Rail traffic has to run smoothly even in cold and snowy winters. With rail transport it is not only about getting a lot of people to their destinations on time but also ensuring passengers safety.
Freeze prevention on tracks and switch points is imperative to keep them free from ice so trains can safely operate on track and on time. A reliable, energy efficient electrical trace heating system with intelligent control achieves just that as well as providing several technical and economic advantages such as:
Electrical Trace Heating System Benefits
Optimised heat transfer from the trace heater to the railway track or switch point
Best possible energy efficiency and cost saving operations
Simple, fast assembly for quick installation and easy maintenance
Low maintenance effort
Prevention of damages or short-circuits through moisture thanks to fluoropolymer insulation
Easy access to the trace heater thanks to attachment to the outside of the rail or switch point
Protection and prevention of heat loss thanks to thermally insulating cover profile
Thorne & Derrick, the UK’s leading Specialist Distributor of Electrical Process & Trace Heating Solutions, earlier this year announced they have entered into a Strategic Partnership with Eltherm UK Ltd, the subsidiary of the Eltherm Group, a world-class manufacturer of Heat Tracing Cables & Systems for the commercial, industrial and hazardous area industries.
Example of a switch point heating being tested in Burbach, Germany
Rail,Track and Switch Point Heating Checklist
A Trace Heating B Power connection C Termination D Holding bracket E Cover profile F Switch lock heating (not shown)
The checklist is a schematic illustration of rail, track and switch point heating. This is just a schematic overview, not an installation instruction. For detailed information, please contact T&D.
EL-Rail
up to 150ºC
The eltherm EL-Rail is a flat cable, combining six Fluoropolymer insulated series heating conductors in a silicone over-jacket. Superior properties of the heating system include: low installation and operation costs with professional support from eltherm making the EL-Rail the first choice in rail heating applications.
Technical InformationÂ
Max. maintain temperature
50 °C
Max. exposure temperature (de-energised)
150 °C
Maximum nominal voltage
1000 V
Minimum bending radius
2“ / 50 mm
Power output
50 – 150 W/m
Dimensions
8 x 34 mm
Minimum installation temperature
– 40 °C
EL-Track
up to 200 °C
EL-Track is a parallel resistance trace heater with constant wattage (W/m) power output, fluoropolymer insulation and thermally insulating cover profile and fast assembly clip for freeze prevention on power rails. Installation occurs directly under the head of the rail instead of on the neck and ensures high heat transfer directly to the top of the power rail. Fast installation on long tracks thanks to innovative fast assembly clip.
Technical InformationÂ
Max. maintain temperature
50 °C
Max. exposure temperature (de-energised)
200 °C
Maximum nominal voltage
750 V
Minimum bending radius
2“ / 50 mm
Power output
50 – 150 W/m
Dimensions
15 x 7 mm
Minimum installation temperature
– 50 °C
EL-Point
up to 200 °C
With the EL-Point heating cable, eltherm has developed a particularly efficient and intelligent solution. Compared to conventional flat rod heating elements, our flexible trace heating systems offer network operators technical, economical and logistical advantages. By means of the versatile adaptability, any unevenness is compensated. This enables a better heat transfer from the heating cable to the rail. As a result: The rail temperature increases at comparatively lower power output.
Technical InformationÂ
Max. maintain temperature
50 °C
Max. exposure temperature (de-energised)
200 °C
Maximum nominal voltage
750 V
Minimum bending radius
2“ / 50 mm
Power output
50 – 150 W/m
Dimensions
15 x 7 mm
Minimum installation temperature
– 50 °C
The Electrical Heating Package
Thorne & Derrick provide a complete portfolio of Electric Process & Trace Heating Solutions for Industrial, Hazardous Area & Explosive Atmospheres,
Specialist Distributors of Electrical Heating, Lighting, Power & Process Instrumentation Equipmentto deliver significant safety and reliability improvements in the Industrial, Explosive Atmosphere & Energy sectors.
Your proactive problem solvers experienced in succession planning for the replacement of obsolete, non-conformant and legacy equipment in hazardous areas with ATEX & IECEx Certification & DSEAR Regulatory Compliance.
Thorne & Derrick | Stockists & Key UK Distributor
Uploaded by Natalie Lundie | Supply Chain: Marketing Lead at Thorne & Derrick
Hazardous Area lighting
Application
Thorne & Derrick, the UK Specialist Distributor of Wolf Safety Lighting were approached by a major player in the global aviation industry. The company wanted to improve their shot blasting maintenance turnaround time of their fleet of Airbus’s that were located in Spain.
The client required a hands free, temporary ATEX lighting solution so staff could could carry out inspection, maintenance and repair safely inside the potentially explosive atmosphere of the aircrafts’ fuel tanks.
Shot Blasting In The Aviation IndustryÂ
Shot blasting is a vital step in aircraft maintenance and repair, as it helps to remove corrosion, paint, and other surface contaminants that can affect the performance and safety of aircraft components as well as prolonging the life of assets.
In addition, the lighting fixtures for the aviation industry are designed to be resistant to dust, vibration, and shock, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of the shot blasting process.
In this instance a solution was needed which would supply much higher quality, brighter lighting within the fuel tanks and would leave operators’ hands free to concentrate on the maintenance and shot blasting work.
The light source must have the correct ATEX certification to counter the potential risk of explosion and take into account the physical challenges of the aircraft’s structure, including the narrow entrances and confined nature of the tanks themselves.
Wolf ATEX Lighting To Safely Illuminate The Interior Of Boeing 737 Fuel Tanks
ATEX Tank Lighting Kit
Solution
Thorne & Derrick quickly identified that the client required a powerful, safe and cost effective ATEX and IECEx certified lighting solution for the shot blasting and recommended the LinkEx™ Tank Lighting Kits by Wolf. These ATEX Tank Lighting Kits are designed for aircraft fuel tanks, ensuring safe and efficient refuelling operations.
The kits include four sealed LED lights and a linkable power supply, which is mounted outside the aircraft. They are rugged enough to handle the harsh conditions of aircraft refuelling while remaining lightweight and easy to install.
By providing this temporary ATEX lighting solution, Thorne & Derrick were able to help the client improve safety and efficiency during their aircraft maintenance activities, while also ensuring regulatory compliance in a potentially hazardous working environment.
How Did T&D Help?
T&D reacted quickly to the client’s original enquiry that came in via our website. Our technical sales team called the client to discuss their requirements in more detail. Within two hours of the initial enquiry we had received an order for one unit as a trial, they subsequently ordered another fitting the week after.
This demonstrates our commitment and ability to provide efficient and effective service to our customers. Our dedicated sales team are always ready to respond promptly to any queries and provide technical expert advice to ensure our customers get the best products and services.
At Thorne & Derrick, we understand that harsh industrial or hazardous environments demand reliable & correctly certified equipment. All of our Sales Engineers hold CompEx Certificates (Hazardous Awareness Course EX F) and undertake continuous learning and advanced Explosion Protection training with our supply chain to ensure their knowledge of the latest standards is regularly updated.
⚠ Did You Know? – Thorne & Derrick were voted Winners of the 2021 Award for ‘Best Customer Service’ and awarded the 2023 Delegates’ Award at the annual HazardEx Event
The Threat of Explosion in the Aviation Industry
The aviation sector plays a critical role in the economy by facilitating travel, trade, and commerce. The sector also has a significant impact on the environment, and efforts are being made to reduce emissions and minimise its carbon footprint. The aviation sector is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology and changes in regulations and global events influencing its direction and growth.
Some common areas where explosive atmospheres can be present in the aviation industry include fuel storage areas, fuel transfer areas, aircraft maintenance areas, and aircraft hangars. In these areas, any spark, flame, or electrical discharge can potentially ignite the flammable materials present, leading to a catastrophic explosion.
Managing the risk of explosion
To manage the risk of explosion, various safety measures can be implemented, including:
Explosion-proof equipment: All ex electrical equipment used in hazardous zones must be designed to prevent sparks and electrical arcs that could ignite flammable materials
Ventilation systems: Proper ventilation systems can help prevent the buildup of flammable gases and vapours in confined spaces
Explosion barriers: Physical barriers can be installed to contain potential explosions and limit their impact
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers in hazardous zones should be provided with appropriate PPE, including explosion-proof clothing and respirators
Training and education: All workers in hazardous zones should be trained in the risks of explosion and the precautions needed to prevent them
Regular inspections and maintenance of equipment can help identify and address potential hazards before they lead to an explosion
Specialist Distributors of Electrical Heating, Lighting, Power & Process Instrumentation Equipmentto deliver significant safety and reliability improvements in the Industrial, Explosive Atmosphere & Energy sectors.
Your proactive problem solvers experienced in succession planning for the replacement of obsolete, non-conformant and legacy equipment in hazardous areas with ATEX & IECEx Certification & DSEAR Regulatory Compliance.
Heated Hoses/Sample Lines Stocked and Distributed by Thorne & Derrick
Heated Hoses
Heated hoses, also known as heated sample lines, are specialised hoses that are designed to maintain a consistent temperature. They are typically used in applications where the temperature of the liquid or gas being transported needs to be maintained throughout the length of the hose, and can be used in both industrial and hazardous areas (ATEX).
These hoses are often used in industries such as food and beverage production, chemical processing, and oil and gas extraction. Heated hoses typically have an insulated layer between the inner and outer layers of the hose that houses a heating element. The heating element is designed to raise the temperature of the liquid or gas passing through the hose, and the insulation helps to contain that heat.
Some heated hoses are designed to be self-regulating, meaning that the heating element automatically adjusts its output based on the temperature of the liquid or gas being transported. Others have a set temperature that is regulated by a thermostat. Overall, heated hoses offer a reliable and efficient way to transport liquids and gases that need to be maintained at a specific temperature.
Eltherm Heated Sample Lines & Hoses
Following a recent strategic partnership agreement with Eltherm, Thorne & Derrick hold extensive UK stocks for a range of heating products including heated hoses. Eltherm is one of the leading suppliers of heated hoses / flexible heated lines, ensuring the transport of liquid and gaseous media without loss of temperature.
Eltherm heated hose products are available with different temperature ranges up to 100 °C, 200 °C, 250 °C or 450 °C.
Designed and manufactured for your customized applications
In-house manufactured heating cables for best quality and longer lifespan
Up to 450 °C for a variety of applications
High flexibility for applications where a small bending radius is required
➡️ For the heating and process temperature maintenance of pipework and mechanical services Thorne & Derrick stock and supply a complete range of heat trace cables and trace heating systems.
Advantages of flexible heated hoses
Flexible transport without temperature loss of liquids and gases is very important, therefore Eltherm offer various possibilities to heat containers, pipes, tanks or vessels. These heating products also offer increased safety for personnel, as there is less need for manual handling of hot or cold fluids; along with energy efficiency as heating is localised to the hose and does not require large heating systems
Eltherm’s heated hoses are versatile and can be used in various applications, such as transporting liquids and gases, melting solids, freeze protection, and process heating. The hoses are available in different materials and sizes, are easy to install and maintain, and are energy-efficient and safe. Each system is tailor-made with high flexibility and load capacity.
Whether in use on moving production unit components, in mobile applications (e.g. gas analysis) or for balancing offset piping, heated hoses are available for the specific application.
Heated Hose Applications: A closer look
Transport of liquids: Can be used to transport liquids without any temperature loss, even over long distances. This is particularly useful in the chemical industry, where the temperature of the liquid is critical to the success of the process.
Transport of gases: Can also be used to transport gases such as air, nitrogen or hydrogen without any temperature loss. This is useful for processes such as gas analysis, where the gas must be kept at a specific temperature.
Melting of solids: Used to melt and transport solids such as wax, epoxy or resin in industrial applications where these materials are used as adhesives, coatings or sealants.
Freeze protection: Heated hoses can be used to protect pipes, tanks, valves and other equipment from freezing in cold weather. This is particularly important in outdoor installations or in areas with harsh winter conditions.
Process heating: Used to heat liquids or gases for various processes such as sterilization, distillation or drying. This is useful in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and cosmetics. Eltherm’s heated hoses are available in various materials and sizes to suit different applications. They are also designed to be easy to install and maintain, and to ensure high energy efficiency and safety.
Design of a Heated Hose
In partnership with Thorne & Derrick, Eltherm heated hoses are individually designed and produced according to customer specifications.
Industrial and Hazardous Area Heated hoses always consists of an inner liner, temperature sensor, heating conductor, insulation, outer jacket and an end cap. The heated hose can then be operated via a controller by recieving information from the temperature sensor. Fittings are installed depending on the application, the operating pressure and temperature.
The outer jacket of the equipment can also be constructed from a variety of metals according to requirements. For example an outer jacket made of stainless steel will be more mechanically robust and suitable for higher temperatures; compared to a silicone outer jacket which is washable and designed for more flexibility and smaller bending radius. For high-pressure applications, fluoropolymer and polyamide materials can be used.
Heated Hoses From Eltherm
Where are Heated Transport Systems needed?
There are a variety of applications, where a heated sample line would be required. For example, they are often used in chocolate production to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the process. The hoses can be used to transport melted chocolate from the heating tank to the production line without the chocolate solidifying or cooling too quickly. This ensures that the chocolate remains liquid and easy to work with, which is crucial for creating high-quality chocolate products.
ATEX Heated Hoses are also essential to the oil and gas industry because they are used to transport viscous chemicals and materials that solidify at lower temperatures. These materials include crude oil, asphalt, and bitumen. Heated hoses help maintain the viscosity of these materials by heating them to the required temperature, ensuring that they remain fluid and pumpable.
Heated hoses must be able to withstand high temperatures and pressure, making them an essential tool in drilling, exploration, and refining operations. They also provide safety benefits by preventing the solidification of materials that could cause blockages, leaks, or other hazardous situations.
ELTHERM UK DISTRIBUTORS, STOCKISTS & SUPPLIERS
Thorne & Derrick provide competitive prices, fast delivery from stock & the supply and design for the complete range of Eltherm electrical trace heating systems.
While we cannot control the weather, we can protect against the impacts. Our trained sales engineers can advise and support on custom heating solutions to suit the needs of your application. Thorne & Derrick can also provide heat loss calculations and a design service to help keep your plant and personnel operational during the winter months.
EXPERTS IN WINTERISATION SOLUTIONS FOR INDUSTRIAL & HAZARDOUS AREA ENVIRONMENTS
Thorne & Derrick hold the largest UK stocks of frost protection & winterisation equipment to help keep your plant and personnel operational during the winter months.
Thorne & Derrick understand that prolonged periods of low ambient temperatures can bring operations to a standstill costing thousands of pounds in lost downtime.
Experts in heating solutions for use in industrial & explosive atmospheres, Thorne & Derrick have the knowledge & expertise to help clients prevent unnecessary down time this winter.
We can provide overnight delivery of Trace Heating Cables at the most competitive prices to guarantee frost protection of your pipelines and mechanical services.|Â Ask About Our Heat Trace Design Service.
💡 Contact us today and our skilled and friendly team can provide technical support. As well as this they can offer reliable, fit for purpose and compliant solutions to suit your exact requirements.
Thorne & Derrick, the UK’s leading Specialist Distributor of Electrical Process & Trace Heating Solutions, are delighted to announce they have entered into a Strategic Partnership with Eltherm UK Ltd, the subsidiary of the Eltherm Group, a world-class manufacturer of Heat Tracing Cables & Systems for the commercial, industrial and hazardous area industries.
Eltherm are a global engineering company with modern-technology production facilities, serving international markets and projects from 14 locations on 5 continents with their headquarters in Burbach, Germany.
Together, our combined experience and close co-operation will now deliver significant industry benefits including access to the UK’s largest stock holding of heat tracing cables – this Agreement is supported by a record investment in stock levels with over 150 kilometres of cable ordered by Thorne & Derrick.
Since 1985, Thorne & Derrick have supplied over 3 million metres of trace heating cables– this includes design and delivery of complex multi-kilometre, major-project, process heating systems for explosive atmospheres to heat trace cable kits for frost protection of mechanical building services to prevent pipework bursts.
The in-house expertise of Thorne & Derrick’s Application Engineers comprehensively support clients in the specification, design and supply of reliable Electrical Heat Tracing Systems – we provide Fit for Purpose Design & Engineered Solutions to maximise uptime and optimise revenue. We problem-solve to preserve industry processes and profits.
Terry McDonald (Business Development Manager at Thorne & Derrick) commented, “We have a leadership role to further strengthen in the electric heat tracing market – the implementation of this agreement firmly embodies a customer-centric strategy. From concept to commissioning we expertly support our clients projects with custom design, competitive supply and installation support – our customers vary from international oil and gas EPC contractors to local thermal insulation installers. We look forward to introducing Eltherm to our existing and prospective clients.”
“Thorne & Derrick were voted Winners of the 2021 Award for ‘Best Customer Service’ and awarded the 2023 Delegates’ Award at the annual HazardEx Event – we are absolutely committed to excellence in customer service,” added Terry.
Mark Wood (Managing Director at Eltherm UK Ltd) added, “Thorne & Derrick will now stock and support the sales and marketing of Eltherm products in the UK; using their experienced Trace Heating team to further strengthen and develop relationships with many key accounts and drive new business and specification opportunities across our key industries.
“In addition, Eltherm UK Ltd will support this activity with our in-house knowledge, and consolidate and our develop their existing core accounts and our build on their successful projects and installation business across multiple market sectors.”
“Both businesses will align to bring synergies and added-value to all customers by working together to provide high quality heating products and solutions,” concluded Mark.
The Electrical Heating Package
Thorne & Derrick provide a complete portfolio of Electric Process & Trace Heating Solutions for Industrial, Hazardous Area & Explosive Atmospheres,
Specialist Distributors of Electrical Heating, Lighting, Power & Process Instrumentation Equipmentto deliver significant safety and reliability improvements in the Industrial, Explosive Atmosphere & Energy sectors.
Your proactive problem solvers experienced in succession planning for the replacement of obsolete, non-conformant and legacy equipment in hazardous areas with ATEX & IECEx Certification & DSEAR Regulatory Compliance.
Thorne & Derrick are pleased to announce that we will be hosting NEPIC’s Cluster Connect in November at our very own offices! This exciting opportunity will allow us to showcase a range of products that promote safety and compliance in the industry, as well as welcoming fellow NEPIC members to deliver safety and competency talks.
The Cluster Connect is your opportunity to catch up with members, hear the latest news, promote developments and network.
This free, monthly meeting brings together members and offers the opportunity to make introductions, develop connections and gain support and inspiration from industry colleagues, along with helping to raise your personal and business profile.
This month Thorne and Derrick, along with two additonal member businesses, discuss their products and services that support the day to day operations of the process industry – with a theme of Safety, Security & Competency.
âž¡ Get In Touch to find out how you can attend the event
Thorne & Derrick
Thorne & Derrick are a specialist provider of industrial & hazardous area electrical equipment. This includes Process Heating, Lighting and LV-MV-HV cable accessories. We strive to bring product innovation to clients to help develop safer, reliable and cost efficient working procedures. As a member of NEPIC we continue our mission in raising awareness regarding some of the safety and non-compliance issues we see in our industry on a daily basis.
Thorne & Derrick are your local supply chain partners to consolidate and service your equipment requirements for the chemical-processing industry. As experts in equipment for explosive atmospheres, our specialist team can service both UK and International requirements with the most extensive range of Hazardous Area Lighting, Process Heating, Portable Ventilation & Electrical Equipment. Since 1985, we have been trusted to specify and supply a comprehensive range of certified equipment to explosive atmopsheres.
We will be delivering a product showcase demonstrating our extensive range of product innovations; delivering significant improvements to operational safety and working procedures in the process industry. We will also be exhibiting a selection of LV-HV cable accessories, tooling & electrical equipment: along with plant, process & personnel protection.
Security & competency
The below businesses will also be featured at the event discussing Safety, Security & Competency.
Cyberwhite – CyberWhite is a trusted provider of innovative cyber security solutions and people-focused consultancy services who are committed to making the world a more cyber-secure place, by helping to protect organisations from cyber harm. They have a blended approach of delivering industry leading technology solutions, security strategies, information security consultancy, and awareness training, all help to identify, measure and remediate cyber threats, providing complete peace of mind.
Think Eleven – Think Eleven are experts in competency and talent management. Their key product, SkillStation, is a powerful and intuitive online software platform that empowers clients to successfully manage all aspects of training, competence, compliance and performance management. Their aim is to support their clients to develop a robust and transformational competency framework aligned to your business plan and strategy. Funding for this support is available across the North East region though the Made Smarter Programme.
This event is open to NEPIC Members and a limited number Non Members.
ABOUT NEPIC
NEPIC is a not-for-profit organisation that supports the needs and interests of the chemical-processing sector in the North East of England. Essentially, we exist to ensure industry in this region thrives – and that we have investments, innovations and a network that will create jobs and opportunities long into the future.
By working closely with member companies, we forge meaningful business relationships that allow us to identify opportunities, facilitate connections, promote collaboration and enable growth. We also actively work beyond our traditional stakeholder base with universities, research institutes and public bodies to leverage additional value for the sector.
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