Abstract: A method for controlling a heating plant as well as a control system for such a plant. More specifically the invention relates to the control of a heating plant adapted for local heating of surfaces to avoid ice and snow on such surfaces, and in particular controlling street heating plant or point heating plants (for rails), provided with one or several heating elements; so that a low power consumption is obtained. The control system is provided with at least one remotely operated unit (4) adapted to be controlled in such a manner that consumed energy is controlled in dependence of meteorological data representing present and anticipated temperatures and amounts of precipitation.

Abstract: A covering for protecting surfaces in general, which comprises a sheet body that forms an internal supporting frame, to which a layer of self-sealing thermoplastic polymer is connected; the layer forms at least one face of the sheet-like body, the sheet-like body having protrusions for engaging a surface to be covered.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying heated sealants, such as molten polymeric material, to surfaces such as for filling cracks in pavement surfaces. Aspects of the invention include block cutting assembly, heated dispensing hose, and crack filling applicator head. By way of example, the block cutting assembly comprises a ram device for driving sealant blocks against a heated cutting member which severs the blocks to speed liquefaction within the heated sealant chamber. An associated enclosure incorporates a loading door preferably configured for operation in response to the position of the ram device. The heated dispensing hose may comprise a heating element running through the interior of the hose to heat sealants as they pass through the hose. The crack filling applicator head comprises a dispensing tube upon which a sealing chamber is coupled for retaining a quantity of liquid sealant proximal to the pavement surface being filled.

Abstract: Membrane (20) with a metal core (21) for waterproofing and generally protecting structures (80) for housing and infrastructures, consisting of only one or of several components, presenting very high electrical conductivity, entire lengths or parts thereof, thickness and width being constant to obtain, on closure in an electric circuit (92, 93, 97, 98) of all or part of said core (21), transformation of electric energy into thermal energy therefore adding, by an association of thermal and mechanical effects, the advantages of generation of heat to those of protection and waterproofing.

Abstract: Heating devices are formed of a conductive loaded resin-based material. The conductive loaded resin-based material comprises micron conductive powder(s), conductive fiber(s), or a combination of conductive powder and conductive fibers in a base resin host. The ratio of the weight of the conductive powder(s), conductive fiber(s), or a combination of conductive powder and conductive fibers to the weight of the base resin host is between about 0.20 and 0.40. The micron conductive powders are formed from non-metals, such as carbon, graphite, that may also be metallic plated, or the like, or from metals such as stainless steel, nickel, copper, silver, that may also be metallic plated, or the like, or from a combination of non-metal, plated, or in combination with, metal powders. The micron conductor fibers preferably are of nickel plated carbon fiber, stainless steel fiber, copper fiber, silver fiber, or the like.

Abstract: Process for surface and environmental heating of building structures and infrastructures obtained by formation of a thermoelectric layer (210) placed behind the surface finish of walls and especially underneath the flooring of structures, by means of a polymer-bitumen strip with a metal core of extremely high electric conductivity, of a constant section and micrometric thickness, laid in lengths side by side sufficiently spaced for electrical insulation, by the ends of each length being bent back in a double bend (214) at 45°, thus permitting, by closure of said metal core in an electric circuit, transformation of electric energy into thermal energy.

Abstract: An electric floor heating system, comprising an electric floor heating panel and a floor heating material formed by laminating integrally an upper material with a thickness of (d), a heat diffusing material with a thickness of (t), and a lower material, wherein the upper material thickness (d) and the heat diffusing material thickness (t) are set to fulfill relational expression (I):

Abstract: A heated window consisting of at least one rigid pane, at least two current busbars of different polarity placed substantially parallel close to one edge of the heated window at different distances from the edge and linear heating resistors electrically connected thereto, characterized in that the busbars lie sideways to the heating resistors and the heating resistors (2) start from a first current busbar (4) and, passing over the other current busbar (3) while being insulated therefrom, in the direction of the window surface and in at least one loop, return toward the other current busbar (3) and are electrically connected thereto.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying heated sealants, such as molten polymeric material, to surfaces such as for filling cracks in pavement surfaces. Aspects of the invention include block cutting assembly, heated dispensing hose, and crack filling applicator head. By way of example, the block cutting assembly comprises a ram device for driving sealant blocks against a heated cutting member which severs the blocks to speed liquefaction within the heated sealant chamber. An associated enclosure incorporates a loading door preferably configured for operation in response to the position of the ram device. The heated dispensing hose may comprise a heating element running through the interior of the hose to heat sealants as they pass through the hose. The crack filling applicator head comprises a dispensing tube upon which a sealing chamber is coupled for retaining a quantity of liquid sealant proximal to the pavement surface being filled.

Abstract: The process of adhering asphaltic roofing tiles to a roof deck by covering the tiles on the deck with a heat blanket capable of generating a temperature of at least the cure temperature of the tiles thereby sealing the tiles to the deck.

Abstract: In a paver comprising a paving screed and at least one working component which is heated by means of at least one electric heating element H, e.g. a smoothing plate, the heating element H being secured in heat tampering condition at a heating area of the working component, the heating element containing at least one heating coil, the heating element is a plane heating element, the heating coil is a heating conductor which is wound in spirals around plane carrier material, and the peripheral form of the carrier material and/or the winding density or the winding course of the heating conductor is adapted to a predetermined heating picture in the heating area, respectively.

Abstract: A snow and ice melting system for roads including a system of heating coils disposed below an upper surface of a roadway. The system of coils are arranged in a serpentine configuration whereby a majority of a surface area of the roadway is in contact with the heating coils. A system of laser heaters are disposed within side surfaces of curbs of the roadway in a spaced relationship. The laser heaters direct a ray of heat over the upper surface of the roadway. A weather sensitive activation sensor is secured to a top surface of a traffic light. The activation sensor is in communication with the system of heating coils and the system of laser heaters.

Abstract: A heating arrangement for protecting a building eave from build-up of ice and snow: The heating arrangement includes an elongated, heat conductive strip adapted for installation along a building eave and an elongated heating element extending within the strip. The strip is formed to be attached to the building eave, and includes an elongated attachment flange which is secured by a plurality of fasteners. Depending on heating requirements, two or more of the elongated heating elements, spaced from one another, can be employed, and a further heating element can be installed within any rain gutter extending along the building eave.

Abstract: A modular electric heating tile includes a tile body and an electric heating unit. The tile body is made of a material selected from a group consisting of clay and cement, and has two opposite first and second surfaces. The electric heating unit is mounted on the tile body adjacent to the first surface in an enveloped manner.

Abstract: A heating device for heating a surface, in which the surface defines a plurality of predetermined areas. The heating device is electrically connectable to a power source and comprises heating circuit in communication with the surface for communicating heat to the surface. The heating circuit includes a plurality of heaters, each of which covers the respective predetermined areas. The heaters are electrically independent from one another. The alternating circuit is electrically connected to the plurality of heaters and electrically connects them to the power source. The alternating circuit alternately powers the heaters at a selected time interval so as to alternately heat each of the respective predetermined areas of the surface. There is also provided a method of using the heating device to heat the surface.

Abstract: A method of increasing the useful life of heating elements that consist essentially of molybdenum silicide and alloys thereof, wherein the heating elements operate at high temperatures in heat treatment processes and generally rest against the floor and/or the ceiling of a furnace. The heating elements contain aluminum to an extent sufficient to maintain a stable, slowly growing layer of aluminum oxide on the surfaces of the heating elements, and the heating elements are placed in direct abutment with an aluminum oxide brick material.

Abstract: A hidden heat strip for providing heat at the edge of a roof to prevent formation of ice. Each heat strip comprises a plurality of triangular-shaped assemblies having a heat cable inserted from under the assemblies and positioned adjacent to a notched front panel. Support clips extend from a bottom portion and a vented top panel is disposed above the heat cable. Spaced-apart reinforcement ribs are located between side panels of the assemblies to support shingles and prevent sagging. The heat strip is placed between rows of shingles and is not easily observed from the ground level.

Abstract: A floor heating bendable, electrically conductive, thermoplastic mat having at least two electrodes arranged along each side edge of the mat. The mat includes a material composition whose volume resistivity increases substantially with an increase of temperature of the material composition below 30° C. The material composition comprises a semicrystalline polymer and an electrically conductive filler material. The polymer has a crystalline melting point which exceeds a normal working temperature of the mat but is below 99° C. and whose softening temperature (Vicat) is in a range of 45-70° C. The mat is self regulating regarding temperature and power for floor heating.

Abstract: An adhesive attachment assembly is provided for mounting an attachment member such as a threaded stud or the like onto a substrate, wherein the attachment assembly includes a heat source for rapidly curing a selected adhesive bonding agent. The adhesive attachment assembly includes a first attachment component defining a base surface for receiving the curable bonding agent thereon, and a second attachment component adapted for temporary connection to the substrate. Upon pressed mounting of the first attachment component with bonding agent thereon onto the substrate, the second attachment component is movable into temporary engagement with the substrate, and a spring member reacts between the first and second attachment components to apply a positive force urging the first attachment component toward the substrate for the duration of the bonding agent cure time. A heat source is carried by the first attachment component for activating and/or rapidly curing the bonding agent.

Abstract: A heating system for railroad switches or other movable railroad structures that substantially eliminates protruding heater elements that may be damaged. The heater elements may cast into, enclosed within or received within recesses of a tie (including a metal or concrete tie), rail or other component. In one implementation, inductive heating is used to directly heat the rail, tie or other structure.

Abstract: Heater system includes flexible heater modules connected by keyed quick connect connectors and connector cables. The heater modules include a heater element connected to two power wires, and an integrated ground layer. The connectors and connector cables connect heater elements together in an electrically parallel configuration and connect the ground layers together. The heater system design is independent of application and suitable for many construction applications.

Abstract: A heating arrangement for a gutter protector, where the gutter protector extends over at least a portion of a rain gutter. The heating arrangement includes an elongated protective cap extending along at least a portion of the gutter protector and an elongated heating element extending within the protective cap. The protective cap is formed to be attached to the gutter protector, either on top of the gutter protector or underneath the gutter protector, in either instance within a channel formed in the elongated protective cap. Depending on heating requirements, two or more of the elongated heating elements, spaced from one another, can be employed, and a further elongated heating element can be installed within the rain gutter.

Abstract: A system for preventing and clearing gutter ice dams includes a plurality of wire holding assemblies, each assembly having a base for attachment to a gutter and a length-adjustable arm for contact with a roof adjacent the gutter. The arm is rotatably and pivotally mounted to the base. The system includes a PTCR heating cable that is held in a desired position by the wire holding assembly arms. The system includes roof and gutter temperature sensors and a moisture sensor. The heating cable is connected to the control unit, the control having a mode selector switch for controlling operation of the cable. In an automatic mode, the heating cable is energized if a roof temperature is greater than a predetermined temperature and a gutter temperature is less than a predetermined temperature. In a timer mode, the heating cable is energized for a selectable time.

Abstract: A heating mat electrically connectable to a power source provided with a conductive prong connected to an electrical polarity defines a mat peripheral edge. The heating mat includes a conductor mounted therein and extending towards a connecting section located adjacent the mat peripheral edge. A resistive element electrically coupled to the conductor transforms the electrical energy into thermal energy. A connecting recess extends into the heating mat adjacent the connecting section and defines a prong receiving section to receive the conductive prong so that when the conductive prong is inserted into the prong receiving section the conductive prong is electrically coupled to the conductor. The prong receiving section defines a prong section base wall.

Abstract: A device for melting snow and/or ice on a surface is provided. The device includes a heat coil that is adapted to allow a fluid to pass therethrough, a pump and a solar power source. The heat coil has an upper portion positioned at first distance from surface, and a lower portion that is positioned at a second distance from surface and underneath the ground. The pump coupled between the solar power source and the heat coil. The solar power source provides energy to the pump to move the fluid between the lower and upper portions of the heat coil. The fluid gains heat from the ground as it moves through the lower portion of the heat coil and uses that heat to raise the temperature of the surface to melt snow and/or ice that comes into contact therewith.

Abstract: Heater system includes flexible heater modules connected by keyed quick connect connectors and connector cables. The heater modules include a heater element connected to two power wires, and an integrated ground layer. The connectors and connector cables connect heater elements together in an electrically parallel configuration and connect the ground layers together. The heater system design is independent of application and suitable for many construction applications.

Abstract: A container for storing hazardous material and a method of enclosing hazardous material in a concrete container body defining a storage space and having an access opening for introducing the hazardous material in the storage space comprises fluid-tight sealing of the storage space by introducing a closure body of concrete in the opening subsequent to the introduction of the hazardous material. The closure body is formed by casting concrete in the access opening subsequent to the introduction of the hazardous material in the storage space and allowing the concrete to harden while supplying heat to the portion of the concrete container body surrounding the access opening.

Abstract: Heating apparatus comprising a body of conducting material having oppositely directed surfaces extending between the edges, a channel formed one of the surfaces and defined by a pair of walls upstanding from the one surface, and a cover cooperating with the walls to define an enclosed passageway to receive a heating cable.

Abstract: One or more dispensing conveyances (1) have outlet apertures (2) or conveying and dispensing heated water to surfaces of roofs (3) and other structural surfaces selectively when ice and snow is being accumulated or has accumulated thereon. The water is heated with an electric-resistance (7, 10) or optionally with a fuel-flame heater (8, 11), which can be a tank heater or a tankless geyser water heater. Electric-resistance members can be positioned inside of heat-resistant tubular conveyances proximate the outlet apertures. A programmable control unit (18) can be included for programmable heat, flow rate and flow time.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing the formation of ice on a substrate exposed to an outdoor environment or for preventing condensation of moisture in a cabinet for electrical equipment includes a sensor for measuring the temperature of the ambient air around the substrate or around or in the cabinet and calculates the rate of change of the temperature of the ambient air. The apparatus further includes a sensor for measuring the temperature of the substrate or of a surface of or inside the cabinet. A heater supplies heat to the substrate or cabinet in response to pre-arranged conditions dependent on the outputs of the sensors and on the calculated rate of change of the temperature of the ambient air. The apparatus for preventing condensation may optionally omit the sensor for measuring the temperature of a surface of or inside the cabinet.

Abstract: A manufacture or cell (20) formed by a closed case (21) of fabric material (23) in which a multiple number of meltable plastic pellets (24) are disposed and with which an electrical line (25), here in the form of lines (25-1, 25-2), combine in an interwoven assembly. Heat is applied to the pellets (24) via the electrical line (25) to melt them into a mass of substance that solidifies into a solid wall or thickness while concurrently adhering to the fabric material (23) so that the resulting structure is in a cast condition, transformed from its flexible state prior to application of the heat to pellets (24) into a wall-like member. The cell (20) is useful in application of constructing a habitable temporary living housing or shelter for victims arising out of a catastrophe.

Abstract: The invention relates to a floor heating device comprising an electric heating cable extending backwards and forwards underneath a floor surface to be heated. Metal rectangular or square panels are provided with channels extending in parallel in the direction of deposition of the panels. Each metal panel is fitted on its reverse side with an insulating panel in a sandwich construction so that the channels of the metal panel penetrate into the insulating panel material. The assembled panels are deposited on the support of the floor in juxtaposed relationship in the longitudinal and transverse directions such that each channel of one metal panel continues into another channel formed in the adjacent metal panel at the end edge sides of the first metal panel. The heating cable is arranged inside the channels so as to extend from one metal panel to the next backwards and forwards across the floor.

Abstract: A heated platform is formed by one or more elongated boards or planks, each having an elongated lower surface with a pair of spaced-apart longitudinally extending channels defined therein. An elongated heat conducting metal beam is operatively mounted in heat conducting relation in each channel. The beam defines a central, wide, inner channel opening in one direction and a pair of narrower side cable channels one on each side of the central channel and opening in a direction opposite to the direction of opening of the inner channel. An electric heating cable is operatively mounted in heat conducting relation in the beam cable channels for supplying heat to the beam for transfer to the board or plank. The heated planks or boards are useful particularly for forming decks and seating for hot tubs, as well as for walkways and stairs.

Abstract: An aircraft floor heating panel is constructed for mechanical strength and to meet special heating requirements next to a door in an aircraft. The panel has a lightweight core. Each surface of the core is first covered with at least one carbon-fiber reinforced composite layer for protection against deterioration. Each carbon fiber layer in turn is covered by a glass fiber reinforced composite layer for mechanical strength. A foil heater is arranged inside the composite panel coextensive with at least a portion of the panel area. A heat distributing metal plate covers the panel as an upper step-on surface. A heat insulating layer is bonded to the panel opposite the heat distributing metal plate. A triple heat control is provided for an increased safety against fire hazards.

Abstract: A device for floor heating comprising a bendable, electrically conductive, thermoplastic mat (1), adapted for division into lengths and mounting of these lengths side by side underneath a floor. The device is provided with at least two electrodes (4) arranged along each side edge (3) of the mat (1) each, to which electrodes (4) a current is connectable. The current is conducted through the device, which heats up and emits heat. The mat (1) comprises a material composition whose volume resistivity increases with the increase of the temperature of the material composition. The electrodes (4) are threadlike and the material composition comprises a semicrystalline polymer, whose crystalline melting point exceeds the normal working temperature of the device but are below 99° C. and whose softening temperature (Vicat) is in the range of 45-70° C., and an electrically conductive filler material.

Abstract: A snow melting apparatus 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of heating wires 10, a pair of fixing members 20, 20 and rod-shaped auxiliary fixing members 30. The plurality of heating wires 10 are arranged substantially in parallel with each other at predetermined intervals in a direction perpendicular to its axial direction. The fixing members fix and hold the plurality heating wires at end portions thereof. The rod-shaped auxiliary fixing member holds the plurality of heating wires at intermediate positions thereof. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a snow melting apparatus which holds a certain flexing capability, which causes no damage to the joining force between a base layer and a surface layer of a driveway, and which does not fail completely even if the apparatus partially breaks at a single position therealong.

Abstract: A staircase construction is provided which may incorporate an integral heating assembly. The heating assembly is mounted within stair tread covers or repair members which may also be used to repair a damaged staircase. The staircase construction may further incorporate stair tread members of various configurations for attachment to standard stringers.

Abstract: A snow-melting apparatus prevents ice dams on an outside surface of a roof of a building. An outer edge section of the roof extends over and beyond an outside wall of the building in an outward direction. A heat conduction device includes a substantially planar body portion formed of a substantially thermally conductive material and having a first side and a second side. The second side is opposite the first side. The first side has a coating with a high emissivity. The first side transfers heat to an inside surface of at least the outer edge section of the roof. A heat source is attached to the body portion of the heat conduction device.

Abstract: A deicing apparatus comprises an integral stack of layers inseparably joined in intimate mutual contact forming a flexible mat. The layers include a first layer to be placed into contact with a surface to be deiced or to be maintained clear of ice, having electrical insulation properties, a second layer of resistance heating, electrically conductive material formed in an electrical conducting path, a third layer of electrically insulating material, a forth heat energy reflective layer of metallic foil, and a fifth layer of thermally insulative and physically tough material. A device for applying an electrical current to the second layer to produce heat energy is provided.

Abstract: A snow melting apparatus 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of heating wires 10, a pair of fixing members 20, 20 and rod-shaped auxiliary fixing members 30. The plurality of heating wires 10 are arranged substantially in parallel with each other at predetermined intervals in a director perpendicular to its axial direction. The fixing members fix and hold the plurality heating wires at end portions thereof. The rod-shaped auxiliary fixing member holds the plurality of heating wires at intermediate positions thereof. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a snow melting apparatus which holds a certain flexing capability, which causes no damage to the joining force between a base layer and a surface layer of a driveway, and which does not fail completely even if the apparatus partially breaks at a single position therealong.

Abstract: A heating door comprises a frame. A first panel is mounted to the frame. A second panel is mounted to the frame. A sheet is disposed between the first and second panels. The sheet defines an inner section between the first panel and the sheet and an outer section between the second panel and the sheet. At least one heating mechanism is arranged in at least one of the first and the second section.

Abstract: The invention relates to a floor heating device comprising an electric heating cable extending backwards and forwards underneath a floor surface to be heated. Metal rectangular or square panels are provided with channels extending in parallel in the direction of deposition of the panels. Each metal panel is fitted on its reverse side with an insulating panel in a sandwich construction so that the channels of the metal panel penetrate into the insulating panel material. The assembled panels are deposited on the support of the floor in juxtaposed relationship in the longitudinal and transverse directions such that each channel of one metal panel continues into another channel formed in the adjacent metal panel at the end edge sides of the first metal panel. The heating cable is arranged inside the channels so as to extend from one metal panel to the next backwards and forwards across the floor.

Abstract: A heating assembly is provided which includes a metal stair tread member having an upper horizontal surface and a bottom surface for mounting on a stair tread of a staircase. A strip heating element is attached to the bottom surface of the stair tread member. A first covering of synthetic material encapsulates the horizontal surface of the metal stair tread member and the strip heating element on bottom surface of the stair tread member. The strip heating element is contiguous with the bottom surface and is attached thereto by a gasket extending around the peripheral edge of the strip heating element. A thermostat is electrically connected to the strip heater and to a power source for selectively supplying electric current to the strip heater in response to changes ambient temperatures. A temperature sensing element is in electrical communication with the thermostat wherein the thermostat selectively supplies the current to the strip heating element.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating member with a resistive surface (1) that comprises at least one resistive layer (10), two conductive layers (20, 30) as well as isolation layers (40, 50) respectively arranged between said layers (10, 20, 30). The first conductive layer (30) is made in the form of a neutral conductor, while the second conductive layer (30) is made in the form of a protection conductor. In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the resistive layer (10) comprises respectively a contact electrode (11, 12) on both sides in the edge area, while the first and second conductive layers (20, 30) each include a contact electrode (21, 31) in the edge area. The contact electrodes (11, 12, 21, 31) protrude longitudinally and on at least one side above their respective layers (10, 20, 30). A contact electrode (12) of the first resistive layer (10) coincides with the contact electrode (31) of the first conductive layer (30).

Abstract: An electrical resistive heating system having a Nitinol heater element in the form of wire, rod strip or tube, is flexible, ductile, tough aid chemically non-reactive. The element has connectors at each end for leads from a controller that controls the flow of current through the heater element from a source of electrical power. The Nitinol heater element is treated to have an electrically insulating surface that is also hard and chemically non-reactive, so the heater element can be put in intimate contact with the materials or substrate to be heated without shorting or electrical shock to people or equipment. The controller uses temperature data feedback from a separate temperature sensor such as a thermocouple, or uses the resistance of heater element itself as a temperature sensor, since the resistance of the Nitinol changes with temperature in a predictable way.

Abstract: A device for heating an enclosed space of the type used for housing small animals, including at least one heating element, at least one connector for electrically connecting the heating element with an electrical power supply, and a protective cover formed of highly thermally conductive material, such that the protective cover is shaped to transfer heat to the enclosed space without attaining a surface temperature harmful on contact to animals

Abstract: A system for transforming electrical energy into thermal energy, already diffused has a flat support, and a substantially continuous heat-emitting surface formed by one or more electrically conducting continuous strips, each having a constant thickness, laid flat in parallel lengths and spaced for electrical insulation, the strips being arranged on the flat support and mechanically connected to it.

Abstract: An electric heating device includes a flexible resistor ribbon, a plurality of sections of electroconductive coating attached to the resistor ribbon at preset intervals, and connector contacts coupled to the resistor ribbon for enabling connection of a power source to the resistor ribbon. The resistor ribbon has a high specific impedance. The flexible resistor ribbon is attached to a rigid or flexible flat base panel for incorporation into a building as a floor, wall or ceiling panel. Layers of electric insulation are attached to the base so as to sandwich the flexible resistor ribbon. Where the resistor ribbon is bent back on itself, for example, to form a snaking configuration, a strip of two-sided adhesive tape is attached to the layers of electric insulation and to the ribbon at multiple spaced points.

Abstract: A heated roof valley device for melting ice and snow accumulating on a roof valley including a generally “V”-shaped lower casing and a corresponding “V”-shaped cover positioned in spaced-apart relation to the lower casing. An electrical heating element positioned in the space between the lower casing and the cover, and a moisture sealing device for preventing moisture in the roof valley from entering the space between the lower casing and the cover.

Abstract: A heated roof valley device for melting ice and snow accumulating on a roof valley including a generally “V”-shaped lower casing and a corresponding “V”-shaped cover positioned in spaced-apart relation to the lower casing. An electrical heating element positioned in the space between the lower casing and the cover, and a moisture sealing device for preventing moisture in the roof valley from entering the space between the lower casing and the cover.