Essentials to understanding infrared processing
Infrared (IR) processing and convection processing have differences. This article discusses those differences and explains why no simple math can be applied to calculate the energy density requirement of the IR process. The article stresses the importance of choosing a supplier who can provide access to a quality test facility that encompasses the various IR technologies (long-, medium-, and short-wavelengths) to find the most suitable process for your curing requirements.
In convection processing, one heats an airstream, not a very dense material from a physics standpoint, and then impinges the heated airstream on the process object (part). With adequate impingement, the boundary layer at the surface of the part is constantly disrupted, allowing the airstream to present itself with a higher energy load than the part.