Beatrice Lang
Electric blankets are a popular way to keep warm, especially in the cold winter months. They are bed coverings with built-in heating elements that allow the sleeper to maintain their desired temperature. The heating element is a special kind of wire, which acts as its own thermostat. The core of the wire is made of glass fiber or polyester wire, with a flexible electrical heating alloy wire wrapped around it. The market offers a variety of electric blankets with different features and materials, such as polyester, velvet, fleece, and flannel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Heating element | Carbon fiber, electrical heating alloy wire, copper alloy signal wire |
| Heating wire coating | Heat-resistant resin |
| Fabric | Polyester, velvet, micro-fleece, flannel, fleece, microlight plush, faux shearling, synthetic fiber |
| Texture | Quilted, fuzzy, soft, shiny, plush, velvety, thick, lightweight, smooth, fuzzy |
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Electric blanket shell
The shell of an electric blanket is structured as a series of 20-30 long hollow tubes or channels, woven as one piece of cloth. The tubes are lined head to foot and are formed as a double layer, with a single layer of fabric in between the channels. The shell is then tested for foreign materials and thickness.
Electric blankets are made from a variety of materials, including polyester, velvet, fleece, flannel, and wool. Polyester is a very common fabric for electric blankets because it is soft, fire-resistant, and cost-effective. It is also machine-washable, although the power cord should be detached before washing. Polyester fabrics have come a long way since the 1970s, and today's polyester is soft and cosy.
Some modern electric blankets use carbon fibre elements, which are less bulky and conspicuous than older heating wires. The core of the wire is made of glass fibre or polyester wire, with a flexible electrical heating alloy wire wrapped around it. The outside is then covered with a heat-sensitive layer, followed by a copper alloy signal wire.
Other fabrics used for electric blankets include velvet-like polyester, which can sometimes feel cheap and shiny, and microlight plush, a lightweight, soft, and synthetic fabric. Flannel fabric is also used, providing great insulation for heating wires, as well as a soft and luxurious feel.
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Heating elements
Electric blankets are bed coverings with built-in heating elements that allow users to maintain their desired temperature in cold rooms. The heating element is a special kind of wire that acts as its own thermostat. The wire is made of a flexible electrical heating alloy, which is wrapped around a core made of glass fibre or polyester wire. The alloy wire is then covered with a heat-sensitive layer, which changes from an insulator to a conductor when the temperature exceeds a certain value, turning the control circuit on and off.
The heating element wire is formed through a specific process. First, an alloy is formed into rods, cleaned, and pulled through a wire-drawing machine. The plastic insulating jacketing is then formed through an extrusion process. The finished wire is delivered in large spools to the assembly plant, where it is inserted into the blanket shell.
Each element of the blanket, including the heating element, undergoes separate testing. The heating element is tested by its manufacturer as it is being made to ensure that each inch of the wire is examined before reaching the assembly factory. It is tested for short circuits, foreign materials, and proper power dissipation.
Some modern electric blankets use carbon fibre elements, which are less bulky and conspicuous than older heating wires. Carbon fibre is also used in many high-end heated car seats.
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Temperature control
Electric blankets contain a built-in heating element, allowing users to maintain a desired temperature. Modern electric blankets feature sophisticated temperature controls that can sense changes in skin and air temperature and adjust settings accordingly. These temperature controls are subjected to their own tests by their manufacturers.
Some electric blankets use carbon fibre elements, which are less bulky and conspicuous than older heating wires. Carbon fibre is also used in many high-end heated car seats. The core of the wire is made of glass fibre or polyester wire, with flexible electrical heating alloy wire wrapped around it. The outside of the wire is covered with a heat-sensitive layer, which changes from an insulator to a good conductor when the temperature exceeds a predetermined value, turning on the control circuit and disconnecting the electric blanket.
Electric blankets usually have a control unit that adjusts the amount of heat produced by pulsing current at different intervals. Blankets for two-person beds often have separate controls for each side of the bed. The most advanced model blankets are programmable, allowing them to pre-warm the bed at a certain time and shut off at a certain hour. They can also adjust the temperature for the needs of two people in the same bed and can even compensate for the different heat needs of different parts of the body, sending more heat to the sleeper's feet while leaving the head area cooler.
The Beautyrest Heated Electric Blanket is made of a fabric called "microlight plush", which has an ultra-soft feel. It features 20 heat settings, allowing users to tailor the warmth to their exact preference. It also has an adjustable 10-hour automatic shut-off feature for safety. The Soft Heat Micro-Fleece Electric Blanket is another comfortable option, with fine wires that are undetectable and a fuzzy outer material.
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Power cord
The power cord of an electric blanket is an important component that requires rigorous testing before the product is deemed safe for use. The power cord is responsible for delivering electricity to the blanket, allowing it to generate heat.
Electric blankets have a built-in heating element, which is typically a special kind of wire that acts as its own thermostat. This wire is made of a flexible electrical heating alloy, with a core of glass fibre or polyester wire. To ensure safety, the wire is coated with a heat-resistant resin.
Before an electric blanket leaves the factory, it undergoes a series of tests to ensure its safety and functionality. One critical test is the inspection of the power cord. The manufacturer of the power cord conducts its own tests to ensure that it meets the required specifications. These tests include checking for short circuits, foreign materials, and proper power dissipation.
In addition to the manufacturer's tests, the electric blanket as a whole is tested. During this stage, the power cord is plugged into an electrical outlet, and the blanket is turned on to its full-rated power. An inspector closely observes the blanket's performance, including the behaviour of the power cord, to identify any obvious flaws or inconsistencies in temperature.
Given the critical role of the power cord in the safe operation of electric blankets, it is important to use only manufacturer-approved replacement cords in case of any damage or malfunction. Replacement power cords for electric blankets are readily available from various manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring that consumers can maintain the functionality and safety of their electric blankets.
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Fabric
Electric blankets are made from a variety of fabrics, each with its own unique features and benefits. Polyester is a common choice for electric blankets due to its versatility, softness, and cost-effectiveness. It is machine-washable and has come a long way since the 1970s, with improved cosiness and reduced static. For those seeking a more luxurious option, diamond-quilted flannel fabric provides superior insulation for heating wires, along with a soft and thick texture.
Another fabric to consider is "microlight plush", a synthetic fabric known for its ultra-soft and lightweight feel. This fabric is used in the Beautyrest Heated Electric Blanket, which offers 20 heat settings and an adjustable automatic shut-off feature. The wires in this blanket are barely noticeable, and it performs well in the washing machine.
If you're looking for a plush and cozy option, the Sunbeam Velvet Plush Heated Blanket is a good choice. It is made of a velour-like material and is one of the most comfortable blankets available. However, its smooth and slippery finish may not be to everyone's taste.
For a lightweight and warm option, fleece fabric, made from polyester or synthetic fibres, is a popular choice. It is inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to find. While it may not breathe as well as other fabrics, it is machine washable and easy to care for.
Lastly, for those with allergies or sensitive skin, cotton fabric is a great option. Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, soft, and easy to clean. It is one of the most commonly used blanket materials and is perfect for those seeking a comfortable and safe option.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric blankets are made of a variety of materials, including polyester, velvet, fleece, flannel, and carbon fiber. The heating element is a special kind of wire, often made of a flexible electrical heating alloy.
Polyester is the most common fabric used for electric blankets due to its versatility, softness, and cost-effectiveness.
The best material for an electric blanket depends on your preferences. Diamond-quilted fabric is more expensive but provides great insulation and a luxurious feel. Polyester is a popular choice due to its softness, durability, and affordability. Microlight plush is another option, offering a lightweight and ultra-soft feel.
