What is maximum exposure temperature heat tracing?
Self-Regulating Heating Cables All heat-tracing systems for use at temperatures up to a continuous exposure (maintain) of 302°F (150°C) and intermittent exposure temperature of 420°F (215°C) shall use a self-regulating heating cable.
How do you choose heat trace?
Selecting the proper heat trace cable involves the following steps:
- Calculate pipe or tank dimensions.
- Specify insulation type, thickness and K factor.
- Specify pertinent temperatures (ambient, startup, maintenance, etc.).
- Describe the operating/ambient environment.
- Calculate heat loss from the pipe or tank.
Does heat trace need to be GFCI protected?
The NEC requires all heat tracing to be protected against ground faults with a couple of exceptions noted in Sec. 427.22. There is big a difference between the ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) that are used for personnel and equipment protection.
How does 120v heat trace work?
Current heat trace technology utilizes a self-regulating polymer that controls the wattage of the element. When the ambient temperature drops, the polymer creates conductive pathways that allow current to flow and heat to be produced.
Does heat trace have inrush current?
Self-regulating heat trace has increased inrush current at colder starts and can cause breakers to trip if maximum circuit lengths are exceeded.
What are the two most common types of heat tracing?
There are two general categories of Electrical Heat Trace Cable: Constant Wattage and Self-Limiting/Self-Regulating cable.
Does self-regulating heat trace need a thermostat?
Does self-regulating heat trace need a thermostat? Although it’s called “self-regulating,” the cable will not turn itself completely on or off. So, we do recommend that a controller or thermostat of some sort to be used with this type of heating wire.
What is a GFEP breaker?
What is a ground fault equipment protector (GFEP) and why is it necessary? • A ground fault equipment protector is a device intended to provide protection of equipment against damaging line-to-ground currents by disconnecting all ungrounded conductors of the faulted circuit.
Can you put heat tape under foam insulation?
* To avoid overheating, don’t cover heat tapes with insulation, even though some manufacturers may permit it. If you do add insulation according to manufacturers’ instructions, use a nonflammable type, such as fiberglass, not foam or vinyl insulation that could catch fire from a failing heat tape.
Can heat tape cause a fire?
Sadly, heat tape has the potential to cause fires in homes and businesses. Many of these products consist only of non-regulating tape which plugs into a wall outlet. If the heat tape remains activated for long periods of time – especially if temperatures rise and/or the tape is well-insulated – it can spark a fire.
Can self regulating heat trace touch itself?
Constant wattage heat trace and MI cable cannot cross or touch itself. When a constant wattage heat trace is crossed over itself, the heat only increases. When applying constant wattage heat cables to your pipes or other surfaces, ensure that they do not cross and are spaced sufficiently.
Does heat trace require insulation?
An effective heat tracing setup requires high-quality components, including insulation, which largely influences how efficiently the system maintains and manages heat.
What is the difference between heat tape and heat trace?
Heat trace cable is somewhat stiff, but it’s pliable enough to wrap it around your pipes, and it does not shrink; Heating tape is extremely flexible, therefore it’s better for tight contours and oddly shaped pipes.
What milliamps does a GFCI trip at?
It takes only 5 mA (0.005 A) of current leakage from the hot wire to the ground to cause a GFCI to trip. A small amount of leakage current may be difficult to avoid in some normal circuits. Hand-held power tools do not cause a tripping problem if the tool is maintained in good condition.