HD110301-1 Rev2
Page 19 of 23
INSTALLING SELF REGULATING CABLE
Install heating cable on the bottom half of the pipe between 4 & 8 o’clock. Install cable
straight along the pipe. In some instances, it may be necessary to install more than one run
or spiral the cable around the pipe. Example: pipe heat loss requires 12 W/ft., cable output
is 8 W/ft., therefore apply 1.5 feet cable per foot of pipe.
For typical installations the heating cable should be fastened with fiberglass tape.
Note: Do not use metal strapping or tie wire to fasten cable to pipe.
Aluminum foil tape (TAPE-AL) is typically used when installing heating cable on plastic pipes.
Applying a layer of foil tape on the pipe under the cable provides more efficient heat
transfer. An additional layer of foil tape fastening the cable to the pipe also assists in the
heat transfer and can prevent the cable from being embedded in the insulation.
Do not cut the cable until it is fastened to the pipe. This ensures you will have a sufficient
amount of cable for terminations and heat sinks such as valves, flanges, pipe supports and
any other piping equipment.
Install the heating cable in such a way as to allow for easy removal of valves and other
equipment.
Heating cable ends must be kept dry at all times. Until the cable is terminated, all ends should
be sealed from the environment with a moisture proof tape.
When pipe is buried, ensure the power and end of circuit terminations are above grade.
After insulation has been applied to the pipe, over the cable, visually inspect to ensure there
are no gaps in the seams or damage to the insulation.
Note: An improperly insulated pipe will result in a cold pipe.
