PIPELINE AND EQUIPMENT HEAT TRACING

The transfer and storage of materials that have high freezing points and that become viscous or solid at normal ambient temperatures have long been a difficult problem. Consequently, piping and equipment often need to be heated and this is usually accomplished with some type of heat tracing system. Three types of tracing systems are employed  

The choice of a particular tracing method depends upon several factors  

Tracing systems are generally not designed to raise the temperature of process fluids they are designed simply to maintain fluid temperatures at some suitable value. Tracing systems should be properly thermally insulated. 

Electrical Heating Impedance Resistance Internal Cables External Cables Tapes Strips Panels Induction 

Energy savings can be achieved by the proper design, installation, operation, and maintenance of tracing systems. The most commonly used heating medium is steam however, liquid systems and electrical systems have many advantages and their application is increasing. An evaluation of all possible methods is 

---