The use of electric heating cable in bio oil pipelines

As a new energy source, the pipeline transportation of bio oil requires extremely high temperature stability. Electric tracing technology, with its precise temperature control and flexible adaptability, has become the key to ensuring the normal operation of bio oil pipelines. Next, I will analyze the specific application of electric heat tracing in bio oil pipelines based on the characteristics of bio oil.

1、 Temperature requirements for bio oil pipeline transportation

The main components of bio oil include water, organic acids, phenols, aldehydes, etc. The complex chemical composition makes its physical properties unique. In low-temperature environments, the viscosity of bio oil will increase sharply, the fluidity will decrease significantly, resulting in increased pipeline transportation resistance and even solidification blockage. Meanwhile, excessively low temperatures may also cause separation of bio oil components, affecting their quality and subsequent processing and utilization. In addition, the acidic substances contained in bio oil increase their corrosiveness to pipelines during temperature fluctuations. Therefore, maintaining the bio oil pipeline within an appropriate temperature range (usually 30-60 ℃) is the key to ensuring its smooth transportation and stable quality.

2、 Selection and installation of electric heat tracing

For the heat tracing requirements of bio oil pipelines, self limiting temperature electric heat tracing belts are commonly used choices. It can automatically adjust the power according to the ambient temperature, and when the pipeline temperature decreases, it will automatically increase the heating power; When the temperature rises, reducing power output and avoiding local overheating can not only meet the temperature stability requirements of bio oil pipelines, but also achieve energy-saving operation. For bio oil pipelines with long distances or extremely high temperature uniformity requirements, the solution of using a constant power electric heat tracing belt with a temperature controller is more suitable, which can provide stable heat output and accurately control the pipeline temperature.

In terms of installation, the electric heat tracing belt needs to be tightly attached to the surface of the bio oil pipeline, using spiral winding or straight laying methods to ensure even heat transfer. In areas such as pipe bends, valves, flanges, etc. that are prone to heat dissipation, heat tracing belts should be densely installed to enhance insulation effectiveness. After installation, polyurethane foam, rock wool and other insulation materials shall be covered to reduce heat loss. At the same time, waterproof and moisture-proof metal casing shall be wrapped outside the insulation layer to protect the tracing band and insulation materials and extend the service life of the system.

3、 Intelligent monitoring and maintenance

To ensure the stable operation of the electric heat tracing system in bio oil pipelines, an intelligent monitoring system needs to be introduced. Real time monitoring of temperature in various parts of the pipeline through temperature sensors, transmitting data to the control system. When the temperature deviates from the set range, the system automatically adjusts the power of the electric heating belt or sends an alarm signal. At the same time, the intelligent monitoring system can also monitor parameters such as current and voltage of the electric heat tracing system, and promptly detect problems such as line faults and damage to the heat tracing belt.

In daily maintenance, it is necessary to regularly check the operating status of the electric heating belt to see if there are any damages, loose wiring, or other issues; Clean the oil and debris on the surface of the heat tracing belt and pipeline to prevent affecting the heat dissipation effect. In addition, based on the characteristics and frequency of use of bio oil, regular comprehensive testing and maintenance of the electric heating system are carried out to ensure that it is always in good working condition.

Electric heat tracing technology effectively solves the temperature problem during the transportation of bio oil pipelines through scientific selection, standardized installation, and intelligent monitoring, providing strong support for the efficient utilization and promotion of bio oil, and helping the sustainable development of the bioenergy industry.