There are different sources of infrared radiation. Currently, they are in household appliances, automation systems, security, and are also used for drying industrial products. Sources of infrared light with proper operation do not affect the human body, so the products are very popular.
Discovery story
For many centuries, outstanding minds have been studying the nature and action of light.
Infrared light was discovered at the beginning of the 19th century using the research of astronomer W. Herschel. Its essence was to study the heating abilities of various solar areas. A scientist brought a thermometer to them and monitored an increase in temperature. This process was observed when the device touched the red border. V. Herschel concluded that there is some kind of radiation that cannot be seen visually, but it is possible to determine with a thermometer.
Infrared rays: application
They are widespread in human life and have found their application in various fields:
- Warfare. Modern missiles and warheads that can independently target the target are equipped with night vision devices, which are the result of the use of infrared radiation.
- Thermography Infrared radiation is used to study overheated or supercooled areas. Infrared images are also used in astronomy to detect celestial bodies.
- Gen. Infrared heaters have become very popular, the functioning of which is aimed at heating interior items and walls. Then they give off heat to the space.
- Remote control. All existing remotes for TV, stoves, air conditioners, etc. equipped with infrared rays.
- In medicine, infrared rays treat and prevent various diseases.
Consider where these elements apply.
Infrared gas burners
An infrared burner is used to heat various rooms.
At first it was used for greenhouses, garages (that is, non-residential premises). However, modern technology has allowed its use even in apartments. People call such a burner a sun device, since when turned on, the working surface of the equipment resembles sunlight. Over time, such devices have replaced oil heaters and convectors.
Key Features
The infrared burner differs from other devices in the way it is heated. The transfer of heat is carried out due to the emission of infrared rays, which are not noticeable to humans. This feature allows heat to penetrate not only into the air, but also onto interior items, which later also increase the temperature in the room. The infrared emitter does not dry the air, because the rays are primarily aimed at interior items and walls. In the future, the transfer of heat will be carried out from walls or objects directly to the space of the room, and the process takes several minutes.
Positive sides
The main advantage of such devices is the quick and easy heating of the room. For example, to warm a cold room to a temperature of + 24º, it will take 20 minutes. In the process, there is no movement of air, which contributes to the formation of dust and large contaminants. Therefore, an infrared emitter is installed in the premises of those people who are allergic.
In addition, infrared rays falling on the surface with dust do not cause its burning, and, as a result, there is no smell of burnt dust. The quality of heating and the durability of the device depends on the heating element. Such devices use a ceramic type.
Cost
The price of such devices is rather low and affordable for all segments of the population. For example, a gas burner costs from 800 rubles. A whole stove can be purchased for 4000 rubles.
Sauna
What is an infrared cabin? This is a special room, which is built from natural varieties of wood (such as cedar). The infrared emitters acting on the tree are installed in it.
During heating phytoncides are released - useful components that prevent the development or appearance of fungi and bacteria.
Such an infrared cabin is popularly called a sauna. Indoors, the air temperature reaches 45 ° C, so being in it is quite comfortable. This temperature allows you to warm the human body evenly and deeply. Therefore, heat does not affect the cardiovascular system. During the procedure, accumulated toxins and wastes are removed, the metabolism in the body is accelerated (due to the rapid movement of blood), and tissues are enriched with oxygen. However, sweat is not the main property of an infrared sauna. It is aimed at improving well-being.
The effect of infrared saunas on humans
Such premises have a beneficial effect on the human body. During the procedure, all muscles, tissues and bones are warmed up. The acceleration of blood circulation affects the metabolism, which helps to saturate the muscles and tissues with oxygen. In addition, an infrared cabin is visited to prevent various diseases. Most people leave only positive reviews.
The negative effects of infrared radiation
Sources of infrared radiation can cause not only a positive effect on the body, but also harm it.
With prolonged exposure to rays, capillaries expand, which leads to redness or burns. Infrared radiation sources are especially harmful to the organs of vision - this is the formation of cataracts. In some cases, a person develops cramps.
Short rays affect the human body, causing heat stroke. With an increase in brain temperature by several degrees, a deterioration is observed: darkening in the eyes, dizziness, nausea. A further increase in temperature can lead to the formation of meningitis.
Deterioration or improvement occurs due to the intensity of the electromagnetic field. It is characterized by temperature and the distance to the source of thermal energy radiation.
Long waves of infrared radiation play a special role in various processes of life. Short ones affect the human body more.
How to prevent the harmful effects of infrared rays?
As mentioned earlier, short thermal radiation has a negative effect on the human body. Consider examples in which infrared radiation is dangerous.
To date, infrared heaters that emit temperatures above 100 ° C can be harmful to health. Among them are the following:
- Industrial equipment that emits radiant energy. To prevent negative effects, protective clothing and heat-shielding elements should be used, as well as preventive measures among working personnel.
- Infrared device. The most famous heater is the oven. However, she has long gone out of use. Increasingly, in apartments, country houses and cottages began to use electric infrared heaters. In its design, a heating element (in the form of a spiral) is provided, which is protected by a special heat-insulating material. Such exposure to rays does not harm the human body. The air in the heated area does not dry. You can heat the room in 30 minutes. First, infrared radiation heats objects, and already they and the whole apartment.
Infrared radiation is widely used in various fields, ranging from industrial to medical.
However, they should be handled with care, as the rays can have a negative effect on the person. It all depends on the wavelength and distance to the heater.
So, we found out what sources of infrared radiation exist.