Engineered Gas Infrared Radiant Tube Heaters

Gas infrared radiant tube heaters burn natural gas or propane to heat an emitter tube, which radiates energy toward floors, equipment, inventory, and people. Instead of heating the full air volume first, radiant energy warms occupied surfaces directly. This is especially effective in high-bay or door-cycling buildings where warm air from forced-air systems rises or escapes quickly.

They are commonly specified for warehouses, aircraft hangars, manufacturing plants, auto dealership service bays, CNG repair facilities, ice arenas, natatoriums, military vehicle bays, agricultural buildings, and commercial garages. These facilities often have high ceilings, large doors, ventilation loads, or corrosive conditions where conventional forced-air heating struggles to maintain comfort efficiently.

Combustion Research Corporation documents typical energy savings of 30-50% compared with conventional forced-air systems in comparable commercial applications. Savings come from heating occupied surfaces rather than unused ceiling air, reducing recovery time after door cycles, and allowing zone or spot heating where workers actually need comfort.

Sizing depends on square footage, ceiling height, insulation level, building use, door-cycle frequency, fuel type, and desired zone coverage. Warehouses often use 25-65+ BTU per square foot depending on height and envelope conditions. CRC provides calculators, specifications, and engineering support to help facility managers and mechanical contractors select the correct system.

Reflect-O-Ray is CRC’s custom-engineered vacuum radiant tube system, typically selected for larger or more complex facilities requiring optimized coverage and efficiency. Omega II is a unitary power-vented system suited for straightforward commercial and industrial zones. Serengeti-IR is a compact 40K-60K BTU power-vented tube heater for smaller commercial, agricultural, and single-bay applications.

Most CRC gas infrared radiant tube systems are available for natural gas or propane, with select Reflect-O-Ray OIL EDS configurations available for off-grid or rural commercial facilities. Fuel selection affects operating cost, installation requirements, utility availability, and system configuration, so it should be reviewed during the specification and quoting process.

Required clearances vary by model, configuration, mounting angle, and application. Reflect-O-Ray and Omega II clearances can range widely, so installers should use the product submittal sheets and coordinate with the authority having jurisdiction. Proper mounting height, venting, gas piping, electrical drops, and combustible clearances are essential for safe installation.

CRC radiant tube systems are quoted by facility square footage, ceiling height, BTU sizing, fuel type, construction material, venting approach, and project complexity. Pricing is available through the North American representative network or by calling 888-852-3611. Manufacturer warranties include a 10-year radiant tube warranty and a 3-year burner control warranty on applicable systems.