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  1. Industrial Hot Oil Heater Replacement: Signs That It’s Time to Upgrade

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    At American Heating Company, we’re proud to manufacture industrial hot oil heaters that are built to last for decades. Designed with innovation and durability in mind, our industrial thermal fluid heaters are among the longest-lasting on the market – some lasting upwards of 30 years.

    But inevitably, time passes. Nothing lasts forever. Even if you’ve purchased one of our reliable, high-efficiency heaters, eventually the time to consider hot oil heater replacement will come.

    And when that time comes, we want you to be prepared.

    Here, we’ll review key signs that indicate it’s time to replace your industrial hot oil heater, and fill you in on what to do when it comes to navigating the heater replacement process.

    Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Industrial Hot Oil Heater

    Even heaters designed for long-lasting performance will eventually reach the end of their lifespans. These signs are good indicators that it’s time to initiate the process of upgrading your industrial hot oil heater.

    Decreased Efficiency

    With aging equipment, you’ll likely begin to see a decrease in operating efficiency. If you see a notable dip after your equipment has been steadily decreasing in terms of efficiency, it’s likely time to start considering replacement.

    The good news is that ongoing developments in industrial heating technology means that new equipment is significantly more efficient than equipment that is decades old. You’re likely to upgrade your efficiency when you invest in a new industrial hot oil heater, which can provide you with a sizable return on your investment.

    Undiagnosed Issues

    If you’re experiencing ongoing, undiagnosable issues with your industrial hot oil heater, it’s likely time to initiate the replacement process.

    While attempting repairs may be tempting, if you’re struggling to determine the issue you could end up spending a lot of money on repair work and part replacement that ultimately prove to be ineffective. It’s worth considering replacement from the on-set of undiagnosed issues so you can utilize your budget and resources as wisely as possible.

    It’s also a good idea to start the hot oil heater replacement process BEFORE your equipment fails. While it may seem like a good idea to wait and see if the issues with your existing equipment can be resolved, there are many benefits to replacing your heater before it fails completely or becomes entirely obsolete.

    Unexpected Equipment Failures

    Planned updates, part replacements, and repairs are an important part of ensuring that your industrial hot oil heater lasts as long as possible. If you’re hoping to extend the useful life of your heater, a proactive maintenance strategy is a must.

    However, if you’re repeatedly experiencing unexpected equipment failures that cause unplanned facility shutdowns, it may be nearing time for a hot oil heater replacement at your plant. While it’s an added expense and it will cause a planned facility outage to have the new piece of equipment installed, having a reliable hot oil heater and avoiding ongoing unplanned outages can be hugely advantageous when it comes to profitability and efficiency.

    Safety Issues and Code Violations

    If your hot oil heater is posing safety issues in your plant, or if it no longer satisfies the codes and regulations required in your industry, it’s time to look into replacement. An upgrade may be expensive, but it can be a small price to pay if it prevents a devastating accident or injury, or if it puts your facility back in compliance with industry standards and regulations.

    Difficulty with Parts Replacement & System Compatibility

    If you’re looking to replace industrial heater parts but you’re having a hard time finding parts that are compatible, it may be a good indication that you’re going to have to replace your heater in the near future. Once systems can no longer be serviced or repaired, there aren’t many options other than to find a replacement.

    Similarly, if you’re replacing a piece of equipment that works alongside your industrial hot oil heater but you’re struggling with compatibility, it may be time to upgrade your heater.

    Old Age & Outdated Technology

    This may be an obvious indicator, but it’s one worth mentioning. If your industrial hot oil heater is decades old, it’s likely a good time to consider upgrading. You’re missing out on general technology improvements to industrial heater burners, panels, controllers and other components that simply weren’t available decades ago when your existing heater was designed and manufactured.

    Ultra low NOx burners (9ppm), linkageless burner controls, and upgraded Honeywell controllers and burner management systems (such as the Honeywell Slate, which provides a wide range of communication options to customers PLCs) are just a few of the new features you stand to benefit from if you invest in a new heater.

    Over the past 30 years, controllers, burners and other heater features have come a long way, giving you the ability to improve facility operations by investing in a new heater that’s reliable and up to date.

    Damage

    This is another somewhat obvious sign that an industrial hot oil heater may require replacement, but it’s again worth stating.

    If your industrial heater has sustained damage, depending on the severity of the damage a heater replacement may be in order. Continuing to operate and rely on damaged equipment can pose safety issues and may cause larger problems for your plant in the long run. If you can easily and affordably replace the heater part that was damaged, do so. If the heater has sustained extensive damage or the repair is prohibitively costly, replacing the entire unit may be the better bet.

    Is It Time For a Hot Oil Heater Replacement at Your Facility?

    If your current hot oil heater meets any of the criteria listed above, it may be time to consider a replacement. And when that time comes, we are here to help you!

    At American Heating Company, our hot oil heating experts are here to guide you through the heating equipment purchase process. From helping you to determine your facility’s needs to designing a heater to your exact specifications and delivering it to your door, we have you covered every step of the way.

    Our American-made equipment is designed and manufactured in the USA, and our heaters are built to last for decades.

    Ready to take the first step towards a hot oil heater replacement you can rely on? Give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online to get the conversation started and learn more about our equipment pricing.

    Still wondering whether replacement or repair is the right choice for your facility’s heating equipment? Find out why hot oil heater replacement is often the favorable option. 

    Shopping your options when it comes to a replacement hot oil heater for your facility? Be sure to keep these things in mind as you search for the ideal hot oil heater replacement.

  2. Connect with Us at the RESCHEDULED 22nd Annual NISTM Conference & Trade Show!

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    Please Note: The 22nd annual NISTM Conference has been RESCHEDULED AGAIN due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. This post has been updated as of October 14th, 2020 to reflect the conference’s new dates: January 19th – 21st, 2021. The event will be adhering to CDC Guidelines in order to ensure the safety of all attendees.

    Please refer to the NISTM website for information about the conference, including details about registration and hotel reservations, as this situation continues to unfold. You can find information about the revised schedule of events for the NISTM Conference here.

    About NISTM’s 22nd Annual Conference & Trade Show

    American Heating Company will be attending the 22nd Annual International Aboveground Storage Tank Conference & Trade Show hosted by NISTM.

    This year’s conference, originally scheduled for April 15-17 in Orlando, Florida at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel, was rescheduled for July 27-29 and was postponed again to November 3-5, 2020, but has now been rescheduled for January 19-21, 2020 at the same location.

    For those who had registered – there is no need to register again. Your registration will automatically roll over to the conference’s new dates.

    Now in its 22nd year, this event is designed for those involved with operations, construction, environmental compliance, spill prevention, and management associated with storage tanks. It’s a great opportunity for networking and learning alongside others in the industry, and we’re excited to be attending and exhibiting again this year!

    What to Expect at the 22nd Annual NISTM Conference & Trade Show

    At this comprehensive industry event, conference attendees have the chance to learn from industry experts in a variety of focus areas related to tank management. You’ll hear firsthand about the newest updates in the storage tank industry, plus have the opportunity to attend informational workshops and presentation sessions that will provide you with the insight you need to keep your facility up to date and running smoothly.

    You’ll also have the chance to network and connect with other industry professionals, as well as with service and product/equipment providers at the NISTM trade show. (We’ll be an exhibitor there. Be sure to stop by our booth in the Gatlin Ballroom!)

    This is an industry event you won’t want to miss. You’ll have the chance to get your storage tank questions answered, connect with other professionals in your industry, and scope out your competitors, plus learn about new innovations, equipment and services that could benefit your facility, all in one place!

    International Aboveground Storage Tank Conference & Trade Show Event Details

    There are three major events going on during the NISTM conference weekend.

    NISTM 13th Annual Golf Tournament

    Golfing with your colleagues and others in your industry is a great way to network while having a little fun. This year’s golf tournament was originally slated to take place on April 14, 2020 – the day before the NISTM conference officially begins – at Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Club. It has been rescheduled to coincide with the conference’s new dates and will now be held on January 18, 2021.

    NISTM Conference

    The official conference will take place over the course of three days, January 19 through January 21, 2021. You’ll have the chance to attend a variety of informational and educational sessions hosted by a variety of knowledgeable industry professionals. You can customize your experience by choosing the topics and themes that are most relevant to you and your business.

    NISTM Trade Show

    At the NISTM trade show, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the trade show vendors and exhibitors throughout the two conference days. The trade show was originally slated for April 15th and 16th, but will be adjusted based on the revised dates for the conference as well.

    You can find more information about these NISTM happenings, and get further details about the conference (including registration information), on the NISTM website.

    Connect with American Heating Company at the 2020 NISTM Conference

    Interested in connecting with us while you’re attending this year’s conference and trade show? Feel free to stop by our exhibitor booth at the trade show.

    Planning ahead? Reach out and schedule a meeting with us ahead of time! Just give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online to make an appointment with one of our representatives.

    We hope to see you at this year’s event!

  3. Expansion Joints and Demystifying the Four Most Common Questions

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    Let us demystify the four most common questions when it comes to expansion joints. One of the most misunderstood parts in a shell and tube heat exchanger is the expansion joint installed in place of a shell section (on fixed tube sheet designs) for thermal expansion protection. When designing custom exchangers for our clients, they often have questions and misconceptions regarding their use.

    What does an expansion joint do? How do you know if an expansion joint is needed? What type is best for my exchanger? Is there anything special I need to take care of an expansion joint? Let’s get started.

    What does an expansion joint do?

    Let’s start with a basic understanding of what an expansion joint is intended to do in a heat exchanger.

    Since a heat exchanger’s purpose is to exchange heat from a hot substance on one side of the exchanger (in the shell or in the tubes) with a cold substance on the other side, the materials are often subjected to wide ranges of temperatures. Materials that are heated grow in length, while materials that are cooled will contract. If this temperature change occurs rapidly, or if the temperature variations are large enough, and if there is no allowance for this expansion and contraction, materials in the exchanger could be stressed to the point of failing. This usually results in tubes buckling, or being torn out of the tubesheets, but could also cause buckling in the shell or distortion of nozzle connections.

    All these side effects jeopardize the integrity of the exchanger, potentially making it unsafe to operate.

  4. Plant Shutdown Management: Tips for Planned and Unplanned Facility Outages

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    Plant shutdowns can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they’re planned, sometimes they’re not. Sometimes they’re strategic, sometimes they are unexpected hurdles that your facility has to overcome. Sometimes they are major, and other times they are an inconvenience that’s handled with relative ease.

    Despite all this, one thing is certain. Plant shutdowns will happen. And how they are handled will have an impact on the success of your facility during the shutdown, and in the aftermath.

    So what’s the key to successfully managing a facility shutdown? We have a few tips to help you keep things going as smoothly as possible despite a planned or unplanned pause in facility operations.

    How to Successfully Manage a Plant Shutdown

    As a facility manager, you’ll likely be responsible for managing or facilitating a shutdown at some point during your career. Here are a few ways to prepare yourself – and your facility – for that situation.

    Plan Ahead

    This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s still worth mentioning. Whenever possible, do what you can to plan ahead for a plant shutdown. (Being proactive about plant maintenance can help you to stay ahead of shutdowns. You can learn more about proactive plant maintenance strategies here.)

    If the shutdown is scheduled, put the work in ahead of time to make sure the maintenance and repairs being handled during the planned shutdown can be completed as quickly and efficiently as possible. That means collecting job quotes, hiring contractors, ordering the necessary materials and parts, etc. so that the project can go off without a hitch. You’ll want to avoid any potential delays or setbacks so your plant can get back up and running as scheduled.

    Obviously, if the facility shutdown is not scheduled you’ll have less of an opportunity to plan for it in the months and weeks leading up to it. Though things may come grinding to a halt without much forewarning, there are some steps you can take to prepare for the unexpected well in advance.

    One of the most important steps you can take to keep unexpected plant downtime to a minimum is to implement a spare parts management program. This will help increase the chances that you have a part on hand to handle the repair causing the shutdown, which will help to get the problem solved more efficiently. Another important step you can take is to actively participate in an ongoing industrial heating equipment maintenance program. Routine maintenance will help you to keep your equipment consistently in good working order, and to identify any issues that may cause a shutdown in the future

    Go With The Flow

    Things don’t always go as planned during plant shutdowns, which means some – or perhaps a lot – of flexibility will be necessary.

    If you’re at the helm during the shutdown, do what you can to take things as they come and adjust the plan of action accordingly. This may mean delegating tasks, adjusting project timelines, and making critical decisions that might impact your clients and customers.

    You’ll likely also have a hand in determining what the priorities need to be during the shutdown. Priorities will likely shift and change, so be prepared to adjust.

    Fix Things The Right Way

    Especially in cases of unexpected plant shutdowns, you may be tempted to implement quick fix solutions that will get your facility back up and running as quickly as possible. While these solutions are sometimes the best option, in most cases it’s better in the long run to fix the problem the right way – even if that solution takes longer and results in a longer shutdown in the short term.

    In some cases, this may mean choosing between repairing existing equipment and investing in new equipment. Take time to do the necessary research to make sure you are well equipped with the knowledge to make the right choice for your facility.

    Keep An Eye Out For Future Issues

    Though you may be preoccupied with the issue at hand when a shutdown occurs, it’s always a good idea to be on the lookout for potential issues that may cause problems in the future. While it’s great to do this on a regular basis alongside a maintenance program, a plant shutdown is a great opportunity to do this as well.

    It’s worth noting that there are a number of advantages to replacing equipment, including industrial hot oil heaters, before they fail or become obsolete. You can learn more about key reasons why it’s a good idea to upgrade your heater before it truly fails here.

    Without equipment running, you may be able to take a closer look at things or perform a more thorough analysis. Use the shutdown as an opportunity to take stock of what’s going on in your facility, plan for future repairs, and prepare to make the most of upcoming planned shutdowns.

    It’s also a good idea to closely document any major facility shutdowns. Learn from experience. A well documented shutdown that runs smoothly can be a valuable resource for the future.

    Managing a Facility Shutdown Successfully

    Planning for the possibility of a plant shutdown can certainly be a challenge, but keeping these tips in mind can be immensely helpful when and if things come grinding to a halt.

    Getting ready to press pause at your plant in order to install new equipment? Check out our tips for prepping your facility for an equipment installation.

    Preparing for a shutdown and need a quote for new industrial heating equipment? Request a quote online here, or give us a call at (715) 748-5888.

    Editor’s note: This content was originally published in February 2018 but has been updated as of October 2020.

  5. Heating Equipment Maintenance Strategies: Proactive vs. Reactive Management of Industrial Heater Maintenance, Replacement & More

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    When it comes to managing a facility and all of the equipment that keeps it up and running efficiently, plant managers typically fall into one of two camps: those who are proactive about equipment upkeep and those who are reactive.

    While there is not necessarily one right way to go about this specific aspect of running a facility, there are a handful of pros and cons to each of these two strategies. 

    Here, we explore these two heating equipment maintenance mentalities so you can determine which will work best for you and your facility and decide whether you should switch from one to the other.

    Proactive Plant Maintenance

    What is Proactive Plant Maintenance? 

    Proactive facility maintenance is essentially thinking ahead and taking care of potential issues before they become a problem. It’s anticipating issues that could slow productivity or shut down your facility and addressing them before they become catastrophic. 

    Pros of Proactive Plant Maintenance:

    Proactive equipment maintenance is typically regarded as the better of the two maintenance strategies. This is largely due to the fact that implementing a proactive strategy can result in a number of benefits, including: 

    • Financial Benefits

    Heating equipment repairs and replacements still need to happen in plants that are proactive when it comes to equipment maintenance. However, these repairs and replacements can be planned for and saved for. They won’t need to be expedited or require overtime hours or expensive repair costs. This can save the facility money in the long run.

    • Fewer Equipment Failures

    Equipment issues are often caught early when a proactive plant maintenance plan has been implemented. As a result, facilities that implement proactive strategies typically have fewer catastrophic equipment failures. 

    • Reduced Downtime

    Because issues are typically caught and addressed early, before they become problems that can result in a plant shutdown, facilities that are proactive about maintenance experience reduced downtime. Even if a piece of equipment does ultimately fail, these facilities are at somewhat of an advantage given that the downtime to replace or repair it can typically be planned for rather than completely unexpected.

    • Less Intensive Regular Maintenance Work 

    Once a proactive maintenance program has been implemented, the regular maintenance work that needs to be done is typically less intensive. Addressing issues and general maintenance tasks on a regular schedule – rather than waiting until they become big issues that need major attention – can keep machinery upkeep and repair manageable.

    Cons of Proactive Plant Maintenance: 

    Though there are many pros to adopting a proactive plant maintenance plan, there are a couple of cons that should be considered, including: 

    • Can be Challenging to Implement

    A proactive plant maintenance culture can be difficult to adopt, especially when coming from a reactive strategy. It takes a well-defined proactive strategy and a team willing to get on board with adopting a new regular process for it to be successful. It also requires training, which can be time consuming even though it’s ultimately beneficial.

    • Can be Challenging to Execute

    Reactive maintenance work is often more straightforward to perform. After all, the work that needs to be done is determined by the problem that has arisen. With proactive maintenance, a strategy will need to be developed and followed to prevent problems before they arise. As a result, determining how you’d like to manage preventative maintenance can be a bit more difficult. 

    Reactive Plant Maintenance

    What is Reactive Plant Maintenance? 

    Reactive facility maintenance is basically performing maintenance on an as-needed basis, addressing problems and equipment failures or malfunctions as they come up. 

    Pros of Reactive Plant Maintenance:

    Reactive plant maintenance is typically regarded as less favorable than a proactive strategy, but it does have a few advantages, including: 

    • Ease of Determining What Needs to be Addressed

    When it comes to a reactive maintenance strategy, it’s very easy to determine what will need to be worked on or prioritized. The items your team is working on and addressing will be clear cut based on the problems that have arisen. 

    • Less Intensive on a Regular Basis

    A reactive maintenance culture means that you’re not thinking about equipment upkeep as intensively on a regular basis. This means you can use all of your time to focus on and prioritize other tasks and elements that can help keep your company ahead of the game. That being said, you should be prepared to pause your efforts when an unexpected catastrophic equipment failure of some kind does occur.

    • Often the More Comfortable Maintenance Culture Initially

    Reactive maintenance is the culture that most plants and facilities typically fall into as a default. As a result, it’s often the more comfortable of the two strategies initially.

    Cons of Reactive Plant Maintenance:

    Many facilities prefer a proactive maintenance culture because there are a handful of notable disadvantages to a reactive maintenance strategy, including:

    • More Equipment Failures 

    Because maintenance is not a priority, facilities with reactive maintenance strategies may run into more equipment failures. This means more costly repairs or even replacements when a less expensive and extensive solution could have been utilized  had the problem been caught earlier.

    • Increased Facility Shutdowns and Downtime

    Unpredictable malfunctions can cause shutdowns, which can slow down production and negatively impact profitability. 

    • Increased Stress 

    Because a reactive maintenance strategy can be unpredictable, with repairs and maintenance cropping up at inconvenient times, implementing this type of strategy can add a significant amount of stress and frustration for a facility manager and their staff members. It can also strain client relationships and derail important projects, since facility downtime for repairs and equipment upgrades often won’t be planned for in advance.

    • Increased Expense 

    Costs for extensive repairs, overtime labor, and expedited delivery for replacement parts or new machinery can be hefty – not to mention the cost of losing profits due to unexpected or extended facility downtime. As a result, a reactive facility maintenance strategy is often more costlier than a proactive one. 

    Weighing Your Options: Proactive vs. Reactive Heating Equipment Maintenance

    With heating equipment maintenance and upkeep, facility managers have a choice. They can be proactive, or they can react to issues and equipment failures as they arise. 

    While these two overarching strategies for managing your facility’s heating equipment each have pros and cons and there’s truly no one right way to handle this aspect of plant management, it’s worth noting that we’ve generally seen most facilities thrive with a proactive maintenance plan in place. 

    And while some facility circumstances may dictate which of these two strategies is most feasible, the option to shift the maintenance culture to one that works better almost always exists. It’s important to be aware of and explore the pros and cons of both options so you can develop and adapt a system that works best for your specific facility.

    Interested in changing your facility’s maintenance culture? Here, we review how to establish a healthy, proactive maintenance culture.

    Looking to improve how your facility handles planned and unplanned shutdowns? We offer a handful of tips and suggestions for plant shutdown management here.

    Have further questions about facility maintenance? Looking for help with replacing a piece of heating equipment on a tight timeline? We’re happy to assist. Just give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online to get the conversation started and learn more about how our industrial heating experts can help you keep your plant up and running smoothly.

  6. What is ANSI Code and Why Does It Matter? 

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    When you’re in the market for industrial heating equipment, there are numerous codes and standards you’ll need to be concerned with. You’ll want to be sure you purchase equipment that meets the requirements of your industry, and satisfies safety and environmental standards as well.

    Here, we’ll provide an overview of ANSI code so you have a sense of what it is, the role it plays when it comes to industrial heating equipment, and why it’s a code you should care about when you’re purchasing equipment for your facility.

    What Does ANSI Stand For?

    ANSI is an acronym that stands for the American National Standards Institute. Founded in 1918, this organization regulates standards for products, processes, systems, and services offered in the United States. 

    The ANSI includes members from government agencies, companies, corporations and organizations, and scholars from a variety of academic fields.

    What is the Role of the ANSI?

    By establishing standards for products and services, ANSI works to solidify the position of the US in the global market. Their goal is to ensure that features and performance levels of items created in the US consistently meet specific quality standards. They also play a role in some initiatives and accreditation programs related to environmental conservation.

    Additionally, ANSI recognizes organizations that produce products and train personnel in accordance with their established standards and requirements. They monitor the products and services that they have accredited, and update their specifications as needed. 

    Does ANSI Code Apply to Industrial Heating Equipment?

    The short answer to this question is yes. ANSI code impacts equipment and systems that are used for industrial heating, but it also impacts products, services and processes in a wide variety of other industries and for a broad spectrum of applications as well. 

    In other words, ANSI code is not specific to industrial heating equipment, but it does impact and influence the commercial heating industry.

    Why Does ANSI Code Matter?

    There are a few key reasons why ANSI code is important to consider when it comes to industrial heating equipment.

    Safety & Reliability

    ANSI’s standards ensure that products and processes are tested in a consistent manner and held to consistent standards. This means that ANSI accredited products all meet specific, standardized criteria when it comes to safety, performance, functionality, and more.

    Quality

    With ANSI accredited products, consumers can have a specific understanding of the quality of the item. All accredited products meet the same set of requirements and are described using the same consistent definitions and terms.

    Performance

    Again, because ANSI accredited products have to meet specific standards, consumers will have a clear sense of what can be expected in terms of performance when investing in a piece of equipment that satisfies ANSI’s code requirements.

    ANSI-Accredited Commercial Heating Equipment

    If you’re shopping your options when it comes to heating equipment for your plant or facility, you want to know with confidence that you’re considering only equipment that satisfies the appropriate and required standards for your industry. 

    For many organizations in a wide variety of industries, investing in heating equipment that is ANSI accredited is the way to go.

    Have questions as you’re investigating your industrial heating system options? We’re here to help! Contact us and we’d be happy to assist you and point you in the right direction.

    Looking for some guidance when it comes to understanding which codes and standards are most important for your specific business and application? 

    We’d be happy to discuss that with you as well! The following resources may also be of assistance when it comes to understanding the many codes and standards that impact industries reliant on industrial heating equipment: 

  7. Why Hot Oil Is Better Than Steam for Industrial Heating: The Benefits of Hot Oil Heating Systems

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    In most manufacturing facilities where products and materials are being produced and transformed, some type of process heating is required. In many of these facilities, this heat is produced and distributed through the use of a boiler system.

    Though boilers are among the most common heating equipment when it comes to industrial heating, hot oil heaters are simply a better option. Keep reading to learn why.

    Hot Oil Heating Systems vs. Steam Boilers

    So what makes thermal fluid heating systems the ideal choice when it comes to industrial heating? Here are several key reasons why.

    1. Thermal Fluid Systems Don’t Need to Be Pressurized

    Steam heating systems require some level of pressure in order to function. With hot oil heating systems, all of your equipment is non-pressurized. This decreases the risk of dangerous explosions in your facility and eliminates the necessity of monitoring and regulating system pressure levels continuously.

    2. Hot Oil Does Not Cause Corrosion

    Though steam-based heating systems are popular with some facility managers because water is an affordable heating medium, they are also susceptible to corrosion. Water seems innocent, but in reality, it wears away everything in its path. As a result, steam heating systems need to be carefully monitored for corrosion and repaired if rust or other damage is detected.

    In contrast, hot oil is a lubricant and can run smoothly through a thermal oil heating system without causing corrosion.

    3. Thermal Oil Systems Do Not Require Chemical Regulation

    Because water is a corrosive liquid, when it’s used in steam heating systems it needs to be treated with various chemicals. These chemicals must be carefully monitored and regulated constantly in order to ensure that the system can operate effectively.

    With hot oil boilers, you don’t have to worry about chemical regulation. The thermal heating fluid runs through the system in a loop and requires no chemical regulation.

    4. Hot Oil Boilers Can Operate at Higher Temperatures

    When it comes to efficient heating, operating temperature is very important. Since hot oil has a higher boiling point than water, thermal oil heating systems can operate at higher temperatures.

    Additionally, thermal fluid systems can operate at these higher temperatures without the additional pressure build up you would see with a steam boiler system. All heating equipment will perform better at higher temperatures.

    5. Thermal Heating Fluid Will Not Freeze

    While water can freeze, causing boiler system issues and hazards, thermal heating fluid will not freeze. This eliminates the safety hazards and system operation issues that can be caused by cold temperatures, another benefit of hot oil heating systems.

    6. Industrial Thermal Fluid Systems Typically Do Not Require a Licensed Boiler Operator

    In order to operate a boiler system in your facility, many areas require that you have a licensed boiler operator on staff. If you are implementing a new system, this means you need to hire a new staff member or train an existing staff member in order to comply with regulations.

    With a hot oil heating system, you do not need to add a new staff member to your facility in most cases, saving you an annual full-time salary and resources.

    7. Hot Oil Heating is Safer Than Steam

    Perhaps the most compelling reason you may want to consider a thermal fluid heating system over a steam heating system for your facility is safety. Hot oil heating is safer than heating processes involving steam for a number of reasons.

    Since the system does not require pressurization, the risk of a dangerous explosion is eliminated. Additionally, you won’t run into the dangers caused by steam trap issues, or by freezing steam since hot oil’s freezing point is significantly lower than water’s.

    You can learn more about thermal fluid system safety here.

    8. Hot Oil Heating Systems Require Less Capital Than Steam Systems

    Hot oil heating systems typically require less capital than boiler systems as they are significantly simpler. Boiler system components include boilers, blow down tanks, chemical feed tanks, deaerators, condensate tanks, feed pumps for the boiler, feed pumps for the make-up water, pumps for the chemical feed, steam traps – the list goes on and on.

    Hot oil heating systems require only one pump, a heater, and an expansion tank.

    9. Thermal Oil Systems Are More Efficient

    Steam traps and blow down results in a lot of loss when it comes to steam heating systems. Thermal fluid heating systems operate much more efficiently. With lower operating costs and better process control, an efficient hot oil heating system will save your plant money and valuable resources.

    Read more about the importance of efficient industrial heating equipment.

    Find The Hot Oil Heating System That’s Right for Your Facility

    If you’re looking to replace an existing industrial heating system or implement an entirely new one, consider a thermal fluid heating system. From efficiency and maintenance to safety, these hot oil systems offer a variety of benefits over standard steam boiler systems.

    Ready to learn more about how a thermal fluid heating system could benefit your specific plant or facility? Turn to the experts at Enerquip!

    With decades of experience in the heating industry, we have extensive knowledge of both steam and hot oil heating systems. We can help you make the right choice for your facility so you can feel confident the system you’ve selected is the best for your unique situation.

    Give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online to learn more about hot oil heat can work for your plant!

    Learn More About Industrial Heating Oil Systems

    Interested in finding more information about hot oil heating? These resources are a good place to start:

    Why Replacing Your Industrial Heating System Might Be Better Than Repairing It: Learn about four key reasons why investing in new equipment for your facility is often the better alternative, even if you’re on a budget.

    Factors to Consider When Shopping For an Industrial Heating System: Review our list of the key things to consider as you’re shopping your options for the best heating solution for your industrial facility.

    Why Industrial Hot Oil Heating Systems Should Be More Commonly Used Than Steam Boilers: Find more information about how hot oil systems outperform steam boilers in a variety of industrial applications.

    Serpentine Coil Technology: Learn how Enerquip’s serpentine coil thermal fluid heaters provide optimal efficiency, low maintenance, and long-life.

  8. Industrial Waste Heat Recovery Systems: Why They’re Important and How They Can Benefit Your Facility

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    If you are a plant or facility manager working in an industry that utilizes heat energy, chances are you have probably heard of waste heat recovery. If you don’t already have an industrial waste heat recovery system implemented in your facility, you may be wondering what waste heat recovery is, and whether or not it is appropriate for your organization.

    Here, we’ll discuss it’s benefits, and the top reasons why you should utilize a waste heat recovery system in your facility if you are not doing so already.

  9. Enerquip Partners with CPI Sales, Inc.

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    Enerquip, a Wisconsin company that specializes in a wide variety of shell and tube heat exchangers, recently added CPI Sales, Inc. to its team of Distributors and Manufacturer’s representatives to meet its plans for continued growth.

    Enerquip has been one of the leading providers of heating and cooling equipment for production plants and the OEM’s and system integrators that support them. The company designs and crafts stainless steel and high alloy shell and tube heat exchangers of the highest quality, with delivery lead-times that are half of the industry standard. The size of Enerquip heat exchangers can vary from the length of a loaf of bread to over 48” in diameter.

    CPI Sales field sales engineers work with customers’ plants in a wide variety of industries, including food, beverage, personal care, chemical, pharmaceutical, and semiconductor. CPI Sales, Inc. represents leading worldwide manufacturers in the following main equipment categories: Flow Control, Mixers, Heat Transfer, Water Treatment, Separation and Tanks.

    “We benefit from CPI Sales complimentary equipment lines and broad industry base, which open new doors for our heat exchangers in the Pacific Northwest,” said Ron Herman, Enerquip’s Director of Sales & Marketing.

    Jim Fok, President at CPI Sales says, “We sought out Enerquip for their sanitary exchangers due to their expertise and a strong track record in the sanitary markets, especially food and pharmaceutical. We’ve been pleasantly surprised at their offerings for the industrial markets as well. We are pleased to be aligned with Enerquip as a heat exchanger solution.”

    With the synergies between the companies’ product lines and philosophies, both Enerquip and CPI Sales will be positioned to serve their customers in the Northwest more efficiently, provide better heating and cooling solutions, and provide faster delivery than before.

    About Enerquip, LLC
    For more than 40 years, Enerquip has been a top designer and fabricator of stainless steel and high alloy shell and tube heat exchangers, with a reputation for quality and fast delivery. The company is one of the most trusted in the industry and provides both custom and standard off-the-shelf solutions for heating and cooling applications. Enerquip serves markets such as the pharmaceutical, beverage, brewing, food processing, dairy, paper, chemical, waste water and renewable fuels industries. Learn more at www.Enerquip.com

    About CPI Sales, Inc.

    CPI Sales, Inc. is a provider of sanitary equipment for the food, beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical and personal care industries. They represent premium manufacturers of a broad range of pumps, valves, tanks, fittings, and other manufacturing supply needs. In addition to key components and parts, they also work with customers and suppliers to design and fabricate cost-effective, customized systems to fit specific process and space requirements. Learn more at www.cpi-sales.com

  10. Thermal Fluid Heater FAQs

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    As experts in the industrial heating industry, we field a lot of questions from clients and potential customers about heating equipment in general, as well as the heating systems and system components that we manufacture.

    Thermal fluid heaters are one of our specialties. We are proud to offer hot oil heaters that are highly efficient and built to last for decades. Our unique serpentine coil heater design truly sets us apart, and we’re the only industrial heater company in our industry to offer serpentine radiant coils in our standard thermal fluid heater design.

    Answers to Common Questions About Thermal Fluid Heaters & Hot Oil Heating Systems

    Here, we’ll answer some of the questions we hear most frequently about hot oil heaters so you can be well informed as you explore your options.

    What Are The Advantages of Thermal Fluid Heaters?

    When compared to other industrial heating solutions, thermal fluid heaters provide a significant number of advantages. These advantages include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased efficiency
    • Flexibility
    • Versatility
    • Reduced operating costs
    • Minimal maintenance requirements
    • Fewer staff requirements
    • No need for pressurization
    • No need for chemical regulation

    You can read in more depth about the key advantages of thermal fluid heaters here.

    What Are the Different Ways to Build an Industrial Hot Oil Heater?

    There are essentially two ways to build industrial hot oil heaters. You can build them with helical coils or serpentine coils.

    Helical coil heaters feature coils that are tightly wound in the radiant section of the heater. They transfer heat via convection, but have limited room for expansion, higher film temperatures thus higher levels of fluid degradation, and limited operation at temperatures over 400°F. They can also be challenging to repair when something goes wrong, which is common.

    Serpentine coil heaters feature coils that have space between the tubes, giving them a better radiant heat absorption and are configured for thermal expansion. They are more efficient when it comes to heat transfer, provide longer tube life and a lower level of fluid degradation (lower film temperature), and they are easier to repair. Life of serpentine coils last 2-3 times longer than a helical coil.  Serpentine coil repairs are very rare.

    You can explore in more depth the two ways to build industrial thermal fluid heaters here.

    How Do Serpentine Coils and Helical Coils Differ?

    Helical coils and serpentine coils are structured differently. Helical coils are tightly wound with the coils closely grouped together and stitch welded together. Serpentine coils are built with space between the tubes, which gives them more room for expansion.

    Besides being structured differently, helical coils and serpentine coils vary in terms of efficiency, heat transfer, operating temperature, fluid degradation rate, and more. Generally, serpentine coil heaters are more efficient, provide longer tube life, and offer a lower level of fluid degradation. They also make for easier repairs.

    Most industrial heating equipment manufacturers use helical coils as their standard in the heaters they build. At Enerquip, our standard are serpentine coils.

    You can learn more about the differences between helical coils and serpentine coils here.

    How Do I Choose Appropriate Thermal Fluid for My Hot Oil Heater?

    There are dozens of important factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right thermal fluid for your heating system. These factors include:

    • Operating temperature
    • Pressure requirements
    • Industry
    • Application
    • Local regulations
    • Environmental and efficiency requirements

    Choosing the right thermal heating fluid can make a significant difference for your facility’s operations, so making your selection is a task well worth doing the right way. Check out this resource for more helpful insight about what to consider when selecting thermal fluid for your heating system.

    Looking for additional guidance? We’d be happy to assist you. Just give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online and we’ll point you in the right direction.

    Can a Thermal Fluid Heater Be Used to Replace a Steam Boiler?

    The short answer: yes. Hot oil heaters can often replace steam boilers, though every facility has its own needs. When it’s an option, we usually recommend choosing a thermal fluid heater over a steam boiler for several reasons.

    For starters, thermal fluid systems don’t need to be pressurized, they don’t require chemical treatment, and they’re far less vulnerable to freezing in cold environments. In most cases, they also don’t require a licensed boiler operator to run them.

    On top of that, thermal fluid heaters tend to be more efficient and offer a safer operating experience than steam boilers.

    You can read in more detail about the advantages of hot oil heating over steam boiler heating here.

    Are Thermal Fluid Heaters Called By Any Other Names?

    We typically refer to thermal fluid heaters as ‘thermal fluid heaters’ or ‘hot oil heaters’ but you may also hear them referred to as ‘thermal oil heaters,’ ‘industrial oil heaters,’ or even ‘thermic oil heaters.’

    If you’re shopping your options when it comes to industrial heating equipment, it’s important to be aware that different manufacturers may refer to thermal fluid heaters in different ways.

    Have Additional Questions About Thermal Fluid Heaters?

    Our experts would be happy to answer them!

    With more than 30 years in the industry, we’ve established ourselves as leaders in industrial heating and we’re happy to share our knowledge with those looking to make responsible, informed decisions when it comes to choosing equipment for their facilities.

    Give us a call at (715) 748-5888 or contact us online and we’ll gladly share our insight and help you find the equipment that’s best for you.