A User´s Experience with Electric Heat Tracing

The use of electrical heat tracing systems can provide excellent flexibility in piping systems of chemical manufacturing plants located in areas subjected to subzero weather. However, eight years of experience with various types of systems in an Indiana pharmaceutical manufacturing plant has resulted in an annual concentrated effort to insure maximum performance. Challenges have arisen due to engineering design oversights, the improper installation of material, and unanticipated production techniques and ``immediate action´´ procedures. Details of some of each of these challenges have been included as well as programs which have been initiated to overcome the problems. These programs have greatly improved the reliability of the heat tracing systems as well as allowing continued production operations regardless of the weather conditions throughout winter months.