Watt Density

[smithmd4]

So I'm at Home Depot looking for the Camco 5500W ULWD element. What I find is that the same product # is a Rheem 5500W Medium Density element.

The product looks to be identical in every way (Volts, Amps, shape, length, etc). So what is the difference in being classified as medium density vs ultra low density?

 

[AnOldUR]

So what is the difference in being classified as medium density vs ultra low density?

HWD=150 watts/sq in
MWD=100 watts/sq in
LWD=75 watts/sq in
ULWD=50 watts/sq in

 

[Owly055]

More surface area per watt equals lower surface temps equals less wort scorching potential for a low watt density element. The same amount of energy dissipated into the wort, but less scorching.

H.W.

 

[smithmd4]

Got it, thanks.

So it turns out that it comes out to a decimal over 75w per sq. in when I measure it.

This is for Home Depot part # 420597.