply use the custom solution enquiry form.

Where can I find product specifications/data sheets/drawings/3-D models? 

All data sheets, information sheets and technical drawings can be found on the respective product pages. For further product documentation please send us an enquiry.

What is the best solution for my heating / cooling application?

This is the question we address every day! Many of our customers need to heat or cool their application, but are no heating or cooling experts themselves. And this is why they come to us. Just give us some basic data and we will take care of the rest! Send us an enquiry

What does PTC stand for?

PTC is short for Positive Temperature Coefficient and stands for one of our heating technologies. Unlike traditional heating wire, PTC heating technology is based on ceramics that have a fixed maximum temperature and cannot overheat. Therefore, PTC heaters are often used in applications that require high operational reliability, e.g. in automobiles. Another word for PTC is semiconductor.

How does PTC work?

PTCs or semiconductors are ceramic heating elements which undergo a logarithmic change in resistance in response to temperature changes. This means that the heating element limits itself with rising temperature due to its increasing resistance, without any complex safety or control electronics. Learn more about PTC Technology

When do I use a PTC heating solution?

PTC heating solutions are suitable for all applications that require high safety, homogeneous heat distribution and dynamic power, without electronic control. Their multi-voltage capability (110 - 240V) also makes them suitable for worldwide usage. We always examine both technologies (Wire and PTC) based on your request and recommend the best technical and most economical solution.

Can I supply a PTC with both, DC and AC voltage?

Yes, a PTC heating element can be operated with DC and AC voltage.

In which cases is a wire heating solution more suitable?

Wire heating solutions are suitable for applications with high temperatures > 240°C or for systems in which inrush currents should be avoided. We always examine both technologies (Wire and PTC) based on your request and recommend the best technical and most economical solution. Learn more about Wire Heating

What is the difference between PTC heating technology and wire heating technology?

The difference between the two technologies essentially lies in their physical heating behavior:

PTC:

• The power of a PTC heater depends on the heat extraction. The more heat is extracted, the higher the power.

• PTC heaters are fail-safe due to the PTC effect and do not require any additional thermal fuse

• PTC heaters pass through an increased inrush current for a few seconds each time they are switched on.

• The maximum surface temperature of PTC heating elements is 240°C.

• PTC heaters can be operated in a wide voltage range, e.g. 100 - 240V, without any impact on performance.

Wire:

• The power of a wire heating element depends on the voltage.

• Wire heating elements should be safeguarded by a temperature limiter.

• Due to their constant resistance, wire heating elements do not exhibit any inrush current during switch-on.

• Wire heating elements are very robust and suited for high temperature applications up to 950°C.

• In contrast to PTC contact heaters, wire heaters can be designed with a very flat and large heating surface, e.g. flat wire wound on Micanite.

What is Peltier?

The so-called Peltier effect was discovered in 1834 by the physicist Jean Peltier, who was the first to generate cold with electric current and thus became the eponym for this cooling technology.

How does Peltier work?

By applying a DC voltage to differently doped semiconductors, a heat transport from the negatively charged side to the positively charged side is triggered. This creates a cold and a warm side. The Peltier effect is used, for example, in our electric thermocoolers. Learn more about Peltier Technology

How do I dimension a heater or cooler?

The required heating or cooling capacity depends on many factors - e.g. on the medium to be tempered and the temperature difference to be achieved. We will happily do your calculations. Just give us some basic data and we will take care of the rest! Send us an enquiry

What is the difference between a PTC Contact Heating Element and a PTC Cartridge Heater?

In PTC Contact Heaters, the PTC ceramic is press-fitted into an aluminum profile for optimal power output. In PTC Cartridge Heaters, the PTC ceramic is enclosed in a silicone jacket which allows for smaller and circular designs.

What is the surface temperature of a PTC Contact Heating Element?

The maximum surface temperature of PTC Heating Elements can be specified within a range of approx. 60°C to max. 240°C.

Is it possible to operate PTC Heating Elements / PTC Cartridge Heaters without an additional temperature fuse?

Yes. Due to the PTC effect, the heating element limits itself to the specified temperature, there is no danger of overheating.

How can I keep my component at temperature using a PTC Heating Element without separate control?

With the correct design of the PTC heating element, the desired temperature in the application is achieved without additional control.

Can I operate a PTC Contact Heater at a wide voltage range and what are the consequences?

Yes, PTC heaters are multi-voltage capable and can be operated at 100 - 240 V with almost the same power. This is a great advantage over conventional heating elements.

Why is it not possible to calculate the exact power output of a PTC Contact Heating Element?

As PTC Heating Elements are dynamic heating elements, their performance strongly depends on the application conditions. The correct design of the heating element is crucial which is why our engineers always design a heater based on the input of the customer.

Which factors must be considered when connecting a PTC Contact Heater?

PTC heaters experience an increased inrush current for a few seconds each time they are switched on. We therefore recommend to use a time-delay fuse in order to protect the application.

What are typical applications of PTC Contact Heating Elements?

They can be used for all applications that require heating of components or housings with high efficiency but limited space. Due to their protection class II design, PTC contact heating elements are also suited for safety-relevant applications.

What are typical applications of PTC Cartridge Heaters?

PTC Cartridge Heaters are used for very low power and low temperature applications. Their high flexibility in shape makes them suitable for most difficult space conditions.

What is the difference between a PTC Fan Heater and a PTC Radial Fan Heater?

They mainly differ in their design and the available power levels. Cirrus Fan Heaters use an axial fan and can be directly installed into customer housings. LA09 Fan Heaters use a radial fan and require an additional housing for mounting. Further technical information can be found on the product pages.

How can I control the output of a PTC Fan Heater?

The power of a PTC Fan Heater cannot be regulated by changing the voltage. However, it is possible to adjust the power using a classic 2-point control or PWM control. Please note that the fan speed will not be reduced. The power can also be adjusted - if available - by wiring different power levels.

Are PTC fan heaters suitable for operation in wide voltage ranges?

No. PTC Fan Heaters can only be operated with the supply voltage specified on the type plate.

Can I operate fan and heater separately? If yes, what must be considered? 

Yes, the fan and heating element can be operated separately. This enables recirculation operation for cooling. However, it must be noted that the heating element must not be operated without the fan.

Is it possible to operate PTC Fan Heaters without an additional temperature fuse?

Due to the PTC effect, there is no need for a thermal fuse in most cases. However, an additional thermal fuse or limiter may be necessary in applications where the permissible temperatures are below the PTC self-limiting temperature.

Which factors must be considered when connecting a PTC Fan Heater?

The connection must be installed according to the type plate. The heating element may only be operated in combination with the fan.

What are typical applications of PTC Fan Heaters?

PTC Fan Heaters are suitable for temperature control, frost prevention and protection against moisture in housings of all kinds, such as in control cabinets, ATMs, ticket machines, parking ticket machines, access systems, fuel pumps, energy ports, building security systems, building management systems, landscaping systems, and much more.

What is the surface temperature of a PTC Convection Heater?

The maximum surface temperature depends on the dimensions and power. At power levels above 150 W, the aluminum profiles can reach up to 180°C. If there are special requirements for low temperatures of touchable surfaces, this can be solved using the optional touch protection made of temperature-resistant plastics.

Is it possible to operate PTC Convection Heaters without an additional temperature fuse?

Yes. Due to the PTC effect, the heating element limits itself to the specified temperature, there is no danger of overheating.

Can I operate a PTC Convection Heater at a wide voltage range and what are the consequences?

Yes, PTC Convection Heaters are multi-voltage capable and can be operated at 100 - 240 V with almost the same power. This is a great advantage over conventional heating elements.

Which factors must be considered when connecting a PTC Convection Heater?

PTC heaters experience an increased inrush current for a few seconds each time they are switched on. We therefore recommend to use a time-delay fuse in order to protect the application.

What are typical applications of PTC Convection Heaters?

PTC Convection Heaters are suitable for all applications in which electrical cabinets, enclosures or components must be protected against frost and condensation. Since convection heaters do not require a fan, operating temperatures down to - 40°C and voltage ranges from 100 - 240 V are possible.

What is the difference between the three types of PTC Air Heaters: HRKK-V, HRKK Delta and HRP? 

From a technical point of view, the three types differ mainly in their fin shape and electrical insulation. PTC Air Heaters of the HRKK-V series come with traditional v-shaped fins and live parts. PTC Air Heaters of the HRKK-Delta series are equipped with patented delta-shaped fins but also have live parts. Insulated PTC Air Heaters of the HRP series can be ordered with either v- or delta-shaped fins and are electrically insulated.   

• HRKK-V: V-shaped fins / live parts 

• HRKK Delta: Delta-shaped fins / live parts 

• HRP: V- or Delta-shaped fins / electrically insulated 

What are special features of the HRP series?  

The HRP range are the only type of air heaters to feature electrically insulated heating elements. As a result, the air heaters are more resistant to moisture and dirt. Due to their characteristics, HRP's should only be controlled using PWM (pulse width modulation) to avoid thermo-mechanical stress within the heating element.  

There are two types available:  

• HRP - for standard voltage (230V).  

• HRP High Voltage - for high voltages of 400 - 600V  

Note: Please always specify your specific application purpose when submitting your inquiry. These products are based on a modular system and are suitable for many fields of application. The specific area of application should always be discussed with our sales department in advance - we will be happy to advise you individually!  

What is the surface temperature of a PTC Air Heater? What is the maximum air outlet temperature? 

The surface temperature of PTC Air Heaters depends on the PTC, the air inlet temperature and the air flow rate. In case of failure, the surface can only become as hot as the pre-defined PTC temperature. The maximum temperature of the PTC can be selected between 80°C and 240°C. Note: Reducing the temperature also reduces the performance. 

Is it possible to operate PTC Air Heaters without an additional temperature fuse? 

PTC Air Heaters are fail-safe thanks to the PTC effect. Even in the event of a failure (no air flow) they cannot overheat. However, in order to protect surrounding components that are not temperature-resistant, we recommend to use a thermal switch that switches off the heater in the event of failure. 

How can I control the power output of PTC Air Heaters? 

The power output of PTC Air Heaters can be adjusted by altering the air flow rate. The following applies: little air, little power - lots of air, lots of power. In addition, we recommend the following options for power control: 

• HRKK series: switching or timing of individual heating circuits is possible; more precise control via PWM.  

• HRP series: regulation exclusively via PWM, switching or clocking of individual heating circuits is NOT possible. 

Can I use a PWM power control for PTC Air Heaters? Under which conditions? 

In general, power regulation using pulse width modulation (PWM) is possible. However, there are some specific details to be considered. Please contact us for support. 

Can I operate PTC Air Heaters at a wide voltage range and what are the consequences? 

Yes. A great advantage of PTC heating technology is its multi-voltage capability. Low voltage variants are possible as well. Please note that due to Ohm's law, the inrush current increases with higher voltage. The output remains almost the same. Please refer to the respective data sheet of the individual product and contact us for technical support in case of doubt. 

Which factors must be considered when connecting a PTC Air Heater? 

Due to their self-limiting characteristic, PTC Air Heaters must always be switched in parallel, otherwise they will limit each other. Futher, we recommend to use a time-delay fuse due to the increased inrush current. 

What are typical applications of PTC Air Heaters? 

PTC Air Heaters are very flexible and can be used in any application that requires homogeneous heating of air flows. Those are, e.g.: Heating for railway applications, cabin heating for special-purpose vehicles, control cabinet heating, air dryer & dehumidifier, pre-heaters or post-heaters for air conditioning and ventilation systems with heat recovery (low-energy houses), and much more.  

PTC Air Heaters are based on a modular system and are suitable for many fields of application. The specific area of application should always be discussed with our sales department in advance - we will be happy to advise you individually! 

What applications is the high-voltage water heater suitable for? 

The high-voltage water heater is a special industrial version. Therefore, we cannot meet any special automotive standards. In order to find the best solution for your needs, please always specify your specific application purpose when submitting your inquiry. The high-voltage water heater is an interior heater to heat water circuits in special-purpose vehicles for industrial applications - e.g. in buses, excavators, cranes, construction vehicles, etc. The specific area of application should always be discussed with our sales department in advance - we will be happy to advise you individually! 

What applications is the high-voltage PTC Air Heater (HRP) suitable for? 

The high voltage air heater is a special industrial design. Therefore, we cannot meet any special automotive standards. In order to find the best solution for your needs, please always specify your specific application purpose when submitting your inquiry. Air heaters of the HRP series are suitable for heating air flows in special-purpose vehicles or railway applications - e.g. cabin heating, cockpit heaters for buses, excavators, cranes, construction site vehicles, etc. The specific area of application should always be discussed with our sales department in advance - we will be happy to advise you individually! 

Does DBK also offer standard solutions in the wire heating sector?

Our wire heating solutions are custom solutions. The only exception is the high-voltage water heater.

How do I design a wire heating solution?

The required heating capacity depends on many factors - e.g. on the medium to be tempered and the temperature difference to be achieved. We will happily do your calculations. Just give us some basic data and we will take care of the rest! Send us an enquiry

What is the surface temperature of a Wire Heater?

Depending on the application and heat conduction, wire heating elements can generate very high surface temperatures and are therefore suitable for use in applications that require high power density. A general maximum temperature is difficult to define. 

What is the maximum output of Wire Heaters?

Currently, we offer wire heating elements with a power of up to 30KW. We will happily check your request for a higher power requirement. 

Is it possible to operate Wire Heating Elements without an additional temperature fuse?

No. Wire heating elements require temperature monitoring to protect against overheating.

Can I operate Wire Heating Elements at a wide voltage range?

No. Wire heating elements are designed for a defined nominal voltage, which must not be exceeded during operation.

How can I regulate the power of a Wire Heating Solution?

Due to Ohm's law, the power changes depending on the voltage.

Which factors must be considered when connecting a Wire Heater?

Please observe the voltage information on the heating element. 

What are typical applications of Wire Heating Elements?

Wire heating solutions are particularly suitable for applications requiring high power density, fast response time and high surface temperature.

What is the difference between Peltier Thermoelectric Cooler and conventional compressor cooling systems?

Peltier Thermoelectric Coolers generate cold using electrical energy and, unlike compressor cooling systems, do not require any cooling liquid or mechanically moving parts.

What are the advantages of Peltier Cooling Technology?

• Installation position: They are mobile and can be installed in any mounting position.

• Durability: They have no mechanically moving parts, which results in low wear and tear and minimal maintenance.

• Robust: They are insensitive to vibration, shocks, high ambient temperatures, polluted ambient air and strong accelerations.

• Control accuracy: The temperature of a thermocooler is electrically controllable and can be set very precisely.

• Reversible: Due to the Peltier effect, the Thermoelectric Cooler can be used as a heater or cooler by simply reversing the direction of the current.

Can I operate Peltier Thermocooler at a wide voltage range?

No, Peltier Thermocooler can only be operated with direct current. Please follow the instructions on the device.

What are typical applications of Peltier Thermoelectric Coolers?

Peltier Thermocooler feature a cooling capacity of max. 200W and are used in applications with limited installation space such as food trolleys, food distribution systems, food transport; food and beverage cooling; air conditioning of electrical housings and control cabinets, CCTV, ATMs, control panels, etc.

What is the difference between a thermostat, a dualstat and an inline thermostat?

Thermostats and Dualstats feature an adjustable switching temperature and are suitable for mounting on DIN rails in housings. Inline thermostats cannot be adjusted, but are equipped with a thermostat featuring a pre-assembled switching temperature.

When do I need a thermostat or hygrostat?

Hygrostats can be used to control switch cabinet heating systems if a previously set relative humidity must not be exceeded. Thermostats are used as temperature controls in enclosures.

How does a thermostat work?

Bi-metal thermostats essentially consist of a temperature switch. The switch position is changed by a bi-metal strip inside, which opens or closes a contact depending on the previously set temperature.

How does a hygrostat work?

A hygrostat is a controller that reacts to the relative humidity in a switch cabinet and switches a mechanical contact according to the pre-set value via the linear expansion of a moisture-sensitive material pre-tensioned with the rotary control.

What does the term hysteresis stand for?

In control engineering, hysteresis describes a delayed change in action after a change in the cause and thus the difference between the switching on and off of a control valve or actuator.

How do I connect a contoller to a heating or cooling unit?

Mechanical thermostats are connected upstream of the unit and connected to phase (L).

What does "normally closed" and "normally open" stand for in a thermostat?

These are two types of contacts. The normally closed contact is closed in the resting state. It interrupts an electric circuit when it is actuated.  The normally open contact is open in the rest state. It closes the contact when it is actuated.

How does a PTC Condensate Evaporator work?

A PTC Condensate Evaporator is an automatic, universal system with enclosed housing and integrated tank. Depending on the application, the evaporator is permanently or periodically under voltage. In the so-called dry run mode (without liquid), the PTC heater only produces a low heat output. As soon as condensate enters the collection tank, heat is extracted from the aluminum profile of the PTC heater which increases its power and automatically starts the evaporation process. The steam is removed to the outside via the steam outlet.

Can I operate a PTC Condensate Evaporator at a wide voltage range? What are the consequences?

Yes. The PTC Condensate Evaporator can be operated worldwide at 100 - 240 V with almost constant evaporation capacity.

Which factors must be considered when connecting a PTC Condensate Evaporator?

The PTC Condensate Evaporator features protection class II, which is why only N and L need to be connected electrically. When connecting the hose to the condensate inlet and the steam outlet, the dimensions in the description must be observed.

What are typical applications of PTC Condensate Evaporators?

The PTC Condensate Evaporator is suitable for evaporating demineralized water from refrigerators, air conditioners and similar devices. It can be used in all applications where condensate is produced and must be removed, e.g. in the control cabinets and enclosures.