Jingwei Heat Introduces Thermal Resistance Model for Aluminum Foil Heaters

Shengzhou Jinwei Electric Heating Appliance Co., Ltd. has developed a new model to aid refrigeration OEMs in evaluating the thermal resistance of aluminum foil heaters. The model specifically addresses the critical 0.15 mm pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer.

This adhesive layer thickness is presented as a key design variable, balancing requirements for peel strength (above 25 N/25 mm), dielectric withstand (above 2500 V), and contact conduction resistance (below 0.05 K·m²/W).

The company's analysis outlines a three-layer thermal resistance network (foil, adhesive, substrate) and identifies four variables influencing the temperature difference (ΔT) across the bond line. It also details five potential failure modes that can occur if the adhesive layer deviates from the specified 0.15 mm thickness.

Jingwei Heat states this model is used internally to ensure a verified 8–12 °C ΔT across the bond line at a 5 W/cm² loading. Three verification tests are proposed to calibrate the model for specific applications, such as evaporator defrost cycles and drain-line freeze prevention in refrigeration units.