Control of self-regulating heating cable for use in pipeline heating applications

Self-regulating heating cable is an effective method of electrical heat tracing. The control of temperature without conventional sensors such as resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) and thermocouples is described. The theory of temperature control using variable self-regulating cable is discussed. Characteristics unique to this method of heat tracing are detailed, as is a controller specified to meet these requirements. A cost-effective control system is described, and laboratory results are presented.<>