Collection: Infrared Lamps

Infrared lamps provide a fast, efficient and reliable source of radiant heat for a wide range of industrial, commercial and specialist applications. Designed to deliver controlled infrared energy directly to the target area, these lamps heat objects and surfaces without needing to warm the surrounding air. This makes infrared lamps an ideal choice for processes that require rapid heat-up times, focused heat distribution and high energy efficiency. Our range includes a selection of infrared heat lamps, all engineered for long life, stable performance and consistent heat output.

At Under Control Instruments, we supply quality infrared heating lamps suitable for OEMs, maintenance teams, production facilities and commercial environments across the UK. Whether you're replacing a lamp in an existing system or upgrading your heating setup, our IR lamps are available in a variety of wattages, lengths, fittings and wavelengths to match your specific process requirements. With short-tail, transactional searches in mind, this category ensures you can quickly find the right infrared lamp for drying, curing, heating, food-service equipment and many other applications.

Skip to product grid

86 products

Key Features & Benefits

  • Fast Heat Response – IR lamps reach operating temperature rapidly, delivering almost instant heat.
  • High Energy Efficiency – Infrared radiation heats surfaces directly, minimising wasted energy in the surrounding air.
  • Focused, Uniform Heat – Ideal for targeted processes, ensuring even heating and reduced hot spots.
  • Long Operating Life – Many lamps offer extended lifespan due to robust construction and high-quality quartz envelopes.
  • Versatile Mounting & Fittings – Available in various lengths, caps and power ratings to suit a wide range of equipment.
  • Suitable for High-Temperature Applications – Infrared heaters can operate at elevated temperatures without losing efficiency.
  • Low Maintenance – Minimal moving parts or mechanical wear make IR lamps reliable and cost-effective over time.

How Infrared Lamps Work

Infrared lamps generate heat through a filament enclosed
within a quartz tube. When electrical current passes through the filament, it produces infrared radiation—an efficient form of heat energy that warms surfaces, objects and materials directly. Depending on the lamp type, this infrared output may fall within short-wave, medium-wave or long-wave bands, each offering different heat penetration and response characteristics. Short-wave lamps deliver extremely fast, intense heating, while medium and long-wave lamps provide smoother, more controlled heat for delicate or gradual heating processes.

The heat produced is transferred through radiation rather
than convection, meaning the heat does not rely on warming the air first. This makes infrared heat lamps particularly effective in industrial processes such as drying coatings, curing adhesives, shrink-wrapping and preheating materials.

Ideal Uses / Applications

Infrared lamps are ideal for:

  • Industrial drying and curing – coatings, paints, adhesives and inks.
  • Manufacturing processes – plastics forming, thermoforming and preheating components.
  • Food-service equipment – keeping food warm in catering environments.
  • Commercial heating – spot heating for workshops, warehouses or workstations.
  • Print and packaging industries – drying inks and improving production efficiency.
  • Medical & therapy devices – controlled infrared heating for therapeutic applications (depending on lamp specification).
  • Shrink-wrapping and packaging systems – rapid, even heat delivery for consistent results.

Important Considerations & Safety Notes

  • Correct Wavelength Selection – Choose short-, medium- or long-wave output based on your heating requirement to avoid overheating or inefficiency.
  • Ensure Proper Fixture Compatibility – Lamps must be matched with the correct fitting, size, voltage and wattage to avoid equipment damage.
  • Avoid Direct Skin and Eye Exposure – Infrared radiation can cause burns or irritation with prolonged, close exposure—use shielding where required.
  • Maintain Adequate Ventilation – Some high-power lamps generate significant heat around fixtures.
  • Allow Lamps to Cool Before Handling – Quartz tubes reach high temperatures and can shatter if handled while hot.
  • Avoid Touching the Quartz Tube – Oils and residue from fingers can create hotspots and shorten lamp life.
  • Check Electrical Ratings – Ensure the supply matches the lamp’s voltage and power rating for safe operation.

Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Well packed and arrived on time.
Order arrived on time and well packed. Product correct as ordered."

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Heating Bulbs.
Excellent purchase. Thanks."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


What is an infrared lamp used for?

Infrared lamps are used for heating, drying, curing, preheating and warming applications across industrial, commercial and food-service environments. They provide fast, direct heat where precise temperature control is required.

What is the difference between an infrared lamp and a standard heat lamp?

A standard heat lamp may simply emit broad-spectrum heat, while an infrared heat lamp specifically emits targeted infrared radiation for more efficient, direct heating. IR lamps also heat objects rather than air, making them more energy-efficient.

How long do infrared heating lamps last?

Lifespan depends on wattage, lamp type and usage conditions, but many high-quality IR lamps last thousands of hours. Proper handling, correct installation and avoiding contact with the quartz surface will extend service life.

Can infrared lamps be used for industrial processes?

Yes. Infrared lamps are widely used in manufacturing for drying coatings, curing adhesives, thermoforming plastics, shrink-wrapping and other production-line heating tasks.

Are infrared lamps safe to use?

Yes, when used correctly. It’s important to follow electrical ratings, avoid direct skin or eye contact with high-intensity lamps, and ensure installed fixtures have appropriate shielding and ventilation. Always allow lamps to cool before handling.

Ready to solve your unique heating challenges? 

Explore our range of infrared lamps, or contact us for a custom heating solution tailored to your exact needs!