Sähköresistanssilämmityksen

Sähköresistanssilämmitys, known in English as electric resistance heating, is a process where electrical energy is converted into thermal energy through the passage of an electric current through a resistive material. This phenomenon is governed by Joule's law, which states that the heat generated is proportional to the square of the current, the resistance of the material, and the time for which the current flows. Materials with high electrical resistance are typically used to maximize the heat output for a given current. Common resistive materials include nichrome (an alloy of nickel and chromium), tungsten, and certain ceramics.

This heating method is widely employed in various applications. Domestic uses include electric heaters, toasters, electric stoves, and electric water heaters. In industrial settings, resistance heating is used for processes like annealing, tempering, drying, and melting metals. The simplicity, controllability, and relatively low initial cost make it an attractive heating solution. The efficiency of resistance heating is very high, as nearly all electrical energy is converted into heat within the resistive element. However, the operational cost can be higher compared to other heating methods if electricity prices are elevated, due to the direct consumption of electrical energy. Control of the temperature is often achieved by regulating the current supplied to the resistive element or by using thermostats.