Analysis of heat tracing pipe temperatures as a function of physical and operational parameters

Variations in voltage, thermal conductivity, manufacturing tolerance, and other parameters that contribute to the actual system performance deviation from the calculated system performance are studied, as well as the effect of these variations on the performance of the system. A sample system consisting of 1 in. pipe with 2 in. of fiberglass insulation is studied for freeze protection. The concept of the load line is used to further understand the sensitivity of the heat tracing system to variations in parameters. Constant wattage and self-regulating systems, along with insulation and installation techniques, are also discussed