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Vessel Heaters

Vessel Heaters

Vessel heaters, both large and small, are devices designed to heat liquids or gases contained within vessels or tanks. They are commonly used in various industrial processes, such as oil refining, chemical production, food processing, and water treatment, among others.

Large vessel heaters are typically used in industrial settings where large volumes of liquids or gases need to be heated, or where vacuum bake-out is required. They are often custom-designed to suit specific applications and can handle high flow rates and large capacities. Large vessel heaters may utilize different heating methods, such as electric immersion or surface heating elements, steam, or hot water circulation systems, depending on the requirements of the process.

Small vessel heaters, on the other hand, are generally used in smaller-scale applications, such as laboratories, research facilities, or small production setups. For example, flexible electric heating elements such as Tapes, Blankets or Jackets are often used to simulate the other heaters such as steam or fired heat exchangers.

The specific design and features of vessel heaters can vary depending on the application and the requirements of the process. Some common features include temperature control systems, safety mechanisms, insulation to minimize heat loss, and materials suitable for the specific medium being heated.

It's important to note that the above information provides a general overview, and the actual design and specifications of vessel heaters can vary significantly depending on the specific industry, process, and requirements.

HTS/Amptek® Industrial Self-Regulating Trace Heating Cable

HTS/Amptek® Industrial Self-Regulating Trace Heating Cable

Industrial trace heating cables, also known as heat tracing cables, are specialized electrical cables used in various industrial applications to maintain the temperature of pipes, vessels, tanks, and other equipment. They are designed to provide controlled and consistent heat to prevent freezing, maintain process temperatures, or facilitate viscosity control of fluids in industrial processes.

Trace heating cables are typically made of a heating element, configured in a weather proof, spooled wire or cable format.  This convenient format enables quick and easy installation. The heating element is usually made of resistive alloy materials, such as nichrome, copper in constant wattage alloys, or self-regulating polymers, which generate heat when an electric current passes through them. The insulating layer provides dielectric strength while directing the heat towards the desired location.  The outer protective layer provides mechanical protection and resistance to environmental factors.

HTS/Amptek® industrial trace heating cables are self-regulating, and are offered in prefinished lengths to make them the most convenient of the available varieties. The most common are self-regulating, constant wattage cable and tape, and mineral-insulated cables.  Each design has its own unique properties and applications. Constant wattage cables provide a consistent heat output along the entire length of the cable, making them suitable for maintaining high temperatures in long runs of pipes or vessels. Self-regulating cables, on the other hand, adjust their heat output based on the ambient temperature, making them more energy-efficient and suitable for freeze protection applications, or where temperature control is critical. Mineral-insulated cables which are normally the most difficult to apply, are highly durable and suitable for harsh environments, such as corrosive or high-temperature environments. (See HTS/Amptek Tek-Rod® for preconfigured M.I. cables) 

Industrial trace heating cables are used in a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, food processing, pharmaceuticals, power generation, and many others. Common applications include freeze protection, process temperature maintenance, viscosity control of fluids, and protection against condensation or crystallization in pipes, tanks, valves, and other industrial equipment. For shorter runs and laboratory applications, Heating Tape is an excellent way to apply heat with standard, preconfigured lengths for all common voltages. (See heatingtapes.com for HTS/Amptek Duo-Tape®) 

Proper installation and design of trace heating systems are essential to ensure efficient and safe operation. It is important to follow industry standards and guidelines, as well as consult with qualified professionals to determine the appropriate type, size, and configuration of trace heating cables for a specific application. Regular maintenance and monitoring are also necessary to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues to keep your system running.

HTS/Amptek® Sleeved Heating Jacket Systems fit over unusual surfaces such as Valves and Pipe Fittings

HTS/Amptek® Sleeved Heating Jacket Systems fit over unusual surfaces such as Valves and Pipe Fittings

A sleeved heating jacket is a type of insulation system that is used to maintain a desired temperature on valves or fittings to cover gaps where direct fit cannot be achieved. It typically consists of a rigid sleeve made of formed stainless Steel, that wraps around the pipe or fitting and is secured with fasteners or adhesive. A Flexible Electric Heating Jacket then fits over the smooth sleeve to heat the Stainless Sleeve and create “oven effect” over the uneven surface.

Sleeved Heating Jackets are designed to provide uniform and controlled heat to the valve, pipe or fittings to prevent freezing, condensation, or temperature loss in the fluid or gas flowing through the system. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications where maintaining a consistent temperature is critical for the proper functioning of the process or equipment.

In addition to the heating elements, sleeved heating jackets also include insulation layers to further enhance thermal performance and reduce heat loss. Insulation materials such as fiberglass or mineral wool is used to incapsulate valve, pipe or fittings, to improve energy efficiency and minimize heat loss. 

Sleeved heating jackets for pipes and fittings are available in various sizes, shapes, and temperature ranges to suit different applications. They require temperature controllers, sensors, and safety features to ensure accurate, reliable, and safe operation.

Overall, sleeved heating jackets are an effective solution for maintaining the desired to prevent issues associated with temperature fluctuations and improving the efficiency of industrial and commercial processes. However, proper installation and usage in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and industry standards are essential to ensure safe and reliable performance. Consult with your HTS/Amptek® sales engineer for design solutions, and controller recommendations. HTS/Amptek® is a complete systems source for Sleeved Heating Jacket product design and control.