Operational Guidelines - Infrared Source Series 6x

The HawkEye IR-6x Series utilizes a thin thermoresistive film of conducting amorphous (diamond-like) carbon. Infrared radiation is the result of heating this film by passing an electric current through it.

The maximum temperature of the film should not exceed 750°C in continuous operation. A faint red luminescence of the film is observed during operation at temperatures near 750°C. Short term heating up to 850°C is possible but will reduce the lifetime of the unit.

The operating parameters assume an infrared source operating without a radiator and at ambient temperature and pressure. A rectangular voltage pulsed at a frequency of 10 hertz and with a duty cycle of 50% is used for heating.

Two power leads and a ground are provided per the sketch below. The IR-60 emitter is to be powered through the two power leads. Bi-polar drive voltage may be used. The Case Ground Lead is not required under normal operation.

IR-6x Bottom View

The HawkEye IR-6x Series is the perfect solution for an application that requires fast electrical modulation. However, it can also be used in a steady state (dc) mode. In applications where steady state power is used (or if used with electrical modulation but with a duty cycle of greater than 50%), it is recommended that the nominal input power specifications be reduced in order to avoid overheating of the membrane.

On the other hand, by reducing the length of the heating pulse or by increasing the frequency of modulation, the membrane will not have sufficient time to reach the desired temperature. In this case, the pulsed power can be increased to allow the temperature to be maintained. The chart below shows the factor by which the voltage can be increased as frequency is increased. This chart reflects a 50% duty cycle.