Heat Traced Pipes - Wrapping Factor

Wrapping factor when the heat loss from a pipe or tube is higher than the capacity of the heat trace cable. Calculates the "heat loss - cable output" ratio to determine if spiral wrapping is needed.

Calculator

Inputs

Heat Loss from Insulated Pipe (W/m)

Heat Output from Heat Trace Cable (W/m)

Results

Heat Loss - Cable Output Ratio (HR)--

Wrapping Required--

Wrapping Factor Information

Formula: HR = Qhl / Qt

Where:

HR = Heat loss - cable output ratio
Qhl = Heat loss from the insulated pipe or tube (W/m)
Qt = Heat output from the heat trace (W/m)

Interpretation:

If HR ≤ 1: No wrapping needed - single cable is sufficient
If HR > 1: Spiral wrapping required - pitch distance depends on pipe diameter and HR value

Example: For a 4" pipe with HR = 3, the pitch (distance between spirals) is approximately 5-6 inches (125-150 mm).