Freeze protection of pumps and their piping

Freeze protection of pumps and their piping

Don't let the freeze happen

Almost every industry has to deal with the potential danger of pipeline freezing. During mining, slurries and other liquids must be transported from point A in the pipeline to point B in the pipeline without flow restrictions. In the event of a pipeline freeze or other restriction, it can be very expensive and can result in downtime (interruption) throughout the mining process. Without proper precautions, pipeline freezes can and will happen.

The oil and gas industry also faces the problem of cold pipes causing liquids to thicken. Cold outdoor temperatures draw heat away from pipes that lack insulation or other heating protection, increasing liquid viscosity and slowing flow.

Volutes and icing

Vulnerable areas of piping (systems) include volute-type centrifugal pumps that stop working if they freeze. The volute area must be kept frost-free, and it should also be heated slightly to maintain a constant temperature that has little effect on the liquid flowing inside.

The problem with icing in the pump volute area is that it transfers to the piping. This restricts flow and ultimately shuts down the pipeline, leading to unplanned downtime, which is very expensive for mining companies. Other problems can also arise, such as pressure build-up, which can lead to cracks or even ruptures in pipes, fluid leaks, and environmental disasters.

Pipe Freeze

When cold weather hits, keeping your pipes from freezing quickly becomes your top priority. There are several heating methods that can have some effect on thawing and retaining heat in a ductwork system, especially in areas prone to freezing.

Electric heating belt

Electric heating tape, also known as heat tracing, is a quick solution to icing or freezing pipes. It consists of wrapped wires or heating elements that provide heat along the pipes. Sometimes referred to as a "band-aid" for heating solutions, electric heating tape works best when you need a temporary solution. However, for long-term duct heating repairs, you need to consider other options.

Heating cable

Similar to electric heating tapes, self-regulating heating cables are lines of wires or heating elements that are coated with an insulating protective layer. Commonly used in residential antifreeze solutions as well as in industry, heating cables can be wrapped around pipes and provide direct contact heat. Problems can arise, however, when neither the exposed areas of the pipe nor the parts that come into contact with the heating cable are heated.

Keep warm

Freeze protection is to cover the pipe with insulation and place a layer of fiberglass or other insulation between the pipe and the cold environment. Insulation alone is less effective due to the lack of ability to provide heat. Unless the liquid flowing through the pipe is heated, you will need a heat source to work with insulation to properly protect the pipe (system).

Heating blanket

Heating blankets are the most reliable option for duct freezing. Combining insulation with heating elements embedded within the blanket, this method of duct heating is preferred in nearly every industry around the world. The heating blanket can be individually sized to accommodate irregularly sized components in the ductwork, such as the volute area. Most heating blankets are also economical and can be reused after the cold season.

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