Wattage Formulas

Basic Heat Equation for Heating Solid Materials:

1. Kilowatts for material heat up:

Weight of Material (Density lbs./in^3) x Specific Heat (Btu/lb) x Temperature Rise (Deg F)
3412 x Heat Up Time (Hours)

2. Heat Losses at Operating Temperature (Kilowatts):

Watts loss (see below) x Area (sq. foot)
1000

Total Kilowatts Required = (Steps 1 + 2) + 20%

To Melt or Vaporize the Material:

Kilowatts needed to Melt or Vaporize:

Weight of Material (Density lbs./in^3) x Heat of Fusion or Vaporization (Specific Heat Btu/lb)
3.412 x Heat up Time (Hours)

Total Kilowatts Required = (Steps 1 + 2 + 3) + 20%