How to use the electric heat tracing band for melting snow in airport gutters

Accumulated snow and ice in airport gutters are prone to cause safety hazards such as falling ice injuring people and exceeding structural loads, affecting the normal operation of flights. The electric heat tracing snow melting system, with its advantages of high efficiency and controllability, has become the core solution for snow melting in airport gutters. Mastering the scientific usage method can ensure the snow melting effect and guarantee the safe operation of airports in winter.

Selection and adaptation are fundamental, and it is necessary to match the special working conditions of airport gutters. Airport gutters have a large span, are exposed to the outside, and experience low temperatures in winter (often below -20℃) with high wind and snow loads. Therefore, priority should be given to low-temperature enhanced self-regulating electric heat tracing bands, with a recommended power of 30-45W/m, to ensure rapid temperature rise and snow melting in low-temperature environments. The sheath should be made of UV-resistant and weather-resistant fluoroplastic material, with a protection level of IP67, to withstand wind, sun, and ice and snow erosion. Products with explosion-proof certification should be selected for explosion-proof areas, in compliance with airport safety regulations.

Standardize the laying to ensure seamless snow melting. First, clear away debris and rust from the gutter to ensure a smooth surface. Lay the electric heat tracing band parallel to the length of the gutter, densifying the laying near the drainage outlet area (with spacing reduced to 15-20cm) to ensure smooth drainage. For corners, joints, and other areas prone to snow accumulation, use spiral winding to cover and avoid localized freezing. Secure the heat tracing band with stainless steel ties to ensure a tight fit with the gutter, while allowing for a 5%-8% expansion and contraction allowance to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction.

The supporting system is optimized to enhance the efficiency of snow melting. After laying, it is wrapped with 50-80mm thick flame-retardant insulation cotton, and the joints are sealed with aluminum foil tape to reduce heat loss. The insulation layer is covered with protective boards to prevent impact from ice and snow and mechanical damage. The temperature control system uses intelligent temperature-humidity dual sensors, which are set to automatically start when "temperature ≤ 2℃ and humidity ≥ 85%" and automatically stop when "temperature ≥ 5℃ or there is no snow accumulation". Coupled with a remote monitoring platform, it allows real-time monitoring of the snow melting status in various areas, facilitating operation and maintenance management.

Construction and operation and maintenance adhere to strict airport standards. Construction must be carried out during flight intervals to avoid affecting airport operations. Wiring is performed by professionals, and connectors are made of specialized waterproof and explosion-proof components, with proper sealing treatment; power terminals are equipped with leakage protectors and overload protection devices to ensure circuit safety. In daily operation and maintenance, the insulation resistance of the heat tracing belt (≥20MΩ) and the integrity of the insulation layer are checked weekly; before heavy snowfall, the system's startup performance is tested in advance; after snow melting, the accumulated water and debris in the gutters are cleaned to prevent blockage.

The core of using electric heat tracing bands for melting snow in airport gutters lies in "precise selection + standardized installation + intelligent control". Following these methods can effectively address snow accumulation and icing issues, thereby avoiding potential safety hazards. The scientific and rational use of electric heat tracing band snow melting systems can establish a solid safety foundation for the stable operation of airports during winter, ensuring the safety of passengers and flights.