This infrared light source is a thermal emitter with an emissivity of ~80%. It is appropriate for use in laboratory or field instrumentation due to its long life and stable properties.
The coiled filament operates at ~800°C when powered with 4 watts for the IR-21 and 4 watts for the IR-22. The radiating element is a coiled resistance wire which has a high emissivity in the infrared spectral region. The coil is supported on a cylindrical substrate of alumina. Due to the reduced mass of this unit it can be pulsed at up to 1 hertz with a resultant temperature variation that can be detected though the depth of modulation is small. For better pulsed infrared light source operation please see the IR-40 and IR-50 sources. The unit does not require operation in a sealed atmosphere.
The IR-21, has an 8.6 mm diameter base. The support pins, which are also the power leads, are hermetically sealed in glass.
The IR-21 Series is offered in two configurations: the IR-21 has the element mounted horizontally and the IR-21V has the element mounted vertically.