The benefits of heat tracing: consistent power, durability, and flexibility for temperature stability

Table of contents

A mineral insulated heating element is an electric heater that consists of two different wires. A conductive wire is connected to a resistance wire, both insulated with high quality magnesium oxide, and covered with a corrosion resistant sheath material. The conductor ensures a safe connection of the heater and bridges the distance from the connection point to the process. The resistor is in contact with the process that needs to be heated up.

The resistive heat tracing elements heat up to the required temperature when electricity flows through them, thus regulating the temperature of the fluid in the system.

As such, by using heat trace systems, temperature maintenance is ensured even in the most extreme temperatures and atmospheres.

The use of a series resistor in our heat tracing elements, allows for an almost unlimited variety in voltage/wattage/cable length configurations within the cable’s physical operating limits.

The maximum length is variable and depends on the sort of heater. For example, a heat tracing element can go up to 200 meters. The outside diameter of a heater can vary from 1.0 mm up to 13 mm. Single and dual core series heating resistance cables are available.

Solution for temperature maintenance and heat loss

  • Excellent insulation provided by a highly compacted mineral layer prevents heat loss, even at very low temperatures.
  • Reduced weight and volume due to compaction, allowing for faster response times.
  • High temperature endurance enables the cables to withstand extreme environmental conditions, such as maintaining fluid at 800°C in environments exposed to up to 1000°C.
  • Ideal for high voltage applications up to 750V, making them suitable for demanding electrical needs.
  • Consistent power output up to 300W/m, independent of temperature variations, ensuring reliable performance.
  • Exceptional strength and durability allows these heaters, when properly configured, to endure long-term exposure in high-stress environments, like the core of a nuclear reactor, with minimal degradation.
  • Flexible and easy to configure, with a bending capability up to 2.5 times the sheath diameter, enabling precise placement and preventing hot or cold spots.
  • Corrosion-resistant sheath material (options include stainless steel, Inconel 600, or Alloy 825), protecting against corrosive environments and aggressive chemicals for enhanced durability.