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Heat Trace Controller Programming Standard

Heat Trace Controller Programming Standard

Purpose:


At ATCOM+, we prioritize precision and reliability in every aspect of our heat trace systems. This article outlines our internal standard for heat trace controller programming. It's important to note that while this standard serves as a robust guideline for our operations, it does not override any existing facility standards or specific design requirements for certain heat trace circuits. Additionally, this standard may not encompass all available controller configuration options but aims to cover the key programming points essential for optimal performance and safety.

Our goal is to ensure that every heat trace controller is programmed consistently and correctly to maintain system integrity and efficiency. The following table provides detailed programming instructions that align with our internal standards, promoting best practices across our projects.

Settings:

Setting

Value
Setpoint Temperature:  = Maintain Temperature (per Client)
Ground Fault Alarm: = 30 mA
Ground Fault Trip: = 50 mA
Low Temperature Alarm:  
Ambient Sensed:  = DISABLE
Line Sensed (See Note 1):  Metric
  = 3°C for Maintain of 5°C
  = (Maintain - 5) °C for lines where 5°C < Maintain <100°C
  = (Maintain - 10) °C for lines where Maintain ≥ 100°C
  Imperial
  = 5°F for Maintain of 40°F
  Maintain 
  = (Maintain - 20) °F for lines where Maintain ≥ 212°F
High Temperature Alarm (See Note 2):  = DISABLE
High Current Alarm:  
SR:  = DISABLE
M.I.: = Total MI Load x 1.25
High Current Trip: = DISABLE
Low Current Alarm (See Notes 3 & 4):  
Single MI:  = Amps/2 for single MI cable
Parallel MI:  = Total MI Load - (Lowest MI branch load /2)
Parallel MI and SR:  = Total MI Load - (Lowest MI branch load /2)
SR:  = 0.3A
Auto Cycle (Self Test): = 24 hours
Deadband / Proportion Band:  
Using EMR: = 5°C
Using SSR: = 3°C
RTD Fail (RTD Fault %):  
Ambient Sensed: = Circuit turns on (100%)
Line Sensed: = per Design

Notes:

All other controller set points shall be programmed per the standard controller set-point schedule.

NOTES:

  1. The low-temperature alarm for designs with a normal operating temperature less than the maintain temperature (hold temp) shall be as follows.

    1. = 3°C for Normal Operating Temperatures of 5°C.

    2. = (Op Temp - 5) °C for lines where 5°C < Normal Op Temp < 100C.

    3. = (Op Temp - 10) °C for lines where Normal Op Temp ≥ 100°C.

  2. High-Temperature Alarm, High Current Alarm and High Current Trip are typically disabled unless specifically designed to be on.
  3. If 90% of the Total Marshalled Load is less than the {Total MI Load-(Lowest MI branch load / 2)} use the 90% value for the Low Current Alarm.
  4. SR cable current is not to be considered in Low Current Alarm Calculation when MI & SR are marshalled together.

Conclusion:

By adhering to these standards, we ensure a high level of uniformity and reliability in our heat trace systems. While these guidelines are comprehensive, they are also flexible enough to accommodate the specific needs and standards of individual facilities. We encourage all users to consider their unique requirements and integrate these standards accordingly to achieve the best possible outcomes in their heat trace management.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our support team. Together, we can ensure the safe, efficient, and effective operation of your heat trace systems.