What does an immersion element that has the sheath split apart and swollen indicate?

An immersion element that has the sheath split apart and swollen typically indicates that the unit ran dry or was "dry fired." When an immersion element is designed to heat water or another liquid, it relies on that liquid to facilitate heat transfer. If the liquid is absent or significantly reduced, the element can overheat, leading to a breakdown of the sheath material. This overheating can manifest as swelling or splitting, marking a failure in its structural integrity due to excessive temperature exposure without adequate cooling from the liquid it is intended to heat.

Understanding this condition is crucial for proper maintenance and operation of commercial food equipment, as it highlights the importance of ensuring that immersion heaters are always submerged in the appropriate medium during operation. This knowledge helps technicians diagnose issues quickly and implement corrective measures to prevent further damage or safety hazards in the equipment.