Electric Heat Tracing Project: Detal Chemical Plant, Puente Mayorga (Spain)

Published 13 Jun 2025

Project Spotlight – Electric Heat Tracing: Detal Chemical Plant

The Puente Mayorga plant in Spain is one of the largest LAB production facilities worldwide. It uses UOP’s HF technology based on alkylation with hydrofluoric acid, and we produce normal paraffins, linear alkylbenzene (LAB), heavy alkylate (HAB), and sulfonic acid (LABSA).

In 2021, the Puente Mayorga plant undertook significant modernisation works, a key facility within their chemical production operations. As part of this upgrade, the team provided a comprehensive electric heat tracing system tailored to meet the performance, safety, and efficiency standards required by the site.

Project: Detal Chemical Plant Puente Mayorga

Location: Puente Mayorga (Cadiz), Spain

Scope of Supply

The scope of supply and services included:

• Engineering & Design

  • Full design and engineering of the EHT system to ensure consistent thermal management across critical process lines

• Supply & Installation of EHT

  • Over 3,400 metres of ELP/PFA self-regulating heating cable for pipe freeze protection and process temperature maintenance.

  • 727 metres of MI (Mineral Insulated) heating system, ideal for high-temperature applications and hazardous areas

• Power & Control Cabling

  • Installation of 7,000 metres of power and control cable to ensure reliable energy distribution and system communication

• Control Panels & Automation

  • Supply and installation of Main Distribution Boards (MDBs)

  • Deployment of the PASC (ELTC-24P) control system, delivering precise temperature regulation and system diagnostics

Delivering Reliable Heat Tracing for Chemical Processing

Heat tracing is critical in the petrochemical industry to maintain optimal flow conditions, prevent blockages, and ensure process safety. This project reinforced the strategic importance of reliable thermal solutions in chemical plants, especially in southern Europe’s variable climate.

Need A Trace Heating Solution?

With more than four decades of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick are recognised leaders in delivering specialist trace heating solutions for a wide range of industrial applications. From hazardous zones and extreme climates to critical process control systems, we design bespoke solutions tailored to the specific needs of your operation.

Our services include comprehensive in-house heat loss analysis, system design, and technical specification, backed by a commitment to engineering excellence. Using only premium, market-leading heat trace cables and components, we provide cost-effective systems that enhance operational efficiency, minimise downtime, and support long-term project reliability—from initial concept through to full commissioning.