Electric heating systems of various objects are quite in demand today. They are fashionable to use both indoors and outdoors. Of particular interest are self-regulating cables. They are less demanding on the installation process and consume less energy.
Their device, the principle of application is different from conventional resistive cables. Customer reviews will help you choose the right product option. Experts will tell you how to properly mount such a system. This guarantees a long and productive life.
General characteristics
Self-regulating cables look very similar to their regular varieties, only slightly flattened. This is due to the device of the presented product. This shape allows a closer fit to the heated surface.
Most often, these products are used to heat pipes, tanks, drains and roof gutters. There are systems designed for arranging indoor heating, as well as outdoor installation in the ground or screed. Themlaid on steps or the roadway.
The range of application of such products is extremely wide. The advantage of such a cable is the change in the intensity of heating and energy consumption depending on the ambient temperature. Therefore, such a system does not need a thermostat: it adapts itself to existing conditions.
Wire design
Self-regulating heating cable has a special design. Between two conductive cores there is a matrix made of a special polymer material. It is made from carbon.
When the temperature in a certain area decreases, the conductive capacity increases, as does the heating itself. If it is quite warm around the cable, the material changes its properties, begins to somewhat restrain the flow of electricity, respectively, the heating decreases.
The internal structure is protected by multiple shells. The metal screen is necessary for grounding and protects the heating element from mechanical damage. The PVC outer shell also increases the durability of the product. The strength class determines the conditions under which the system can be used.
Benefits
Self-regulating wire has a number of advantages. If we compare it with resistive varieties, then it is easier to operate. It is not afraid of local overheating and does not need to maintain the same temperature along the entire length of the product.
It should also be noted that the presented system is not afraid of power surges. It can be crossed, unlike a constant heating wire. This is especially important when arranging the heating of pipeline systems and their valves.
Due to the design features, such products can be cut into small pieces. The minimum length in this case is 10-15 cm. Paying attention to the scope of their application, we can say that in the near future self-regulating systems may replace resistive ones.
Installation of the system
Installation of the presented product can be done independently. The manufacturer's instructions and expert recommendations must be followed. Installation of a self-regulating heating cable can be of two types: internal and external. If the pipe is already buried underground but needs to be passed over, a system with the appropriate insulation class should be purchased. Its length must match the size of the pipe.
The diameter of communications should not exceed 50 mm. The cable is pushed into the pipe and connected to the network.
In the case of external mounting, the system is attached to the surface with aluminum tape. Then it is isolated with a special insulation. If the diameter of the communications is small, the wire is laid evenly and corresponds to the length of the pipe. For fairly wide products, the cable is wrapped around them. The length of the system exceeds the size of the communications.
Heating open areas
Self-regulating pipe cable is quite often used insnow melting systems. They are fixed inside the gutters, on the roof. In addition, some systems of this principle of operation can be mounted on steps, ramps. They are poured with a solution and turned on to remove snow and ice on surfaces.
Quite large areas can be heated with this system. Paths for car access, paved areas near houses are also equipped in a similar way. The soil in the greenhouse is heated by self-regulating systems. Their price is higher than that of a conventional cable, but the operating costs will be much lower.
Varieties of cable power
For each type of conditions, it is necessary to select self-regulating cables that are appropriate in terms of power. Low temperature systems are suitable for indoor installation. Their maximum heating is 65 degrees. At the same time, their maximum power is 15 W / m.
For anti-icing systems, heating of pipes of medium diameter, gutters, it is necessary to purchase products with a maximum heating of 120 degrees. Their power reaches 30 W/m.
For industrial facilities, heating large diameter pipes, tanks, wire heating reaches 190 degrees. The maximum power in this case is 95 W / m. The price also depends on the power of the cable. By choosing the wrong type of cable, you can not get the result that was required. Therefore, the choice must be approached as responsibly as possible.
Cost
To purchase a system of the presented type, you will have to spend more money from the familybudget than when buying a conventional cable. But in operation, the price pays for itself pretty quickly.
Self-regulating cable, the price of which has been researched within our country, depends on the section, power and manufacturer. The most expensive are cables made in Denmark. Their cost can reach 700 rubles. for 1 m. Domestic manufacturers produce systems whose starting price is 100 rubles. for 1 m.
The longer the wire is purchased, the cheaper each running meter will cost. This must be considered before purchasing the product.
Consumer Reviews
According to consumer feedback, several brands are the most popular today. These include Raychem, Ensto, Devi, Lavita self-regulating heating cable.
Inside the pipeline, according to consumer feedback, products from Ensto (20 W / m) and Lavita (16 W / m) are most often used. Outside communications, Raychem products (10 W / m) are installed. The Danish company Devi produces a cable with a wide range of applications (9 W / m), but its cost is the highest.
The most reasonable price for Ensto and Lavita wires. The high quality of these products was also noted.
The Finnish company Ensto is not inferior to Devi in terms of durability, but these products will cost the buyer much cheaper. Therefore, many consumers choose products of this particular brand.
Having studied the design of products such as self-regulating cables, you can properly use them in everyday life. Montage prettyeasy to do on your own. The choice depends on the power of the product and the conditions of its use. It is a very efficient and durable system. It will serve its owners for many years, subject to proper operation and installation.
