There are various types of pipe heat tracing. Electric, self-regulating, constant wattage, and steam heat tracing are common methods. The most effective heat trace method depends on how it is installed and used. The following are some tips for choosing a pipe heat trace that will best meet your needs. A properly installed pipe heat trace will maximize the output of the tracing device. The installation should be performed carefully to ensure its long life and effectiveness.
Electric heat tracing
When it comes to locating hot spots in pipelines, electric heat tracing has several advantages. This technology allows you to accurately calculate the amount of heat loss from the pipe while also reducing electrical resistance. Electric heat tracing is usually done with many cables. These cables can be cut to length in the field. One advantage of this method is that it can be programmed to adjust power output based on changes in temperature.
A standard electric heat tracing system will consist of three components: design, control, and cable. Depending on the project requirements, the electrical heat tracing system will be customized to meet your needs. When defining your project, make sure to identify the pipe temperature and insulation requirements. By doing this, you will be able to select the specific functions you need and avoid specifying features you will never use. It is also important to keep your heat tracing project simple to minimize costs.
Electric heat tracing of pipe heat is an excellent way to compensate for any heat losses and ensure that the pipe remains at a specified temperature. It can be installed on the pipes continuously or only at vulnerable points. In cold countries, it can even melt ice from roofs, thus preventing damage to the pipes. Modern electric heat tracing products are usually self-regulating and can be used as a freeze protection system.
The electrical system of a heat trace system uses a resistive element to raise the temperature of a pipe or vessel. The resistive element heats up when electricity passes through it. Electric heat tracing uses a self-regulating polymer to control the wattage of the element. In addition to being self-regulating, the polymer creates conductive pathways when the ambient temperature drops. When this happens, it allows the current to flow.
Self-regulating heat tracing
A self-regulating pipe heat trace automatically regulates its output according to the changes in temperature. The process starts on a microscopic level. This heat trace is made of carbon polymer that responds to changes in temperature by contracting or expanding. When the temperature changes, the number of electrical paths increases or decreases, reducing the power output. This heating cable reflects these changes in temperature back to the user by adjusting its resistance.
The Chromalox self-regulating pipe heat trace cable offers maximum flexibility in heat trace design. It can be cut to length in the field and single overlapped without fear of burnout. Available in two voltage ranges (120V and 208 to 277V), it maintains temperatures up to 302 deg F. Whether used in a single or multiple-pipe system, Chromalox self-regulating pipe heat trace cables are certified for harsh corrosive environments and withstand a wide range of temperatures.
Another option is Jiahong’s Self-Regulating Pipe Heat Trace Cable, which provides temperature regulation for its cable. This cable can be installed in a number of locations, including perimeter walls and poorly insulated areas. Unlike its constant-wattage counterpart, the self-regulating cable increases as the temperature decreases. Unlike other heat-trace cables, Jiahong’s Self-Regulating Pipe Heat Trace Cable is compatible with both 110-120 and 277-Vac voltages.
The nVent RAYCHEM self-regulating pipe heat trace cable features two parallel conductors embedded in an insulated polymer core. This core is radiation-crosslinked to ensure durability. Electric current passing through the core of the cable generates heat. As a result, the heat trace cable’s output decreases as the ambient temperature increases. The self-regulating pipe heat trace cable technology is available in a wide range of products for industrial and construction-based applications.
SRP Series 240V Pre-Assembled Self-Regulating Pipe Trace Heating Cable is designed for use in many types of pipe freeze protection applications. It is pre-assembled, with a 30 inch long grounded 120-volt plug and end splice. The heat trace cable is compatible with both metallic and non-metallic pipes. In addition, it is fire-resistant and UV resistant.
Constant wattage heat tracing
Heating requirements in power plants are often the same year round as they are in the rest of the country, and the best way to keep the facility comfortable is by using heat tracing cables. These cables are a type of electrical wiring that is installed along pipe systems and other equipment to maintain the proper operating temperature and prevent freezing. Constant wattage heat tracing cables use a self-regulating heating element, which means that it automatically decreases its output as pipe temperatures rise. This results in greatly increased energy efficiency.
The power output of heat tracing cables is measured in watts per linear foot. They are typically available in a 120-volt range and can output anywhere from three to twenty watts per linear foot. The constant-wattage heat-tracing cables require a plug-in electrical connection, which makes them easier to install. Constant-wattage heat tracing cables are often used for pipe tracing, where an increase in temperature can lead to costly repairs.
The simplest type of heat tracing is the series circuit system. This type of cable uses high-resistance wire that is connected to each other with a special connection. The wire is also often protected by a protective jacket and is powered at a specific voltage, which determines the heat output. This type of heat-tracing cable is the highest rated and most rugged one. Its stainless steel outer sheath makes it suitable for hazardous and non-hazardous areas alike.
Constant-wattage heat tracing is often used in piping projects and commercial facilities. It is commonly used in piping systems to control the velocity of heavy materials such as wax. Another use is freeze protection. Constant-wattage cable also comes with many other benefits, such as self-regulating and overlapping cables. In addition to ensuring proper installation and performance, constant-wattage heat tracing is easy to install.
A constant-wattage heating cable is similar to an electrical extension cord, only it is specifically designed to produce heat rather than draw electricity. Constant-wattage cables can be cut to length in the field and are rated for 120-480V. This cable is especially useful in applications where higher temperature is required. The benefits of constant-wattage heating cable are obvious. However, the difference between the two is in their usage.
Steam tracing
One of the applications of steam tracing pipe heat is to maintain the desired temperature in a process. In some cases, this can be a difficult task due to pipe temperatures exceeding the ambient temperature. The insulating properties of the pipe aren’t enough to prevent heat loss. In such a situation, electric heating can be used to raise the system’s temperature to the desired level. Steam tracing can also be used to maintain the desired temperature, but this method is not practical in many environments and may not be cost-effective.
The use of steam tracing has many benefits. First, it is considerably more energy efficient than electrical tracing. The high usable heat content of steam presents many advantages over thermal fluids. Second, steam tracing has the additional advantage of being far more effective than electrical tracing. Therefore, it can help plant owners reduce their energy bills and achieve energy efficiency goals. In some cases, it can even be used to improve the overall quality of product quality.
Another benefit of steam tracing is that it can work in high-temperature environments. Unlike electrical tracing, steam tracing is a safe, efficient method for heating process lines. The main advantage of using steam is that it doesn’t generate electrical sparks. Moreover, you can use your facility’s existing steam supply. However, you should know that a steam tracing system is expensive, because of the winterization process and the unregulated steam used.
A steam tracing system uses a small-diameter pipe along with a large one. The heat is transferred through the conductive compound between the two pipes. These pipes are then wrapped in jacketing or insulation, so they don’t get exposed to external elements. In addition to the ability to increase temperature, steam tracing systems can also be used to control viscosity and ensure a uniform temperature throughout the system.
The traditional method of steam tracing relied on a screwed coupling to prevent leaks. It was difficult to install and requires the use of spacer blocks. The spacer blocks also didn’t stay in place during the assembly process and could slip out of position due to the expansion and contraction of the tracer tube. It also required expensive installation, which made it unsuitable for many applications. Thermon has been helping heat tracing customers achieve a higher degree of heat transfer from the tubes since its introduction 40 years ago.