Home / Controls and Accessories / Multi Zone Controllers

ABOUT MULTI-ZONE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Floor Standing, Wall Mounted, Rack or Portable Cart Control Panel arrangements are some of the solutions that can complete a heating system. Let HTS/Amptek® help configure the ideal controller for you. Custom heating solutions may need multiple circuits, they may be indoor or outdoor with single or three phase power distribution. The examples shown show the scope variation needed for custom designed heating systems.

Do I need to use a thermostat with heating tape?
Temperature control mechanisms are recommended for all types of heating tapes. We provide temperature controls with heating tape systems to make one cohesive network, and we utilize existing controls. There are a variety of control mechanisms available and the best choice depends on the temperature, voltage, accuracy and output used in your system. A mechanical bulb and capillary thermostat are recommended for temperatures below 325 degrees F. For voltage control a variable transformer or solid-state Triac controller may be used. For precise temperature control you can activate from a bench-top or wall-mount, we recommend the BT-15 or WM-15. We supply a complete list of thermostats and similar mechanisms, and we are happy to help you select the ideal device for your needs.

Can I Leave the Unused Portion Rolled Up?
No, your heating tape will not function properly if it is not touching the heat sink from end to end. Rolled up heating tape can be hazardous, so be sure your heating tape is completely and properly installed.

How Can I Tell Which Side is "Up"?
Heating tape exhibits a uniform temperature on both sides. Either side of the heating tape may be applied to the heat sink.

Can I Cut Heat Tape?
No. Heating tapes utilize constant electric flow throughout and are designed for a fixed resistance at a given length and voltage. The tape is pre-designed to suit your environment and attempting to modify it will destroy the tape.

How Does Heat Tape Work?
Heating tapes utilize a constant watt density at a fixed resistance over a fixed length and voltage to create heat. Heat output is based on a given input voltage. Heat transference to pipes, floors and other surfaces occurs through direct contact with the tape. An insulator surrounding the enclosed heating element stops the heat from escaping and maintains a desired temperature. Temperature controls integrated into the circuit allow you to control the temperature.

Why Is Heat Tape Temperature Different in Some Places?
The materials inside the heating tape determine the operating temperature. Different heating tapes utilize different materials to create and maintain a desired temperature.

Can I Hook Heat Tape Up to a Thermostat?
Heating tapes effectively integrate with a wide variety of temperature control devices such as: thermostats, variable transformers, Triacs, solid-state digital temperature controls, programmable logic controllers (PLC's) or computers.

Why do I need different sized heat tape?
The size of your heating tape is determined by a variety of factors, including a proper mechanical fit, heat output, voltage and temperature rating, among others. Expert installers at HTS/Amptek® Company will help you select the correct heating tape size for your application to ensure optimal energy efficiency, safety and durability.

What heat tape sizes can I choose from?
HTS/Amptek® Company supplies a range of heating tape sizes to give you the best fit. Our heating tape sizes are available on our price list and online store. When choosing your heating tape, be sure to consider the heat output, voltage and temperature rating involved in your application. If you are not sure which size is best for you, contact us and we are happy to assist you.


Features and Specifications

Configuration: Wall or Floor Mount, Rack, Portable Cart, or Custom
Enclosure: Indoor, Outdoor NEMA 1, 4, 4x, 12, (limited 7)
Supply Power Connectivity: 1 or 3 Phase, Main Disconnect, Terminal Block, Pre-wired
Supply Voltage: All Common AC Voltages and Low Voltage DC
Circuit Quantity: 1 to 6 Typical, Process or Process Limit
PID Logic: On-Off, Autotune PID, Ramp and Soa
Power Switching: SSR, SCR, Contactor, single and 3 Phase
Communications: Supported (USB, rs485, rs232, 4 – 20 loop)
Sensors: All Common Thermocouples or RTD
Power & Sensor Distribution: Receptacles, Panel Mount or Pre-wired, JB type, Internal Terminal Block, or Custom

TYPICAL AND SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Wall Cabinet, Floor Standing, Rack Mount, Bench Top or Cart Mounted
  • Process PID or Process PID and Limit, Manual or Auto Reset
  • Multiple Heating Zones available, 1 to 6 Zones are Typical
  • Comms, Serial, Ethernet, USB, Current Loop
  • Available 30ma GFEC Short Circuit Protection
  • Timers and other Local Process Functions
  • Pin & Sleeve Power Panel Mount Receptacles
  • Panel Mount Sensor Jacks
  • Common Thermocouples and RTDs

Preconfigured Junction Box Power Distribution
Prewired power distribution is convenient when the Heater Blankets and Jackets are distributed in a fixed distance from the Control Panel. Pin and Sleeve Receptacles mate with the Heater Cordset Plugs for a safe, modular connectivity solution.

Power and Sensor Extension Cables
Extension Cables are often the best solution to provide convenient hook-up when the Heater power and sensor leads are too short. Custom cables can be fabricated with Flex Conduit or SS Flex Armor for durability.

Portable Control Panels, Cart Mounted
HTS/Amptek® Company has introduced the ultimate portability to match the modular design characteristics of its Heater Jackets and Blankets. By mounting a control panel on a portable cart, both the Heaters and Control System may be installed in place for use then stored away as necessary. Whereas the Heaters are light weight, the control panel is often many hundred pounds.

Contact: HTS/Amptek®
Call or email your questions, or click the quote button for a convenient form to help us with the size and scope of your application.