In a coal-fired power plant in Arizona, the Valin Corporation formulated a system that maintains the temperature of the fluid in pipes to prevent freezing. Because freezing can cause pipes to burst or become clogged, proper pipe heat trace is critical to the smooth functioning of instrumentation on pipes. Instrumentation failure can lead to costly shutdowns, safety problems, and facility downtime. The location of the temperature sensor in the system is very important, as well.
Problems with a pipe heat trace system
If you are unsure why your pipe heat tracing system is not working, you should begin by checking the voltage at the breaker panel. If the voltage is correct, the heat trace output should work properly. If it is not, you should check the power termination kit for signs of shorting or damage. If there is no short, try to check the wiring for loose connections. If you suspect that a faulty thermostat is the problem, you should replace the device or check for a new wiring installation. If all else fails, you should try a megger check to determine if the circuit is properly connected. If this does not work, the next best option is to reduce the overall length of the heat trace circuit.
Inspecting the pipe heat trace system can also reveal problems. Oftentimes, problems start with pumps and valves. They can be the source of poor insulation. This insulation often cannot stand on its own, so it can collapse when you walk on it. Another potential cause of a failing pipe heat trace is a truck backing into piping racks. Heat tracing professionals should always check for cracked or frozen surfaces to ensure that the heat trace system is working correctly.
If the piping is not properly insulated, it can fail to protect the pipe against freezing. In such a situation, the heat tracing system will not work properly, causing a process to fail and a potential health hazard. Furthermore, the jacketing may be removed without properly reinstalling it. When this happens, the temperature of the pipe will increase and decrease, which can cause freezing.
Despite these common problems, heat tracing is a vital part of cold water main protection. It will help keep the pipe fluid temperature from freezing, and it will prevent ice and snow from forming. Thorne & Derrick can help new construction projects as well as DIY enthusiasts with cold water main protection. With one of the largest UK inventories of frost protection equipment, Thorne & Derrick understands the importance of cold water main protection.
Cost of a pipe heat trace system
If you use pipe heat tracing for your liquid transportation process, you have probably noticed how expensive it can be. Inefficient heating can cause damage to products and slow production, and can waste time and money. The system is designed to prevent damage by regulating temperature and viscosity in your pipes. This article will explain what a pipe heat trace is and how it works, and discuss best practices for designing a freeze protection system.
Typical pipe heat trace systems start with a power source, and then run heat-tracing cables along the surface of the pipe. These cables are held in place by high-temperature 8tape and then covered with an insulation jacket. The cable is then controlled by a simple thermostat or a temperature sensor that sends feedback to a common PID or PLC style controller. Several heat-trace systems include monitors to measure temperature and adjust the system to ensure optimal pipe temperatures.
Another option is heat-tracing cable, also known as heat tape for pipes. The cable is used in a variety of applications. XtremeFLEX heating tapes are more flexible and self-regulating than common pipe heat-tracing cable. Constant-wattage heating cable provides accurate temperatures up to 500oF. Self-regulating heat trace cables can overlap and adjust to changes in temperature. They can be installed safely.
Pipe heat-tracing cables can be self-regulating, preventing the pipe from breaking under pressure. Warmzone carries several premier self-regulating pipe heat-tracing cables, providing both commercial and industrial pipe tracing solutions. They are made of advanced technology and are highly effective in operation. With their self-regulating feature, they provide safe, reliable heat tracing while maintaining process temperature. This type of cable is perfect for small plastic pipes and instrument tubing.
Another benefit of a thermal-protected pipe is that it does not create thermal drag and keeps products at consistent temperatures. Consequently, you can reduce the cost of heating tanks by using thermal-protected pipes. It also prevents leaks from occurring and keeps product at a consistent temperature. Further, it will eliminate costly winterization. For the best results, choose a thermal-protected pipe. And remember, the cost of pipe heat trace systems is high, so make sure you get an accurate quote from a supplier before deciding which system to use.
Types of cable used for a pipe heat trace system
There are several types of cables available for a pipe heat trace system. Several features are important to consider when choosing a cable for a pipe heat trace system. These factors include the environment, water content, and the type of fluid it will be exposed to. Depending on the system, these features can affect the cable’s function. Temperature limits should be established before deciding on the length or wattage of the cable.
Liquids can thicken and become solid at lower temperatures. This phenomenon, known as phase change, is a problem in the process industry. They can also freeze when cold weather hits and restrict the flow within their pipes. Pipe heat trace systems help keep liquids in the proper temperature range. These systems are one of the best ways to regulate temperatures in process pipes. For this reason, heat tracing cable is essential.
A pipe heat trace system may contain several types of cables. Some are self-regulating and are protected by a polyolefin outer jacket. Some systems feature a fluoropolymer outer jacket for extra environmental protection. Electric heat tracing (also known as heat tape or surface heating) uses an electrical heating element that runs in physical contact along the length of a pipe. To prevent excessive heat loss, pipe insulation should be used. In addition, electrical equipment is subject to T-rating codes, which define its maximum surface temperature.
When choosing a pipe heat trace system, it is crucial to know the types of cables available for your project. There are three basic types of cable. The first is a self-regulating type that can be installed on plastic piping overwrapped with aluminum tape. In this case, the maintenance temperature of the pipe is assumed to be at a constant 100degF, and overall heat loss is calculated to be 4 W/ft.
In some cases, a continuous or a variable wattage cable may be used to cover a pipe. In such a case, the cable must be able to meet the maximum operating temperature and supply voltage requirements. The cable length should be equal to the length of the pipe run, including the length of any inline components. Typical length allowances for piping components are listed in table 5.
Installation of a pipe heat trace system
Proper installation of a pipe heat trace system involves carefully planning, measuring, and estimating the amount of pipe insulation needed to prevent freezing. The heat trace cable should be laid out along the pipe at a 45 degree angle, with one cable placed at the four o’clock position and an additional one at the eight o’clock position. During installation, be sure to account for all flanges, valves, and supports. It should be cut to the correct length and attached to the pipe. Plastic pipes may require aluminum tape to improve heat distribution.
The installation of a pipe heat trace system is a safe, reliable way to control temperatures in process pipes. The cables are custom-made to keep liquids in the pipes at the optimal temperature. As long as the temperature is maintained, the system prevents freezing and thickening, which is harmful to processes in the process industry. It also protects pipes from excessive damage caused by overheating and restricts the flow of liquids inside the pipes.
Pipe heat tracing requires careful consideration, as it protects the pipe from freezing and maintains process temperatures. However, improper installation of pipe heat trace systems can result in abnormal outcomes. A poorly installed pipe heat trace system can cause catastrophic pipe failure, resulting in unplanned downtime, increased maintenance costs, and emergency repairs. As such, heat tracing installation is a complex process that should be left to an expert.
Pipe heat tracing systems can be installed using single or three-phase power supplies. The power supply for the pipe heat trace system is controlled by a solid-state controller or a contactor. The power supply should provide an adequate warm-up current for the system. It should be at least 500 watts to prevent freezing. Depending on the installation requirements, a single phase 600V system may be the best option. If the pipe is pre-insulated, a three-phase system may be better for the job. The heat tracing system may also require earth leakage devices.
Before installing the pipe heat trace system, be sure to choose the right type of cable and tinned copper overbraid. You should be able to determine the voltage of the cable by using a megger. The positive and negative leads of the megger should be connected to the cable’s bus wires. Once the cable is installed on the pipe, make sure to connect it to the proper termination points.