At Stelter & Brinck, with over 100 years of expertise in the process heat industry, we design and manufacture custom high-efficiency, cost-effective direct fired air heaters that deliver hot air to a wide range of industrial applications. Our direct fired air heaters (often referred to as direct process air heaters) mix combustion gases directly with the process air stream for the best thermal efficiency. See the diagram below.
In this post, we explore how S&B direct fired air heaters serve key sectors and share authentic testimonials from customers who rely on our equipment every day. Below is an image of our Direct Fired Air Heater product lines.
Heat Treating, Curing & Metals Processing
Direct fired air heaters excel in heat treating, annealing, metal curing, and preheating applications. They provide the high temperatures (up to 2000°F+) and rapid heat delivery needed for efficient processing of metals, composites, and other materials. Gun style and packaged configurations are particularly popular here for their ability to handle high mass flows and demanding duty cycles.
Drying, Printing & Industrial Coating Processes
For drying, curing, and print drying operations, S&B direct fired heaters offer maximum fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. Duct style heaters integrate seamlessly into existing ductwork, while packaged units provide complete, ready-to-install solutions for paint, dye, mold processing, and printing lines.
Grain, Agricultural & Mineral Processing
Direct fired heaters are a strong choice for grain drying, fiber processing, mineral drying, and similar applications where combustion by-products are acceptable. Their high-volume airflow capabilities and robust construction support continuous operation in tough environments.
Chemical, Sludge & Specialty Manufacturing
In chemical manufacturing, sludge drying, and other industrial processes, our gun style and duct style heaters deliver reliable performance with options for gas, oil, or combination fuels. Low-emission designs help facilities meet regulatory requirements while maintaining high throughput.
Other Industrial Applications
S&B direct fired air heaters are also widely used in:
- Baking and food-related non-sensitive drying
- Oilfield and mining operations
- Ovens, kilns, and makeup air systems
- Any process prioritizing efficiency, high temperatures, and compact or integrated designs
Whether paired with dryers, ovens, duct systems, or standalone processes, our heaters deliver dependable high-efficiency heat across diverse industries.
What Our Customers Say
Here are real quotes from companies that have experienced the Stelter & Brinck difference with our combustion and process heating equipment:
“Anyone looking for the type of equipment S&B provides would be making a mistake to look anywhere else for their needs.” — Laminating Company
“Our S&B heater has worked exceptionally well and we have not had any plant downtime as a result of its performance!” — Garnet Abrasive & Powder Manufacturer
“From quote to start-up, every S&B employee involved bent over backwards to make sure the equipment was on-time and hassle free for our company!” — Milling Company
These testimonials reflect the reliability, efficiency gains, rugged performance, and responsive support that our customers consistently experience.
The Stelter & Brinck Advantage
Every S&B direct fired air heater is custom-engineered to your specific airflow, temperature rise, fuel type, emissions, and space requirements. Units are fully assembled or modular, thoroughly test-fired in our facility before shipment, and backed by expert field service and an inventory of combustion parts.
With more than a century of combustion experience, we don’t just supply equipment — we deliver products that maximize efficiency, minimize operating costs, and provide long-term reliability.
Ready to explore the right direct fired air heater solution for your industry? Contact us today at (513) 367-9300 or visit stelterbrinck.com/contact-us. Our engineers will review your process requirements and provide a tailored recommendation.
Have questions about which direct fired air heater configuration (Duct Style, Gun Style, or Packaged) best fits your application, or want to share your own experience? Comment below or reach out directly — we answer every inquiry personally.
