Infrared sauna
The infrared sauna differs from the traditional Finnish sauna as the heat is emitted by special panels.
Infrared sauna: who is recommended and why
Unlike the traditional sauna, which is heated by an electric stove that spreads the heat throughout the cabin, the infrared cabin uses radiations that allow heating in deep specific parts of the body. Because of that, this sauna is usually employed for relieving muscle pain rather than for relaxing the body. The plus advantage of a Stenal infra-red cabin is that the radiant panels are hidden behind the matchboards, so the cabin looks elegant and modern.Upon request, Stenal provides solutions for infrared saunas.
The IR infra-red rays (IR-A), raise body temperature "from the inside", while long-wave rays (IR-C) and / or medium wave rays (IR-B) only heat the surface layer of the skin.Though the sensation is different from the "heath bath" experienced in the Finnish sauna, there are some situations where the infrared sauna is more effective, just because it works deeply and is thus able to reduce deep muscle tensions.
Differences between infrared heating cabins and Finnish sauna
IR-heated cabin Traditional sauna Preparations 230V single phase connection Depending on the sauna size, up to 400V with three-phase connection Pre-heating From 0 to 20 minutes depending on the device From 20 to 60 minutes depending on the volume of the sauna How it works Infrared radiation penetrates deep into the skin, the surrounding air being heated only partially. The air is heated through a strong convective motion, so a widespread warmth heats the body. Temperature Ca. 30-50°C Ca. 70-110°C Staying Ca. 20-30 minutes, depending on the sauna session, maximum 60 minutes. Session of ca. 15 minutes each. Shower Depending on one's need, from lukewarm to cold Cold Effects with regular usage It deepens and relaxes the muscles, delivers lymph vessels and prepares for massage. Hot-cold alternation acts as a sort of "gymnastics" for veins and strengthens the immune system.
Construction differences between infrared heated cabins and Finnish sauna
The infrared sauna differs from the traditional Finnish sauna for some details: as the heating is not done by means of the stove but by special irradiation panels, these are hidden behind the cabin structure so that they do not remain visible and the sauna design results clean and elegant.IR-heated cabin Traditional sauna Type of woods Fir or Hemlock matchboards Fir, Hemlock, Ancient wood, Thermowood matchboards, Cedar horizontal strips Front wall Only in wood, to ensure the best distribution of the panels and heat. Wood or glass Benches Generally, only one level of benches. Since the heat does not rise upwards but spreads horizontally, it is not necessary to set up more levels. Two or more benches levels, depending on the size of the sauna. Because of the heat is more intense, it is mandatory to use an athermic wood for the benches. Maximun seats 2 - 3 seats 10 - 12 seats