What is a Heat Trace System?
Heat trace systems are a series of electrical cables that generate heat when electrical current passes through it. The heat generated by these systems is transferred to the surrounding pipes, equipment, or concrete to maintain a specific temperature.
What Components Make-Up the System?
Components that make up a heat trace include:
- Heat Trace Cable varies between self-regulating, constant wattage, or mineral insulated cable.
- Self-Regulating cable adjusts its heat output based on temperature changes.
- Constant Wattage cable provides a fixed heat output.
- Mineral Insulated cable generally provides a constant heat output of extreme temp
- Power Connection Kits connect the heat trace cables to the power supply and ensure a safe connection.
- End Seals protect the ends of the heat race cables from moisture and environmental damage.
- Splice Kits are used to connect multiple lengths of heat trace cable, ensuring continuity and reliability.
- Control Options include thermostats, heat trace controllers, RTDs (resistant temperature devices), and panels.
- Insulation is applied over the heat trace to improve efficiency by retaining the generated heat and protecting the cables from damage.
How do Heat Trace Systems Work?
Heat trace systems generally work by using the same steps. The first step in all heat trace systems is by drawing their power supply from an electrical panel. However, the second step is where some deviation occurs. Generally, the power supply flows into a heat trace controller or thermostat for regulation, however some heat trace systems are controlled manually from the panel by turning on and off the breaker.
The third step for a controller-oriented system is that the controller will turn the system on/off based upon the prerequisites set by the operator. As an example of one of the prerequisites is if the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If this prerequisite is met, then the controller deems the system should be on and supplies power to the power connection boxes. The last step for the system is that the connection boxes energize the heat trace system. As the heat trace begins to generate heat that heat then gets transferred to the surrounding pipes, equipment, or concrete.
What is the System Designed to Do and What are the Benefits?
A heat trace system is designed to do one of four things:
- Freeze Protection heat trace systems are used to keep pipes and equipment from freezing in cold environments, thus preventing damage and operational disruptions.
- Temperature Maintenance heat trace system ensure that fluids and materials remain at the required temperatures for efficient processing and product quality.
- Frost Heave Prevention heat trace systems reduce the risk of accidents cause by ice and snow on concrete surfaces.
- Roof and Gutter heat trace system prevent ice dams from forming which prevents leaks and damage to residential, commercial, and industrial roofs.