There are significant differences between constant power electric heat tracing tapes and self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes in several aspects. Here is a detailed comparison of these two types:
Constant Power Electric Heat Tracing Tape
The working principle of constant power electric heat tracing tapes is that heat is generated by the current passing through the heating wire, which is usually evenly distributed within the insulation layer.
Regardless of changes in the external environment, its power output is constant, hence the name "constant power electric heat tracing tape."
Its on-off cycles are typically controlled by a temperature sensor to achieve precise temperature control.
Self-Regulating Electric Heat Tracing Tape
Self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes use high-polymer conductive carbon particles as the heating elements, which are connected in parallel with two parallel bus wires.
When the temperature rises, the resistance value of the carbon particles increases, thereby automatically limiting the heating temperature.
Therefore, self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes can adjust their heating temperature according to the surrounding environment without the need for an additional temperature control system.
Constant Power Electric Heat Tracing Tape
Constant power electric heat tracing tapes typically consist of an insulation layer, heating wire, metal shielding layer, and outer jacket.
The heating wire is the core component responsible for generating heat.
The metal shielding layer and outer jacket serve to protect and enhance mechanical strength.
Self-Regulating Electric Heat Tracing Tape
Self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes primarily consist of high-polymer conductive carbon particles, two parallel bus wires, an insulation layer, and an outer jacket.
The high-polymer conductive carbon particles act as the heating elements, capable of automatically adjusting the heating temperature with changes in the environment.
Maintain Temperature
The highest maintain temperature of constant power electric heat tracing tapes is usually higher, reaching up to 190 degrees or more (depending on the model and specifications).
The highest maintain temperature of self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes is relatively lower, generally between 65 degrees and 105 degrees (depending on the model and specifications).
Usage Length
The maximum single piece usage length of constant power electric heat tracing tapes is generally longer, reaching up to 250 meters or more (depending on the model and specifications).
The maximum single piece usage length of self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes is relatively shorter, typically no more than 100 meters (depending on the model and specifications).
Core Tape Width
The core tape width of self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes is usually wider, up to about 13 millimeters.
The core tape width of constant power electric heat tracing tapes (especially flat and round electric heating tapes) is relatively narrower, generally no more than 8 millimeters.
Constant Power Electric Heat Tracing Tape
Constant power electric heat tracing tapes are usually used in scenarios that require higher maintain temperatures and longer usage lengths, such as large storage tanks, long pipelines, etc.
Due to its constant power and good controllability, it is also often used in scenarios that require precise temperature control.
Self-Regulating Electric Heat Tracing Tape
Self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes are more suitable for scenarios that require flexible installation and automatic temperature adjustment, such as complex pipeline layouts, heating pipes in confined spaces, etc.
Due to its easy installation and no need for additional temperature control systems, it is also commonly used for insulation and heating of small equipment and pipelines.
In summary, there are significant differences between constant power electric heat tracing tapes and self-regulating electric heat tracing tapes in terms of working principles, structural features, performance parameters, and application scenarios. When choosing, one should select the appropriate type of electric heat tracing tape based on the specific application requirements and scenarios.
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