Electric Tracing System: Components and Working Principle

Many customers are familiar with electric tracing systems for insulation, but most are unaware of their components and working principles. Below is a detailed introduction.


Components of an Electric Tracing System

  1. Explosion-Proof Power Connection Box

    • Ensures safe wiring of the electric heating cable.

    • The quality of terminals directly impacts the system's safety and operational continuity.

  2. Explosion-Proof Intermediate Connection Box

    • Primarily used for connecting heating cables in complex relay lines.

    • Can function as a power connection box if the usage limits are not exceeded.

  3. End-Sealing Connection Box

  • Used for terminating self-regulating heating cables.

  • The other end is sealed with this box, and heat-shrink tubing must be applied.

  • Important: Never connect the two ends of the heating cable or parallel bus bars directly.


  1. Aluminum Foil Tape

    • Expands the heating surface of the cable, improving thermal distribution and efficiency.

  2. Thermal Adhesive Tape

    • Secures the heating cable to pipes or equipment.

    • Stainless steel zip ties may also be used for fixation.

  3. Warning Labels

    • Affixed to the outer surface after installation as a safety reminder and power indicator.


Working Principle of Electric Tracing

The principle is straightforward: Heating elements are installed between the insulation layer and the object to be heated. During operation, these elements maintain the target temperature, ensuring fluids or equipment remain within the desired range.

  • In Low-Temperature Environments:
    The conductive polymer expands, reducing current flow and heat output, thus stabilizing the temperature.

  • In Overheating Conditions:
    The polymer expands significantly, nearly cutting off all current and minimizing heat emission.


This self-regulating mechanism ensures efficient insulation. When temperatures exceed limits, heat generation ceases automatically.


Key Notes

  • Always follow safety guidelines during installation.

  • Proper component selection ensures system reliability and longevity.