The Electrical Heat Tracing system is used across various industries to prevent freezing of fluids inside pipes (such as oil, gas, related products, petrochemical products, etc.) or to maintain the temperature of fluids inside pipes or tanks. In fact, the main function of the Heat Tracing system is to maintain the fluid temperature at the intended location (tank, etc.) or along its transfer path to the destination, such that the fluid temperature does not fall below the operator's required holding temperature.

Heat Tracing System – Components

Integrated Control/Monitoring/Distribution Panel, Mains Supply, Cable Tray or Conduit, Junction Box, Connecting Equipment, Temperature Controller/Limiter, Heating Cable, Insulation & Jacketing.

Reasons for Using the Electrical Heat Tracing System to Maintain Fluid Temperature

Ambient temperature changes affect the process condition

Water-based fluids may freeze in winter

Oil or hydrocarbon-based fluids become viscous (thicken)

Chemical substances may solidify

In the food industry, materials may separate during production stages, altering their properties

In the perfume industry, temperature changes during production may prevent the correct scent from being achieved

In the ink manufacturing industry, ink and pigments lose their stability due to temperature changes during production

Temperature changes negatively impact product quality and performance

When Heat Tracing Is Needed

When the fluid (process) temperature must be kept higher than the ambient temperature, according to the laws of thermodynamics the fluid — acting as a heat source — begins to lose thermal energy until it reaches equilibrium with the surrounding environment. The amount of energy lost per unit length/surface area is calculated as Heat Loss. To compensate for this Heat Loss, heating systems — particularly Electrical Heat Tracing systems — are used together with insulation.

Steam or hot-oil systems were previously used for this purpose; however, about 50 years ago, when reliable, constant-power electrical technologies suitable for use in hazardous (explosion-proof) areas emerged, they rapidly gained ground and became widely adopted across most refinery, petrochemical, and other industry licenses, for the following main reasons:

Distinct advantages in system operating and maintenance conditions

Considerable efficiency in reducing energy consumption

Ability to precisely control temperature to the desired operating level

Self-regulating system behavior with quasi-intelligent performance during operation