Self-regulating cables: overview, views, mounting features and feedback

Electric heating systems of various objects are quite in demand today. They can be used both inside and outside the premises. Of particular interest are self-regulating cables. They are less demanding on the installation process and consume less energy.

Their device, the principle of use differ from conventional resistive cables. Customer feedback will help you choose the right version of the product. Experts will tell you how to properly mount such a system. This guarantees a long and productive life.

general characteristics

In appearance, self-regulating cables are very similar to their usual varieties, but only slightly flattened. This is due to the device of the presented product. This shape allows you to densely adhere to the heated surface.

Most often, these products are used to heat pipes, reservoirs, drains and roof gutters. There are systems designed for heating in buildings, as well as for street installation in the ground or screed. They are placed on the 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 power consumption depending on the ambient temperature. Therefore, such a system does not need a thermoregulator: it adapts itself to existing conditions.

Wire Construction

The self-regulating heating cable has a special design. Between the two conductor cores there is a matrix made of a special polymeric material. It is made on the basis of carbon.

When the temperature in a certain area decreases, the conductive capacity increases, as does the heating itself. If the cable around the cable is quite warm, the material changes its properties, starts to restrain the flow of electricity somewhat, accordingly, the heating is reduced.

The internal structure is protected by several shells. A metal shield is necessary for grounding and protects the heating element from mechanical damage. The upper PVC sheath also increases the durability of the product. From the class of its strength depends on the conditions under which the system can be used.

Benefits

Self-regulating wire has several advantages. If we compare it with resistive varieties, then it is more simple to operate. He is not afraid of local overheating and does not need to maintain the same temperature throughout the 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 wire of constant heating. This is especially important in the arrangement of heating of piping systems, their valves.

Due to the design features such products can be cut into small pieces. The minimum length is 10-15 cm. Paying attention to the scope of their application, we can say that in the near future, self-regulating systems can supplant resistive systems.

Installation of the system

You can make installation of the presented product yourself. Follow manufacturer's instructions and expert recommendations. Installation of a self-regulating heating cable can be of two types: internal and external. If the pipe is already buried under the ground, but it needs to be overtaken, a system with an appropriate insulation class should be purchased. Its length should correspond to the size of the pipe.

The diameter of the 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 fixed to the surface with an aluminum tape. Then it is insulated with a special insulation. If the diameter of the communications is small, the wire is laid exactly and corresponds to the length of the pipe. For fairly wide products, the cable is wound around them. The length of the system exceeds the size of the communications.

Outdoor heating

Self-regulating cable for pipes is often used in snow melting systems. They are fastened inside 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 include to eliminate snow and ice on the surfaces.

Quite large areas can be heated with such a system. Tracks for the entrance of cars, asphalted plots near houses are also arranged 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.

Types of power cable

For each type of conditions, it is necessary to select the appropriate self-regulating cables for power. Low-temperature systems are suitable for indoor installation. Their maximum heating is 65 degrees. At the same time, their limiting power is 15 W / m.

For anti-icing systems, heating medium-diameter pipes, 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, the heating of the wire reaches 190 degrees. The limiting power is 95 W / m. The price also depends on the power of the cable. Choosing an unsuitable type of cable, you can get at all the wrong result that was required. Therefore, the choice must be approached as responsibly as possible.

Cost

To purchase a system of the type presented, you will have to spend more of the family budget money than buying a conventional cable. But in operation the price pays off quite quickly.

Self-regulating cable, the price of which has been investigated within our country, depends on the cross-section, capacity and manufacturer. The most expensive are the cables manufactured in Denmark. Their cost can reach 700 rubles. For 1 m. Domestic manufacturers produce systems with a starting price of 100 rubles. For 1 m.

The longer the wire is purchased, the cheaper each meter per meter will cost . This must be taken into account before buying the product.

Customer Reviews

According to consumers' reviews, today several brands are the most popular. These include a self-regulating heating cable Raychem, Ensto, Devi, Lavita.

Inside the pipeline, Ensto products (20 W / m) and Lavita (16 W / m) are most often used according to customer feedback. Outside the communications, Raychem products are installed (10 W / m). The Danish company Devi produces a wide range of cable (9 W / m), but its cost is the highest.

The most acceptable price for Ensto and Lavita wires. High quality of these products was also noted.

The Finnish company Ensto on the service life is not inferior to Devi, but this product 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 apply them in everyday life. Installation is quite simple to perform independently. The choice depends on the capacity of the product and the conditions for its use. This is a very effective and durable system. It will last for many years to its owners, subject to proper operation and installation.