Trace Heating

Everything You Need to Know About Trace Heating

Trace heating, also known as self-regulating heating cable, is a type of electric heating element used to maintain or raise the temperature of pipes and vessels. Trace heating cable is used in various industries and applications, such as in HVAC, plumbing, and process piping systems.

How Trace Heating Works

Trace heating consists of a conductive core, typically made of copper or aluminium, that is surrounded by a dielectric insulation material and an outer jacket. The conductive core is heated when an electrical current is passed through it.
The heat generated by the conductive core is then transferred to the pipe or vessel, which is typically made of metal.

The dielectric insulation material and outer jacket protect the conductive core from the environment and prevent the heat from being dissipated into the surrounding air. The dielectric insulation material also prevents the electrical current from being conducted through the pipe or vessel.

Different Types of Trace Heating

Series Resistance Trace Heating

A series resistance heating cable is a type of heating cable that uses a high-resistance wire to generate thermal energy. These cables are typically less expensive than other heating cables and can maintain high temperatures for longer periods. However, because a break or failure anywhere along the length of the cable would cause the entire cable to fail, these cables are typically only used for longer heating processes.

Even though series resistance trace heating is effective, the circuit still needs to be monitored and controlled. This is because the resistance material can overheat and melt. Series resistance trace heating is often used when there is a need to heat a long pipeline, such as the quayside of load pipes on oil refineries and along oil pipelines.

 
Constant Wattage Trace Heating

Constant wattage trace heating is a type of trace heating that uses a constant amount of power to generate heat. This type of trace heating is often used for shorter heating processes and is less expensive than series resistance trace heating. However, because it uses a constant amount of power, it can overheat the heating cable and cause the entire system to fail. Constant wattage trace heating is used for various applications, including domestic hot water pipes, load pipes on oil refineries, and oil pipelines.

Self-Regulating

Self-regulating trace heating is a type of trace heating that uses a self-regulating controller to keep the heating cable at a set temperature. This type of heating is often used in industrial and commercial applications, where a master controller typically controls the temperature of the heating cable.

How Does Trace Heating Work?

A trace heating system uses heat trace cables to deliver heat directly to a pipe or vessel. The system may include:

• Self-Regulating Heating Cables: These cables automatically adjust their heat output based on the ambient temperature, ensuring energy efficiency.

• Constant Wattage Heating Cables: These provide a consistent heat output along the length of the cable.

• Built-In Thermostat: Many trace heating kits feature a thermostat to control the system, ensuring it only operates when required to stop pipes freezing.

By using thermal insulation alongside trace heating, heat loss from the pipe is minimized, further enhancing efficiency.

Benefits of Trace Heating

1. Freeze Protection:
   Trace heating is commonly used to prevent pipes from freezing, ensuring uninterrupted water flow in cold weather.

2. Temperature Maintenance:
   It helps maintain or raise the temperature of pipes and vessels, making it essential for hot water systems and process heating applications.

3. Energy Efficiency:
   Self-regulating cables automatically adjust their heat output based on the ambient temperature, reducing energy consumption.

4. Versatility:
   Trace heating systems are suitable for a wide range of applications, including frost protection, maintaining hot water temperature, and industrial processes.

5. Ease of Installation:
   Pre-made frost protection trace heating kits simplify the installation process, saving time and effort.

Applications of Trace Heating

1. Domestic Settings:

• Preventing pipes from freezing in cold weather.

• Maintaining hot water temperature in residential systems.

2. Commercial Use:

• Protecting water pipes in commercial buildings.

• Ensuring reliable operation of heating and water systems.

3. Industrial Applications:

• Steam trace heating for process heating.

• Maintaining the temperature of pipes and vessels in industrial processes.

4. Greenhouses and Outdoor Systems:

• Providing frost protection for irrigation systems and greenhouses.

Popular Trace Heating Products

1. Trace Heating Kit with Thermostat:
   Pre-made kits include all the components required for easy installation, such as self-regulating cables, cable ties, and a built-in thermostat.

2. Raychem Products:
   Known for their high-quality and reliable performance, Raychem trace heating solutions are widely used across the UK.

3. Electric Heat Tracing Cables:
   Available in various lengths and power outputs, these cables provide focused heat along the pipe or vessel.

How to Install Trace Heating

1. Plan the System:
   Determine the pipe length, cable length, and power output required for your application.

2. Install the Cable:
   Lay the heat trace cable along the length of the pipe, securing it with cable ties.

3. Apply Thermal Insulation:
   Cover the pipe and cable with thermal insulation to minimize heat loss.

4. Connect to a Power Source:
   Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to connect the heating cable to a power source and thermostat.

5. Test the System:
   Ensure the trace heating system operates correctly and maintains the desired pipe temperature.

Conclusion

Trace heating is a vital solution for protecting pipes from freezing, maintaining hot water temperatures, and ensuring efficient operation of heating systems in the UK. Whether you need a trace heating kit with a thermostat or custom-designed solutions for industrial applications, there’s a wide range of high-quality products available to meet your needs. Invest in trace heating today to enjoy reliable, energy-efficient performance throughout the year. Buy Insulation Online is one of the best insulation and trace heating suppliers in the UK. We got everything you need for your heating needs. Shop now.