Infrared (IR) heating technology is quickly becoming the go-to solution for industries that require precise, energy-efficient heating.

Understanding how infrared works can help you enhance your processes and reduce costs. But how does it actually work—and what makes it so effective? 

What Is Infrared?

Infrared heating uses electromagnetic radiation to transfer heat, sitting just beyond the visible red portion of the light spectrum. Infrared waves are absorbed by objects and surfaces, instantly turning into heat engery. Unlike traditional methods that warm the air first, infrared directly heats materials, which can result in faster, more efficient processes. 

This makes infrared particularly effective in sectors like PET (polyethylene terephthalate) production and printing, where precision and speed are key.

How Does Infrared Heating Work?

Infrared lamps emit electromagnetic waves that penetrate the surface of materials. Infrared heating relies on emitters—typically in the form of lamps or panels—that radiate infrared waves toward a target. When these waves are absorbed by a material, the energy is converted into heat almost instantly.

Unlike conventional heating methods, infrared systems warm products or materials quickly and efficiently. Because IR heating doesn't require contact or convection (moving air), it's especially useful in environments where airflow may vary or traditional heating would be inefficient, making it perfect for processes that require precise temperature control.

For example, in the PET industry, infrared is used to heat preforms evenly and quickly before they are blown into bottles. In printing, infrared can cure inks and coatings with pinpoint accuracy, providing uniform results without the need for excessive heat that could damage sensitive materials.

Advantages of Infrared Heating

• Instant and Efficient Heat: Infrared heating provides rapid, direct heat that reduces startup times and energy consumption.
• Energy Savings: As infrared directly heats the object rather than the air, there’s minimal energy loss, resulting in cost savings.
• Precision and Control: Ideal for industries where exact temperature control is critical, such as PET molding or curing coatings in printing.
• No Contact Required: Ideal for delicate or moving materials on production lines.
• Consistent Performance: Infrared heaters maintain a constant heat level, unaffected by airflow or drafts, ensuring uniform results every time.

These benefits make infrared heating the preferred choice for industrial applications that demand high precision, such as PET manufacturing, digital printing, and other specialist processes. As well as food processing and outdoor heating. Infrared solutions offer unmatched reliability and control.

Why Wavelength Matters

Not all infrared radiation is the same. Different materials absorb infrared energy at different wavelengths. For infrared heating to work effectively, the emitter must produce the right type of IR for the target material. 

There are three main types of infrared:

• Short-wave (near IR): Deep penetration, perfect for heating dense materials like metals.

• Medium-wave: Suitable for plastics, coatings, food applications, and glass—common in industries like PET molding and printing.

• Long-wave (far IR): Gentle heating, used for materials that require lower temperatures, such as textiles, paper or drying applications.

Choosing the wrong wavelength can lead to energy waste or uneven heating. That’s why wavelength selection is one of the most important factors in designing a successful infrared heating system.

How Victory Can Help

At Victory, we specialise in infrared solutions that meet specific industry applications (including PET, printing and industrial processing industries). We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. That's why our Technical Department works closely with you to analyse the specific application, materials and environement to design custom infrared heating systems that deliver the optimal absorption and energy use.

We offer:

• Expert guidance on IR emitter selection
• Custom wavelength matching to your substrate
• Precision control systems for temperature and timing
• Ongoing support to ensure long-term performance

With decades of experience and a reputation for quality, Victory is partner in precision infrared heating.

Want to find out more or speak with one of our IR specialists? Contact us to find out how our infrared heating solutions can streamline your production and reduce costs.