Definition
An incandescent lamp used as a source of radiant heat, typically employed in aircraft maintenance to warm a localized area such as a battery, engine component, or section of structure to bring it to a working temperature or to keep it from freezing in cold conditions.
Plain English
A special light bulb that gives off heat as well as light. Mechanics shine it on a part to warm it up.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft maintenance, especially when warming a small area, drying a surface, or helping a material cure under controlled conditions.
Why Pilots Care
In cold weather, batteries lose cranking power and oil becomes thick. A heat lamp directed at the battery box or oil sump before flight can make the difference between a successful start and a discharged battery or damaged engine.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a heat lamp as just a bright work light. In this context, its job is to put heat into the area it is aimed at.
Example Sentence 1
The mechanic placed a heat lamp near the battery overnight to keep it warm enough for a reliable morning start.
Example Sentence 2
After applying the resin patch, the mechanic used a heat lamp to cure the composite repair evenly.