In the Heart of Winter: Safeguarding Ancillary Equipment From Icy Threats

Industrial facilities often focus on preventing frozen pipes and valves during winter, but many overlook the equally critical task of protecting ancillary equipment. Control panels, pumps, instrumentation, and hoses face the same subfreezing dangers as piping networks. When ice forms on these components, it jeopardizes the efficiency and longevity of the entire operation, leading to costly downtime and safety hazards. With temperatures dipping well below freezing in the middle of winter, facility managers must take proactive measures to safeguard all equipment—not just the apparent pipes and valves.

BriskHeat, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, offers a range of solutions designed for comprehensive freeze protection and precise temperature maintenance. Their heating tapes, cables, silicone rubber heating blankets, drum and tote heaters, and other flexible heating products give plant operators control over sensitive equipment. Unlike traditional methods that only heat primary piping systems, BriskHeat’s products wrap around or attach directly to ancillary components. This direct-contact approach prevents cold air infiltration and condensation buildup on pumps, sensors, control boxes, and more.

Many industrial processes require freeze protection and accurate temperature regulation to preserve product quality and ensure safe operating conditions. At low temperatures, some liquids become more viscous or even solidify, interrupting process flow and compromising end-product integrity. Heating cables and silicone blankets from BriskHeat apply uniform warmth that keeps substances at optimal temperatures. Technicians avoid clogs and maintain consistent flow rates without risking overheating sensitive materials.

Industrial safety also depends on reliable temperature control. Excessive chilling in certain chemicals increases the risk of leaks or pressure-related incidents. Sensitive electronic components may fail under extreme cold, potentially halting critical operations. By enclosing or wrapping these items with BriskHeat’s flexible heating solutions, facility managers reduce the risk of malfunctions and maintain a safer environment for personnel.

BriskHeat’s decades of experience in electric surface heating applications underscore the importance of proactive planning. Waiting for a pipe to burst or an instrument to malfunction mid-winter often results in expensive repairs and production delays. Instead, engineers can use heating tapes or blankets, combined with insulation and temperature controllers, to create consistent heat zones for every piece of equipment that handles liquids, gases, or temperature-sensitive materials.

Winter conditions grow harsher daily, and industrial facilities must do more than protect primary piping systems. Pumps, control boxes, instrumentation, hoses, and containers are vital in efficient operations. The entire process feels the impact when even one of these components freezes. BriskHeat’s products offer an effective way to keep every part of a facility running smoothly and safely, whether the goal involves freeze protection, steady temperature maintenance, or both. Operators cannot afford to neglect these critical solutions when the stakes involve safety, product integrity, and overall process efficiency.

Alliance Technical Sales, Inc.
312 Park Avenue Unit 145
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514-0145
Phone: 630-321-9646
https://alliancets.com

Beat the Winter Rush: The Smart Move is Planning Freeze Protection Now

While everyone else is enjoying the last days of summer, savvy facility managers know that now is the perfect time to start worrying about winter—specifically, how to prevent their industrial pipes and vessels from freezing when the temperatures inevitably plunge. Sure, it might seem a bit early to start fretting about frost, but planning can save you from many headaches—and frozen assets—once the cold weather hits. After all, why wait until you’re knee-deep in the snow to start thinking about freeze protection when you can enjoy a bit of proactive anxiety now while the sun still shines?

The harsh winter months in the Midwest United States bring freezing temperatures that can severely impact industrial operations without proper precautions. Industrial facilities, particularly those with extensive piping and vessels, face significant risks of freeze damage, which can lead to costly repairs, downtime, and potential safety hazards. Prudent facility managers plan for industrial freeze protection well before the cold weather sets in to maintain operational integrity and safety.

Freeze protection involves more than just wrapping pipes with insulation. It requires a comprehensive approach that considers the facility's specific needs, the types of fluids transported, and the environmental conditions affecting the pipes and vessels. In the upper Midwest, where temperatures can plummet drastically, the stakes rise even higher. Failure to adequately protect pipes and vessels from freezing can result in burst pipes, damaged equipment, and significant financial losses due to halted operations.

Early planning is critical as it allows time for proper selection and installation of freeze protection systems. Waiting until cold weather arrives can lead to rushed decisions, insufficient protection, and potential oversights that might only become apparent when it's too late. By starting the planning process early, facilities can ensure they have the right systems in place, tailored to their specific needs.

BriskHeat, a leading provider of industrial heating solutions, offers a range of products designed to protect pipes and vessels from freezing. Their heating tapes, cables, and flexible heating jackets provide reliable and efficient freeze protection for various industrial applications. Facility managers can easily install and maintain these products, which BriskHeat can customize to fit each facility's unique requirements. Integrating BriskHeat's solutions into early freeze protection planning can significantly reduce the risk of freeze-related damage.

The versatility of BriskHeat products offers a key advantage. Whether you need to protect small-diameter pipes, large vessels, or complex systems with multiple components, BriskHeat offers solutions tailored to your specific needs. Their heating cables, for instance, maintain a consistent temperature along the length of a pipe, preventing freezing even in the most extreme conditions. Meanwhile, their flexible heating jackets provide uniform heat distribution for larger vessels, ensuring every part of the surface remains at a safe temperature.

Moreover, BriskHeat builds their products with durability in mind, designing them to withstand the harsh conditions typical of Midwest winters. This reliability means the systems require minimal maintenance once installed, allowing facility managers to focus on other critical aspects of their operations during the winter months.

Planning for industrial freeze protection early ensures smooth and safe operations throughout winter, not just damage prevention. By incorporating BriskHeat's advanced heating solutions into your freeze protection strategy, you can protect your assets, reduce the risk of costly downtime, and maintain the safety and efficiency of your facility, regardless of how harsh the winter becomes.

Alliance Technical Sales, Inc.
312 Park Avenue Unit 145
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514-0145
Phone: 630-321-9646
https://alliancets.com

The Crucial Need for Timely Freeze Protection in Modern Commercial and Industrial Facilities

As the winter months approach, the need for freeze protection in commercial and industrial facilities grows increasingly urgent. Today's commercial and industrial complexes aren't just basic storage units or manufacturing hubs; they are sophisticated, multi-dimensional entities often housing intricate machinery, expensive equipment, and digital infrastructure. The broad exposure of these facilities to various risks, particularly when under-prepared for cold weather, can result in significant losses.

Every year, many facility managers postpone or overlook freeze protection measures, believing they have ample time or aren't critically necessary, a precarious misjudgment. Given the multifaceted nature of modern facilities, even a minor freeze event can cause a cascade of issues. Water pipes can burst, causing flooding; machinery can malfunction, leading to production halts; and electronic systems can fail, resulting in data losses.

Apart from the direct damages, the ripple effects of such events can be monumental. Disrupted operations can lead to missed deadlines, lost contracts, and a tarnished reputation in the marketplace. Furthermore, the financial implications of repairs, replacements, and potential legal claims can be staggering.

In today's fast-paced, highly interconnected commercial world, downtime is a luxury most businesses can't afford. It is not just about the immediate monetary losses but the long-term impact on brand trust and customer loyalty. Preventative measures, like early freeze protection, are cost-effective and essential for ensuring uninterrupted operations.

The importance of timely freeze protection in contemporary commercial and industrial facilities is not to be overstated. By addressing potential risks proactively, businesses can safeguard their operations, protect their assets, and maintain their standing in the competitive market landscape. It's a small investment with a profound payoff: ensuring the smooth continuity of operations, regardless of the weather.

Established as a benchmark in the electric heating industry, BriskHeat has been dedicated to providing customers with top-tier heating solutions tailored to a myriad of applications. Recognized for their innovative approach, BriskHeat has developed a wide range of products designed to address the specific challenges posed by freezing temperatures.

BriskHeat's capabilities are not confined to a single product or application; they span a diverse spectrum of applications ranging from commercial to industrial needs. At the core of their product lineup are freeze protection solutions. These products are meticulously designed to prevent damage to equipment, machinery, and infrastructure during cold weather. They have consistently demonstrated their expertise in ensuring that businesses can operate seamlessly, regardless of how low the temperatures drop.

The BriskHeat product offering includes:

• Drum/Pail Heaters & Insulators
• Wraparound Tote Tank/IBC Heaters & Insulators
• Silicone Rubber Tote Tank/IBC Heater & Control
• Hazardous-Area Rated Silicone Rubber Drum Heater
• XtremeFLEX® Silicone Rubber Heating Tapes
• RKP XtremeFLEX® Silicone Rubber Heating Tapes
• XtremeFLEX® Silicone Rubber Heating Tapes
• Digital Temperature Controllers
• Outdoor Digital Controllers
• Ambient Sensing Capillary Temperature Controllers
• On/Off Thermostats
• Bulb & Capillary Temperature Controllers
• Hazardous-Area Equipment Bulb & Capillary Controllers
• Hazardous-Area Silicone Rubber Heating Blankets
• Heavy-Duty Silicone Rubber Heating Blankets
• Standard-Duty Silicone Rubber Heating Blankets
• Enclosure Heaters
• Crankcase Heaters for HVAC/R Compressors
• Mica Band & Nozzle Heaters
• Screw Plug Immersion Heaters
• Immersion Cartridge Heaters

To learn more about these products, visit this Alliance Technical Sales link and open the "2023 Electric Heating and Freeze Protection Solutions" link.

BriskHeat is a beacon of reliability and innovation in the electric heating world. Their commitment to excellence, especially in freeze protection products, positions them as a trusted partner for businesses aiming to combat the challenges of winter with confidence. For more information about BriskHeat products in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Contact them at 630-321-9646 or visit their website at https://alliancets.com.

From Safety to Efficiency: Why Industrial Electric Tote Heaters are Key in Process Plants

Industrial electric tote heaters, also known as IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) tote heaters, play a crucial role in the daily operations of manufacturing facilities and process plants. Their importance stems from their capabilities to maintain, raise, or lower the temperature of the contents inside the IBC totes, which can be critical for a variety of reasons:

1. Process Optimization: Many industrial processes require specific temperature maintenance for optimal efficiency. If the temperature is too low or too high, the process might not work as effectively or be damaged. IBC tote heaters ensure that the materials remain at the optimal temperature throughout the process.
2. Preventing Material Solidification: Certain materials, such as certain oils, chemicals, or foodstuffs, can solidify or thicken at low temperatures, making them difficult to work with or damaging equipment. Tote heaters can prevent this from happening by maintaining a stable temperature.
3. Improving Material Flow: By maintaining or increasing the temperature of the materials, tote heaters can improve the flow of viscous materials, making processes more efficient and preventing blockages in machinery.
4. Safety: In some cases, materials might need to be kept at a specific temperature to prevent them from becoming hazardous. For example, certain chemicals might become volatile or corrosive if they get too cold or too hot. Tote heaters can help maintain a safe temperature.
5. Product Quality: Maintaining the correct temperature can also be necessary to ensure the final product's quality. For example, a food product at the wrong temperature could spoil or develop off-flavors.
6. Cost-Efficiency: Electric tote heaters are often more energy-efficient than other heating methods, which can save money in the long term. They also provide uniform heat distribution, which is more efficient and prevents hotspots.
7. Flexibility: Many electric tote heaters are adjustable and portable, quickly moved between different totes or adjusted to accommodate other materials or process requirements.

Electric tote heaters are essential to many manufacturing facilities and process plants by providing precise temperature control, safety, and process efficiency. They enable these facilities to function effectively, safely, and economically.

Alliance Technical Sales 
https://alliancets.com
630-321-9646

Smart Planning: Tackle Your Freeze Protection Winterization in the Warm Season

Piping systems, valves, tanks, vessels and gutters require freeze protection in cold weather. The term winterization refers to safeguarding these components against freezing temperatures. The winter season presents numerous challenges for property and business owners, particularly in protecting their structures from freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Frozen pipes, gutters, and roofs during winter can damage property. Utilizing freeze protection products like heat trace systems, roof, gutter kits, and insulation can effectively safeguard you and your property from harsh weather conditions in various ways. 

But when should your freeze protection preventive maintenance effort begin?

Let's discuss undertaking winterization during the non-winter months, a prudent strategy for several reasons:

1. Mild weather conditions provide better access to areas requiring winterization, ensuring a thorough and efficient process.
2. Performing winterization in advance allows for careful planning and assessment of the facility's needs, minimizing the chances of overlooking vulnerabilities.
3. It enables businesses to schedule professional services during periods of lower demand, which can lead to cost savings and better availability of resources.

Ultimately, by proactively winterizing facilities during non-winter months, companies can reduce downtime and costly repairs caused by freezing temperatures and other winter-related issues, ensuring the smooth operation of their industrial plants and factories throughout the colder months.

Easy Access

Setting up freeze protection solutions in mild weather conditions enables effortless access to the installation locations. In comparison, winter months may cause these areas to be obstructed by snow or ice, making access challenging or hazardous. Taking a proactive approach ensures you protect property without jeopardizing your safety or that of others.

Strategic Planning and Readiness

Implementing freeze protection solutions during warmer periods allows you to strategize and prepare for the upcoming winter, minimizing potential stress and eliminating the need for rushed decisions. You can evaluate your property's requirements and choose the most suitable solutions. Additionally, you can engage a professional to guarantee proper and efficient installation.

Financial Benefits

Opting for freeze protection solutions in warmer months may save long-term costs. You can avert emergency repair expenses that tend to be considerably higher during winter when the demand for such services and products peaks.

Damage Prevention

Setting up freeze protection solutions before winter arrives helps avert property damage caused by freezing temperatures. It spares you the inconvenience and costs of adequately preparing for unfavorable issues.

In summary, opting for freeze protection solutions during warmer months is a forward-thinking strategy for safeguarding your property against the detrimental impacts of freezing temperatures. By planning proactively and taking early action, you can ultimately save time and money and reduce stress in the long term.

Alliance Technical Sales 

https://alliancets.com

630-321-9646

Winterization Tips for Your Building, Facility, or Industrial Plant

Anticipating freezing temperatures and safeguarding buildings, equipment, and materials from freeze damage are critical components of any annual property assessment. A solid freeze prevention plan comprises inspection, preventative maintenance, and corrective maintenance actions before the onset of cold weather.

Below are eighteen general freeze protection planning tips offered by application engineers and field experience comments. These procedures are not exhaustive, and we urge that you consult a professional before implementing your plan.

1. Roof and Gutter: Inspect, remove debris, and patch/repair (if needed): roof drains, scuppers, canals, gutters, down spouts before first frost. Inspect and functionally test installed roof and gutter heat trace system. Apply heat in susceptible areas.
2. Identify and test main water supply cutoffs for each facility. Ensure these areas are readily available to emergency personnel responding to a freeze/thaw incident. Apply heat in susceptible areas.
3. Inspect wet‐pipe sprinkler systems for areas prone to freezing. Apply heat in susceptible areas.
4. Identify materials that are subject to freeze damage in outside storage pads and unheated storage areas. Develop plan to ensure these materials can be easily heated and thawed to maintain production.
5. Check and place antifreeze used in cooling systems as necessary.
6. Protect heating system power and temperature controls against inadvertent deactivation.
7. Inspect insulation on piping and vessels.  Look for damage and vulnerable areas that might be exposed to freezing conditions.  Add or replace insulation as needed. 
8. Drain and remove water from all seasonal cooling systems (unless protected by heating tapes or antifreeze).
9. Inspect, test, and stage portable auxiliary heaters.
10. Inspect conditions of all surface heaters such as heating tapes, heating cable, drum heaters, IBC heaters, tank heaters, and pipe heaters. Verify operation and temperature settings and test ground‐fault equipment protection. Replace as needed.
11. Inspect, test, and repair heat trace heating cable located on cooling tower supply and return lines.  Apply heat in susceptible areas.
12. Inspect and identify remaining water and air lines subject to freezing. Install appropriate heat and insulation. Apply heat in susceptible areas.
13. For steam systems: Blow down drip legs, clean strainers, test temperature sensing devices for actuation of control valves and dampers, check steam traps, control actuators/valves, face and bypass dampers, linkages, and temperature controllers. Ensure that a vacuum breaker is installed and in working order on all preheat and heating coils which may be exposed to freezing conditions.
14. For ventilation systems: Test and calibrate all temperature sensing devices, and check operation of valves, dampers, linkages, control actuators, and temperature controllers.
15. Identify areas where personal safety is at risk due to icy conditions. Develop a slip prevention maintenance plan. Apply heat in susceptible areas.
16. Identify control panels and electronic devices susceptible to condensation. Install enclosure heaters to prevent short outs and corrosion.
17. Institute a facility wide awareness plan to identify and report any suspected problems with heating or other cold weather protection equipment during the cold season.
    
    
18. Special Consideration: Hazardous Materials 

• Ensure that all containers used for hazardous or toxic materials are properly stored, and inspect them for deterioration prior to handling. If containers become brittle (due to the combination of chemical attack, freezing temperatures, and ultraviolet light) they may break when moved.
• Liquids should not be permitted to remain in unheated process lines during periods when production has been stopped. All lines should be drained and purged to prevent future line breakage due to freezing temperatures.
• Ensure that piping, tanks, and valves in systems that carry hazardous or toxic substances are properly insulated and/or heated. Install heaters such as heating blankets, insulators, heating tapes, heating jackets, and heating cable as appropriate.

Tips courtesy of BriskHeat. For more information on all BriskHeat products, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call 630-321-9646 or visit https://alliancets.com.

The BriskHeat 15th Edition Full Electric Heating, Control and Insulating Product Catalog

BriskHeat produces flexible surface heating elements, controllers, and accessories for a wide range of applications.  They provide heating solutions applications in the petrochemical, semiconductor, food processing, biotech, aviation, steel, laboratory, power generation, and many other industries. Their solutions address various viscosity control, condensation prevention, process heating, and freeze protection issues. BriskHeat is a global pioneer in heat trace and flexible surface heat applications for pipelines, vessels, pumps, valves, etc.

DOWNLOAD BRISKHEAT'S 15TH EDITION FULL PRODUCT CATALOG HERE

For more information, contact Alliance Technical Sales.

Alliance Technical Sales
630-321-9646
https://alliancets.com

BriskHeat Industrial Heating Products from Alliance Technical Sales

Heating tapes, cables, blankets, drum and tote heaters, fabric jackets, tubular heaters, band, and cartridge heaters, composite curing systems, and more goods are available from BriskHeat. They offer high-quality heating and temperature control solutions to various sectors, including oil & gas, petrochemical, semiconductor, food processing, biotech, aviation, steel, laboratory, power generation, and many more.

BriskHeat products shown in this video are:

• Removable insulators and heating cable installed at compressor station
• Hazardous-area rated gas cylinder warmer
• Monitor light, heat trace, and removable insulators on pipe system
• Cloth heating jacket installed on valve for freeze protection
• Silicone rubber heating blankets installed on a vessel
• Heating mantle and flexible heating tape installed in a laboratory
• Immersion heater installed on IBC/Tote Tank
• Hazardous-area rated heaters providing heat to a 55-gallon (208 litre) barrel and IBC/Tote Tank
• Self-regulating heating cable and connection kits suitable for up to Class I, Division 1 environments

For more information, contact Alliance Technical Sales.

Alliance Technical Sales
630-321-9646
https://alliancets.com

Winter is Hard On Process Piping, Tanks, and Valves. Protect Them with BriskHeat.

We don't want to say we told you so, but .... we told you so. Winter weather is here, and the need to freeze protect vital process control equipment is evident. Frozen pipes, valves, and vessels caused by sub-zero temperatures and harsh winds cause spills, downtime, and unexpected costs. Additionally, frozen equipment presents the danger of shutting down factory production. It's not too late. You still have time to heat trace and freeze protect your critical equipment for the rest of this winter season.

Traditional heat tracing design schemes combine with innovative products, installation, control, and monitoring technologies in BriskHeat industrial heating products. BriskHeat industrial heating products are ideal for maintaining the proper temperature of valves, pumps, joints, crosses, elbows, flanges, pipes, and tees. Heat tracing cable (constant wattage and self-regulating), tote heaters, insulated heating blankets, immersion heaters, and thermostats are all available from BriskHeat. BriskHeat industrial heating products are long-lasting, reliable, and effective. 

With unpredictable weather conditions ahead, you must protect your piping, tanks, and valves. BriskHeat has a solution for every situation. To learn more, contact Alliance Technical Sales at 630-321-9646 or visit the Alliance website at https://alliancets.com.

Freeze Protection Season is Around the Corner. Get Ready Now.

Winter is quickly approaching. It's time to assess your plant's heat tracing system and ensure it's working correctly. Alliance Technical Sales can assist you with heat tracing, control, and monitoring equipment. Along with industrial pipe heat tracing, Alliance can help you with commercial pipe tracing and surface snow melting. 

Anticipating freezing temperatures and protecting buildings, equipment, and grounds from freeze damage are critical components of a Facility Maintenance Program. Pipe tracing, drum heating, roof and gutter de-icing, IBC heating, valve de-icing, vessel heating, and enclosure heating are just a few of the freeze protection applications to consider.

Most common objects to consider for seasonal freeze protection:

• Pipe heat tracing
• Drum heaters
• Tote heaters
• Gas cylinder heaters
• External tank heaters
• Roof & gutter de-icing
• Snow melting mats

Plant operators and maintenance personnel must be vigilant to keep their equipment from freezing. Cold temperatures frequently cause objects and their contents to be damaged or destroyed. Pipes, valves, tanks, vessels, conveyors, and housings are just a few examples of everyday things that can be damaged by cold temperatures, resulting in disastrous consequences, costly downtime, and unplanned outages. 

BriskHeat provides an excellent Freeze Protection Planning Guide and Checklist. Download it here. 

Make sure that any freeze protection requirements you have are ready. Failure to ensure adequate protection in these systems against freezing can have disastrous consequences. Act now to stay ahead of your freeze protection requirements before it's too late.

Alliance Technical Sales
https://alliancets.com
630-321-9646

Prevent Cold Weather from Affecting Your Outdoor Process Instrumentation

Ambient temperature will affect the measurement accuracy of process instruments. Additionally, when ambient temperatures are too low, fluids in the lines can freeze or thicken – resulting in physical damage. Instrumentation, manifold valves, actuators, and positioners exposed to adverse conditions need protection to avoid weather-related damage such as freezing.  

WinterShield™ Freeze Protection Heated Pockets (WSP Series) provide a "pocket" where the ambient air temperature within is maintained via a pre-set thermostat, thereby keeping your instrumentation well within typical operating specifications.

The WinterShield™ system provides a convenient, portable way to warm process equipment and keep it within proper operating temperatures. The design is indeed "plug and play" as they are entirely self-contained, include a power cord, thermostat, lacing, and insulation.

For more information, contact Alliance Technical Sales.

Alliance Technical Sales
630-321-9646
https://alliancets.com

Wintershield™ Freeze Protection Heated Pockets by BriskHeat

WinterShield™ Freeze Protection Heated Pockets (WSP Series) creates a pocket of warmth to protect pressure transmitters, pumps, gauges, and manifolds against extreme cold. 

The WinterShield™ is designed for plug and play and use in all weather. Perfect for sub-freezing environments, the lightweight portable and reusable one-piece rugged design comes in universal sizes for a wide range of objects, plus an extra-long 16 ft (5 m) power cord Lace-up openings on two-sides for easier installations.

For more information about the Wintershield™ contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call them at 630-321-9646 or visit this web page for more information.

Freeze Protect Your Pipelines, Valves, Vessels and Pumps Now!

It's that time of year again. Winter weather is coming. The need to protect vital factory equipment. A frozen pipe, valve, or vessel caused by lower temperatures and brutal winds will cause expensive, unplanned outages. Your exterior equipment is in danger of freezing and shutting down production. Right now is the time to fully assess your heat trace and freeze protection requirements.

BriskHeat industrial heating products incorporate traditional heat tracing design schemes with innovative products, installation, control, and monitoring technologies. BriskHeat industrial heating products are perfect for keeping valves, pumps, joints, crosses, elbows, flanges, pipes and tees working at the right temperature. BriskHeat products include heat tracing cable (constant wattage and self-regulating), tote heaters, insulated heating blankets, immersion heaters, and thermostats. All are designed for long life and are proven reliable and effective.

With unpredictable weather conditions ahead, you need to have your piping, tanks, and valves protected.  BriskHeat has a solution for any application. To learn more, contact Alliance Technical Sales at 630-321-9646 or visit the Alliance website at https://alliancets.com.

Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) Heaters

Intermediate bulk containers (also known as IBC tote, IBC tank, IBC, or pallet tank) are stackable, reusable, flexible containers with an integrated pallet base. These multi-use industrial-grade containers are designed to handle, transport, and store liquids, semi-solids, pastes, or solids. They are normally available in 250, 275, 330, 350, 450 and 550 gallon sizes. IBC totes are commonly used in food and beverage production, labs, cosmetics manufacturing, petrochemical/chemical production, oil & gas production, and in many areas of general manufacturing. 

Often, the contents of IBC totes need to be heated to prevent freezing or optimize viscosity for pumping or pouring. IBC tote heaters (or just tote heaters) refer to a certain style of flexible and immersion heaters used to heat the contents of intermediate bulk containers.  Most applications fall in to these areas: viscosity control, freeze protection, thermal mixing, temperature maintenance, and biofuel / biodiesel heating. Failure in keeping the products inside the IBC could result in the contents being ruined, production delays, or inability to dispense at all, which in turn increases production costs or causes damage. Damaged  equipment, replacing ruined materials, or waiting for usable product are expensive prices  to pay for improper heating.

Flexible IBC Tote Heaters

This category refers to flexible rubber blanket heaters that sit under, or is fitted around, the IBC tote. These heaters are designed with power densities (watt densities) that will not harm the tote itself, or the material it contains. Flexible tote heaters usually include backside insulation for better thermal and energy efficiency. Other design criteria include thermostats, water resistance for indoor/outdoor use or wash-down environments; 360° grounded heating element for safety; UL certification; 120 or 240 volt plug set.

Immersion IBC Tote Heaters

Immersion heaters are submersible heaters that use direct heat transfer to allow liquid mediums to quickly reach desired temperatures. They are commonly used with all types of tanks and processing equipment and are a cost effective, rapid heating method in almost any industrial or manufacturing environment. Immersion tote heaters design criteria include 120 or 240 VAC operation; a wide variety of flange/screw connection sizes; temperature indicators/displays; temperature controllers/thermostats; hi/low alarms; and power cords /connections types.

For more information about about IBC tote heaters, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call them at 630-321-9646 or visit their website at https://alliancets.com.

Heat Tracing Cable for Maintaining Critical Petrochemical Viscosity

Petrochemicals are petroleum-derived chemical materials. Many of these chemicals come from resources like coal , natural gas, corn or even sugar cane. The two most popular petrochemical groups are olefins and aromatics, the building blocks used to generate a wide variety of daily materials such as solvents, detergents, adhesives, plastics, resins, fibers, elastomers, lubricants and gels. Most chemicals and gasses move through pipelines and are stored in tanks in petrochemical plants. Petroleum-based chemicals often thicken and flow poorly at lower temperatures. If petrochemicals are not maintained at the correct temperature, viscosity problems cause the liquids to flow inefficiently and can starve or clog production lines.

To maintain the high temperatures needed for petrochemical output, install constant-wattage heating cable along piping. Constant wattage heating cable is a versatile heating cable mounted on the outside of pipes and valves (heat tracing) and capable of sustaining temperatures up to 260 ° C (500 ° F). Constant wattage heating cable is also used to heat long runs of piping systems up to several hundred feet. Heating cables are ideal for outdoor use and are FM-approved for hazardous locations. Insulation is advised to improve heat and energy efficiency and a temperature controller is needed to monitor constant wattage heating cable. On almost all pipe heating applications, constant-wattage heating cable may be used. Common uses  include freeze protection, viscosity reduction, condensation prevention, and more.

Self-regulating heating cable is another way to maintain lower temperature systems. This form of heating cable automatically changes its heat output depending on ambient conditions and never exceeds a fixed temperature, normally 149 ° F (65 ° C). Low temperature heating cable will reach 248 ° F (120 ° C). Typical uses for self-regulating heating cable are low-temperature repair and freezing applications.

For more information on any process heating requirement, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call them at 630-321-9646 or visit their website at https://alliancets.com.

Emergency De-Icing and Thawing for Industrial Pipes, Valves and Tanks

Reprinted with permission from BriskHeat

Download the PDF version of this application note here.

The cold weather can wreak havoc on exposed valves, pumps, pipes, bearings, filter housing, and other industrial objects. When these parts freeze, they typically become unusable, and in extreme conditions damaged. The freezing and damage causes extended and unwanted downtown and in some cases, costly repairs. Production teams cannot afford to allow the weather to restrict their productivity, and need a solution to remedy these problems quickly and safely.

De-Icing and Thawing Solution

BriskHeat’s HSTAT silicone rubber heating tape is the perfect tool for providing temporary heat to quickly get frozen systems back up and running and reduce downtime. When confronted with a stuck or frozen system, wrap the HSTAT heating tape around the frozen part, set the temperature, and allow the heat to quickly thaw/unfreeze the part. The easy-to-use portable heat tape provides instant localized heat to quickly de-ice parts efficiently and safely. When finished, the HSTAT heating tape is easily rolled up and kept in a toolbox or cabinet, ready for use again when needed.

HSTAT heating tapes are available in a variety of lengths and have a thin design for maximum
versatility, and extreme flexibility. They can be fit around nearly any shape or size component. A built-in adjustable controller regulates the temperature which can provide intense heat of up to 450°F (232°C). HSTAT heating tapes offer true performance and reliability in even the coldest conditions down to -60°F (-51°C). The easy to use plug-and-play design requires no need for special wiring. They feature BriskHeat’s patented, multi-stranded heating element for ultimate flexibility and reliability.

Additional Uses

HSTAT heating tapes have many additional uses. These include process control needs where a unique process requires heat, or for viscosity related needs where heat is used to reduce viscosity and increase flow, and more. They are used as a temporary heat source when needed or as a permanent installation. HSTAT heating tapes are used to heat all types of objects that require elevated temperatures.

For more information, contact Alliance Technical Sales. Call them at 630-321-9646 or visit their web site at https://alliancets.com.

Proper Installation of BriskHeat XtremeFLEX Heating Tape

BriskHeat XtremeFlex heating tape is very versatile due to its superior flexibility. Although it is versatile, there can still be failures in hotspots if it's not properly installed. The purpose of this short video is to help you avoid failures and hot spots, and to help you install your heating tape for optimal performance.

Before you get started there's a few things that you should keep in mind:

• Make sure you have these tools prior to installing the heating tape - Gloves, Heating Tape, Heat Conductive Putty, Scissors, Fiberglass Tape.
• Be sure that the surface that you're applying the heat tape to is clean, dry, and free of burrs, oils, debris or sharp edges. 
• Ensure that you don't overlap the heating tape onto itself leave at least an eighth of inch gap between each wrap.

You also want to ensure complete surface contact between the heating tape and the surface. Air gaps can cause hotspots which can result in premature failures to the heating tape. Use our heat conductive putty to bridge any gaps between the heating tape and the surface.  When working with heat conductive putty, wear proper personal protective equipment. Place a fair amount of putty where the transitions meet so that there will not be any air gaps when installing. With many heating tapes you will need a temperature controller device, so contact your BriskHeat Representative for assistance.

To make sure that the heat tape stays in place use briskets high-temperature fiberglass adhesive tape or high-temperature aluminum adhesive tape because it will not damage the heating tape and it can withstand the high temperature that the heating tape produces.  Use insulation on BriskHeat heating products in order to avoid heat loss.

For more information about the BriskHeat heating products, contact Alliance Technical Sales.

Phone: 630-321-9646

Web: https://alliancets.com

Heating Tapes: Application and Installation Tips

High temperature tape (left) and
moisture & chemical resistant
tape (right).

Heating tapes are easy-to-use, ideal for a wide range of thermal applications, and inexpensive. This article will provide simple installation tips to improve your heating tape product life, application performance, and most importantly, your safety.

Why Heating Tapes?

Heating tapes offer many advantages for solving a wide range of gas, liquid, and solid heating applications. 

Advantages:

1. Flexibility: Easily installs directly to a wide variety of surfaces and geometries (i.e. 1/4” diameter or larger piping, glassware, valves, reactors, chambers, etc.)
2. Rapid and uniform heat-up due to high watt densities and user-configurable installations
3. High temperature ranges
4. Easily controlled with standard temperature controlling devices
5. Variety of sizes, wattages, temperature ranges, and styles available to meet your exact heating requirements

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
while installing or removing heating tape.

Step 1: Preparation

Prepare surface to be heated: Wipe the surface making sure there is no foreign material, like liquid, on the surface.  Foreign material inhibits heat transfer and liquid can damage select models of heating tape (i.e. High-Temperature Heating Tapes).  

Make a visual inspection of heating tape: We recommend that you replace the heating tape if it becomes torn or damaged.  Damaged heating tape is a safety hazard and will not operate correctly. 

Selecting the Proper Heating Tape

Figure B

Selection of your tape depends on: 

• Length, diameter, and configuration of the surface to be heated
• Required temperature
• Required wattage
• Environmental conditions (i.e. likelihood heating tape will come into contact with moisture or chemicals)

Step 2: Installing your Heating Tape

Figure C

Heating tape can be installed on nearly any surface due to its flexibility.  Spiral wrap the heating tape onto the surface to be heated so that the length of one entire side of the heating tape is in full contact with the surface (Figure B). The distance between spiral wraps is dependent on the uniformity requirements and the amount of available heating tape.  A minimum distance of 1/8” is required between spiral wraps to avoid damage to the heating tape.

Attach the heating tape to the surface by either using built-in tie straps (Figure C), high-temperature adhesive tape (Figure D), or mechanical clamping devices that will not cause damage to the heating tape. 

Figure D

Ensure the heating tape is not kinked, twisted, or hanging free from the surface (Figure E and F). Do not overlap heating tape on itself (Figure G). This can cause damage to the heating tape due to overheating.

Do's

• Make sure you have selected the correct heating tape for your application. BriskHeat offers a wide range of sizes, voltages, and temperature ranges.
• Visually check your heating tape prior to use.
• Make sure that the heating tape makes full contact with the surface to be heated.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions while installing or removing heating tape.

Don't kink or overlap, apply without control, apply over
insulation, never use near flammable materials,
do not submerge, and do not use if tape is cut or damaged.

Don'ts

• Do not overlap the heating tape over itself
• Do not use heating tape without a controlling device
• Do not install heating tape on top of insulation near flammable materials, submerged in liquids, or if cut in any way.

For more information about heat tapes, or any industrial heating application, contact Alliance Technical Sales by calling 630-321-9646 or by visiting https://alliancets.com. 

Alliance Technical Sales Products

By combining world-class products, application expertise, and unsurpassed customer service, Alliance Technical Sales enables its clients to increase manufacturing efficiency, reduce production costs, and improve product quality and value. Each of the manufacturers we represent has extensive experience solving critical service applications with the products they manufacture.

Alliance Technical Sales, Inc.
https://alliancets.com
630-321-9646

Hazardous-area Approved Silicone Rubber Heating Blankets For Electrical Surface Heating in Hazardous Locations

Hazardous-area approved silicone rubber heating blankets for electrical surface heating in hazardous locations are available from BriskHeat. They provide a low profile heater design and are ideal for heating surfaces like tanks, hoppers, conveyors, silos, etc.

Silicone rubber heaters provide exceptional durability and longevity, plus moisture, chemical and radiation resistant. They are composed of heavy duty, extra thick silicone rubber which provides exceptional durability and longevity. Available with industrial strength pressure sensitive adhesive backing for easy installation and a patented grounded heating element for your safety meets NEC 427.23.

The resistance heating element is laminated between 4 layers of heavy duty fiberglass reinforced silicone rubber; two layers of 23mil and two layers of 25mil fiberglass reinforced silicone rubber. Optional built-in high-limit thermostats designed to keep blanket below NEC article 500 T-Rating are available.

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DOWNLOAD COMPLETE SPECIFICATIONS AND CUT-SHEET FROM THE ALLIANCE TECHNICAL SALES WEB SITE

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