TUTCO CONDUCTIVE
Foil Heaters
TUTCO’s Foil Heaters are designed with a high-temperature silicone resistor core, encased in a durable outer foil jacket for optimal performance. These heaters typically operate at 4.5 watts per inch of resistor core, making them an efficient choice for various warming applications where a cost-effective surface heater is needed. With a maximum temperature rating of 325°F and a standard watt density of 5 W/in²—adjustable for specific applications—Foil Heaters provide reliable and versatile heating solutions.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
- Easy to Install (when ordered with adhesive backing)
- Economical • Customized shapes available
- Lower mass means fast heat up time

APPLICATIONS
- Incubators
- Evaporators
- Battery Warmers
- Food Warmers
- Laboratory Warmers
- Constructed with a resistive heating element cable sandwiched between two thin sheets of aluminum.
- The resistive heating element cable consists of a nichrome wire wrapped around a fiberglass core which is embedded in a silicone extrusion. This element is designed to fit the area required, and placed between two layers of aluminum foil.
- Available with an adhesive backing for easy installation.
- Most foil heaters are rectangular, but can be manufactured to any custom shape with holes and cutouts. Thermostats and thermal fuses can be embedded in the heater for additional control.
- Leadwire supplied is Teflon™ coated, unless otherwise specified.
Frequently Asked Questions
To get the best performance, foil heaters should be applied to clean, flat surfaces to ensure good heat transfer. If you choose an adhesive-backed version, make sure the adhesive is compatible with your surface and operating temperature. For added safety and temperature control, thermostats or thermal fuses can be embedded directly into the heater. It’s also important to select the correct watt density for your application to prevent overheating or reducing the heater’s lifespan.
Selecting the right foil heater starts with understanding your heating requirements. Consider the temperature you need to reach, how quickly you want to heat up, and the size or shape of the surface to be warmed. From there, you can determine the appropriate watt density and mounting method—whether adhesive-backed or mechanically secured. You’ll also want to factor in details like thermostat options, wire types, and environmental conditions. If your project has unique challenges, TUTCO’s engineering team can help tailor a heater design to fit your exact specifications.
Foil heaters are known for their quick response time and even heat distribution. Because of their thin, low-mass design, they heat up rapidly and transfer heat efficiently across the surface. They’re lightweight, economical, and provide uniform warmth without the bulk of traditional heating elements. Their customizable nature means they can easily adapt to specialized uses, from incubators and battery warmers to food or laboratory equipment.