Chromalox
®
DIVISION
4
SECTION
GCH
SALES
REFERENCE
DATE
SERVICE REFERENCE
Installation, Operation
and
RENEWAL PARTS IDENTIFICATION
PE417-3
161-025752-001
FEBRUARY, 1999
(Supersedes PE417-2)
Type GCH/GCHIS Circulation Heater
(for Steam, Gas and Air Heating)
© 2010 Chromalox, Inc.
Mounting
Lugs
Terminal
Housing
K.O. for Conduit
Inlet
Outlet
Temperature
Control
(when
specified)
OR
Specifications
– Design is dependent upon size of heater and customer's specifications.
Outlet
Inlet
Terminal
Housing
K.O. for Conduit
Temperature
Control
(when
specified)
2 Mtg.
Lugs Ea. - Min.
3/4" NPT
Pipe Plug
WARNING:
Safe operating conditions depend on oper-
ating pressure, mass velocity of gas and discharge
temperature of the gas. At a given discharge gas tem-
perature, heater element sheath temperature and
pipe body temperature will increase as gas flow (mass
velocity) decreases. The standard GCH has a 750˚F
limitation on the carbon steel body and 1500˚F limit
on the INCOLOY
®
sheath elements. Pressure limits
vary as the temperature of the vessel increases. If the
vessel temperatures exceed 250˚F or operating pres-
sure is greater than 100psi, the vessel limits must be
evaluated at the specific pressures and temperatures
expected during operation. Contact Chromalox if any
doubt exists as to temperatures that will be encoun-
tered in your specific application. At pipe body tem-
peratures above 750˚F, a stainless steel body is
required (Model GCHIS).
WARNING:
Do not exceed the Pressure-Temperature
rating of the flange as listed in ANSI B16.5. Before
installing, local codes must be reviewed to verify
ASME Certification of the pressure vessel is not a
requirement. If required, contact Chromalox.
WARNING:
This heater is not intended for use in haz-
ardous atmospheres where flammable vapors, gases,
liquids or other combustible atmospheres are present
as defined in the National Electrical Code. Failure to
comply can result in explosion or fire.
The GCH/GCHIS series is a general purpose gas or steam circu-
lation heater intended for indoor use. This heater can be used in an
outdoor environment, if ordered with an E4 moisture-resistant termi-
nal enclosure and a weatherproof insulation jacket. Also available is
an E3 explosion-resistant terminal enclosure. Consult with
Chromalox for operating restrictions in hazardous locations.
Note:
The GCHIS is intended for use in corrosive or high temperature
applications.
The INCOLOY
®
sheathed tubular elements are centered in a
steel/stainless steel heating chamber and welded to a removable
steel/stainless steel flange. The number of elements will vary,
depending upon the flange size used. Some units are fitted with baf-
fles to increase the flow. They are designated as GCHB. The assem-
bly is surrounded by insulation and a sheet metal jacket.
Depending upon the order specifications, the GCH/GCHIS may
or may not be factory equipped with an AR or other Chromalox ther-
mostat. Such thermostats function to control outlet temperatures and
to limit internal temperatures under abnormal flow conditions. These
controls are not fail-safe.
WARNING:
Users should install adequate back-up con-
trols and safety devices with their electric heating
equipment. When heating in closed vessels where the
consequences of failure may be severe, controls and
back-up controls must be used to prevent buildup of
temperature and/or pressure. Although the safety of
the installation is the responsibility of the user,
Chromalox will be glad to make equipment recom-
mendations.
GENERAL