Raychem Im h57754 Misurfacesnowmeltingcom en - tcm432 55954 PDF

MI Heating Cable System
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL FOR

SURFACE SNOW MELTING
THERMAl MANAGEMENT WWW.PENTAIRTHERMAl.COM

Important Safeguards and Warnings
WARNING: FIRE AND SHOCK HAZARD.
Raychem snow melting systems must be installed
correctly to ensure proper operation and to prevent
shock and fire. Read these important warnings and
carefully follow all the installation instructions.
• To avoid damage to the heating cables, do not energize

cables until they have been completely embedded and
the installation has been completed.
• To minimize the danger of fire from sustained

electrical arcing if the heating cable is damaged
or improperly installed, and to comply with the
requirements of Thermal Management, agency
certifications, and national electrical codes, ground-
fault equipment protection must be used on each
heating cable branch circuit. Arcing may not be
stopped by conventional circuit protection.
• Heating cables must be spaced at least 1/2 in (1.3 cm)

from any combustible surface.
• Approvals and performance of the surface snow

melting systems are based on the use of approved
components and accessories.
• Cable terminations must be kept dry before, during,

and after installation.
• Damaged heating cable can cause electrical arcing or

fire. Damaged heating cable or terminations must be
repaired or replaced. Contact factory for assistance.
• If the heating cable sheath is stainless steel, the

cable must be grounded, but must not be used as the
grounding means.
• Reinforcing rod, mesh or other materials used for

the support of, or on which the heating cables are
installed, must be grounded in accordance with CSA
Standard C22.1, Section 10 or the National Electrical
Code as applicable.
• Megohmmeters operate at high voltage. This voltage

is hazardous and possibly lethal. Read and follow all
instructions included with the instrument you are
using.
ii Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01
Table of Contents
1 General Information
1.1 Use of the Manual
1
1
1.2 MI Applications 2
1.3 Safety Guidelines 2
1.4 Electrical Codes 2
1.5 Approvals 2
1.6 Warranty 3
1.7 Heating Cable Construction 3
1.8 Heating Cable Identification 4
1.9 Heating Cable Catalog Number Decoder 6
2 General Installation Guidelines

2.1 Before You Start
7
7
2.2 Materials Specifications 8
2.3 Heating Cable Storage 8
2.4 Tools Required 8
2.5 Cable Testing Guidelines 8
2.6 Heating Cable Handling 9
2.7 Junction Boxes and Electrical Enclosures 11
2.8 Protecting the Heating Cable 11
2.9 Check Materials Received 11
2.10 Review the Design 12
2.11 Slab Temperature Sensor 18
2.12 Waterproofing Membranes 19
2.13 Drainage and Trench Drains 20
2.14 Visual Inspection 20
3 Heating Cable Installation

3.1 Heating Cables Installed in Concrete
22
22
3.2 Heating Cables Installed in Asphalt 31
3.3 Heating Cables Installed in Mastic Asphalt 35
3.4 Heating Cables Installed Under Brick
and Concrete Pavers 40
3.5 Concrete and Asphalt Wheel Tracks 44
3.6 Concrete Stairs 46
4 Accessory Installation
4.1 Junction Boxes
51
51
4.2 Slab Thermostat Installation 61
Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01 iii

5 Control, Monitoring and Power Distribution
5.1 Manual On/Off Control
63
63
5.2 Slab Sensing Thermostat 63
5.3 Automatic Snow Controller 63
6 Power Supply and Electrical Protection

6.1 Voltage Rating
65
65
6.2 Circuit Breaker Sizing 65
6.3 Ground-Fault Protection 66
6.4 Junction Box Wiring 68
6.5 Typical Wiring Diagrams 68
7 Commissioning and Preventive Maintenance

7.1 System Tests
76
76
7.2 Preventive Maintenance 77
8 Test Procedures
8.1 Visual Inspection
79
79
8.2 Insulation Resistance Test – Test 1 79
8.3 Continuity (Resistance) Test – Test 2 80
8.4 Insulation Resistance and Continuity
Test Procedure 80
8.5 Power Check 82
8.6 Fault Location Testing 85
9 Troubleshooting Guide 86
10 Installation and Inspection Records 90
iv Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01
1
General Information
1.1 Use of the Manual

This manual covers the installation of Raychem MI
heating cables for surface snow melting in concrete,
asphalt, and sand or limestone screenings under
paving stones*. The manual covers general heating
cable installation procedures and specific installation
details and provides information on available
accessories. The manual also provides information
on controls, testing, and periodic maintenance.
This manual assumes that a proper snow melting

or anti-icing design has been completed according
to Thermal Management's recommendations.
Only the applications described in this manual are
approved by Thermal Management for MI Surface
Snow Melting Systems and only when used with
approved accessories. The instructions in this
manual and the installation instructions included
with the control systems, power distribution systems,
and accessories must be followed for the Thermal
Management warranty to apply.
For design assistance, technical support, or

information regarding other applications not shown
here, please contact your Thermal Management
representative or contact us directly.
Thermal Management
7433 Harwin Drive
Houston, TX 77036
USA
Tel +1.800.545.6258
Tel +1.650.216.1526
Fax +1.800.527.5703
Fax +1.650.474.7711
[email protected]
www.pentairthermal.com
Important: For the Thermal Management

warranty and agency approvals to apply, the
instructions that are included in this manual and
product packages must be followed.
* Special permission for paver snow melting is required

from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01 1
1
General Information
1.2 MI Applications
Surface Snow Melting
Surface snow melting systems prevent the
accumulation of snow on ramps, slabs, driveways,
sidewalks, platform scales, and stairs under typical
snow conditions.
Anti-Icing
Anti-icing systems keep the surface temperature
above freezing to prevent ice formation.
1.3 Safety Guidelines

As with any electrical equipment, the safety and
reliability of any system depends on the quality of the
products selected and the manner in which they are
installed and maintained. Incorrect design, handling,
installation, or maintenance of any of the system
components could damage the snow melting system
and may result in inadequate snow melting, electric
shock, or fire. To minimize these risks and to ensure
that the system performs reliably, read and carefully
follow the information, warnings, and instructions in
this guide.
Pay special attention to the following:
Important instructions are marked Important
Warnings are marked WARNING
1.4 Electrical Codes

Article 426 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and
Section 62 of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC)
govern the installation of fixed outdoor surface snow
melting and de-icing systems. All installations must
be in compliance with these and any other applicable
national and local codes.
1.5 Approvals
Raychem MI heating cables are approved for use in
nonhazardous and hazardous locations.
2 Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01
1
General Information
For a complete list of approvals, refer to the product

data sheets available on our web site at
www.pentairthermal.com or contact your Thermal
Management representative.
• H57796 – MI Heating Cable for Surface Snow
Melting data sheet
• H56990 – MI Heating Cable for Commercial and
Industrial Applications data sheet
Important: Types SUA and SUB heating cables are

approved for use in nonhazardous areas only.
1.6 Warranty
Thermal Management’ standard limited warranty
applies to Raychem Snow Melting systems.
An extension of the limited warranty period to ten

(10) years from the date of installation is available,
except for the control and distribution systems,
if a properly completed online warranty form is
submitted within thirty (30) days from the date of
installation. You can access the complete warranty
on our web site at www.pentairthermal.com
1.7 Heating Cable Construction

Raychem mineral insulated (MI) heating cables are
comprised of one or two conductors surrounded
by magnesium oxide insulation and a solid copper
or Alloy 825 sheath. Copper sheath cables are
covered with an extruded low-smoke zero-halogen
(LSZH) jacket that protects the copper sheath from
corrosive elements that can exist in surface snow
melting applications. All of the cables include both
a heated section (heated length) and a nonheating
cold lead section. These sections are joined at the
hot/cold joint where the heating element is spliced
into larger bus wires. A final transition at the end
of the cold lead section provides an environmental
seal and tails for the electrical connection. The
heating cables are available as factory-terminated
configurations shown in Table 1.
1
General Information
Table 1: MI Heating Cable Configurations

MI cable Number of
design conductors Configuration
Heated length Cold lead length
A Single
conductor
(SUA) (61 series) Hot/cold NPT threaded
joint connector
B Single Cold lead length Heated length Cold lead length

conductor
(SUB) (61 series) Hot/cold NPT threaded
joint connector
D Dual Heated length Cold lead length

conductor
(32 & 62
series) Hot/cold NPT threaded
joint connector
1.8 Heating Cable Identification

Each MI heating cable is supplied with an
identification tag on which the heating cable catalog
number is permanently printed. In addition to its
identification purposes, the catalog number provides
information regarding the heating cable length,
power output, and operating voltage. Also printed
on the tag are the serial number and temperature
code. If the cable has been designed for a hazardous
location, the area classification is printed in the
“Haz. Locations” section of the tag (for custom
engineered cables only).
Important: If the metal tag is removed during cold

lead installation, it must be reinstalled on the cold lead
within 3 in (7.5 cm) of the end of the cold lead/power
connections.
Figure 1 shows a typical identification tag supplied

with pre-engineered SUA/SUB heating cables
(SUA1 through SUB22). These heating cables are
designed to be used for several different applications
depending on the supply voltage selected. In Figure
2, a typical identification tag supplied with custom
engineered heating cables is shown.
1
General Information
Figure 1: Typical SUA/SUB MI heating cable

identification tag (front)
Important: Several SUA and SUB series of heating

cables are designed for use on either 208, 240, or 277
volts when used in surface snow melting applications.
For these cables, the catalog number printed on the
tag will show only the highest voltage to which the
cable may be connected, and the highest wattage
produced. The wattages produced at other supply
voltages are shown in the area below the catalog
number and across from the “SNOW MELTING-W”
heading (see Figure 1).
Figure 2: Typical custom engineered heating cable

identification tag (front)
1
General Information
1.9 Heating Cable Catalog Number Decoder
The heating cable catalog number may be broken

out as follows:
B/61RE4300-RD/320/8000/277/15/R30A/Y/N12
Gland size
(N12 = 1/2 in NPT)
Cold joint ‘Y’ is standard
for copper sheath
heating cables
Cold joint ‘X’ is standard
for Alloy 825 sheath
heating cables
Cold lead code
Cold lead length (in feet)
(4.6M = 4.6 meters)
Heating cable voltage
Heating cable wattage
Heated cable length
(in feet)
(97.6M = 97.6 meters)
Heating cable reference
Heating cable design
configuration (A, B, D)
Figure 3: MI heating cable catalog number
2
General Installation Guidelines
The guidelines in Section 2 are provided to assist

the installer throughout the installation process and
should be reviewed before the installation begins.
2.1 Before You Start

The Raychem snow melting system is an engineered
system that has been designed for your application.
To ensure a smooth, efficient installation and start-
up, obtain all the relevant engineering information
before commencing work. Contact the general con-
tractor, owner, or owner’s representative to obtain a
statement of the project design basis, project specifi-
cations, and the heating cable layout drawings.
It is important that the heating cable depth and

spacing be maintained for proper operation of the
system for all concrete, asphalt and paver instal-
lations. For sloping ramps, such as a ramp to an
underground parking garage, serpentine the cables
across the width of the ramp to improve snow melt-
ing effectiveness.
To ensure that the installation proceeds smoothly

and meets the design objectives, the following ques-
tions should be answered.
• What are the exact dimensions of the area to be
heated?
• What is the supply voltage and phase?
• Are the heating cables being installed in concrete
or asphalt, or if paver area, in limestone screen-
ings or sand?
• Where are the control joints, expansion joints, and
construction joints located?
• What is the heating cable spacing?
• Is a waterproof membrane being used?
• What is the depth of burial of the heating cable?
• Where are the junction boxes located?
• Is there adequate drainage for melted snow and
ice?
Important: Fuel storage areas and aircraft han-

gar doors are classified as hazardous areas. Heating
cables installed in these areas must be approved for
the area classification.
2
2.2 Materials Specifications

Install the heating cables in concrete, asphalt, or
other materials that have been designed to handle
the expected load and environmental conditions, and
for long term structural stability. The quality of the
granular base materials, concrete, and asphalt must
conform to generally accepted standards and speci-
fications set by the American Society for Testing
and Materials (ASTM) and/or Canadian Standards
Association (CSA). Site preparation and material
selection should be done under the direction of the
Soil Consultant, Engineer, Architect, or Landscape
Architect.
2.3 Heating Cable Storage

• Store heating cables in a clean, dry location and
protect from mechanical damage. Temperature
range: –40°F to 140°F (–40°C to 60°C).
• Store heating cables in their shipping container
until ready to install.
2.4 Tools Required

The following tools are recommended for installing
MI heating cables:
• Pliers
• 1000 Vdc megohmmeter
• Multimeter
• Large adjustable wrench
• Torque wrench
• Pay-off reel (to uncoil long cables)
2.5 Cable Testing Guidelines

Insulation resistance (IR) testing is recommended
at four stages during the installation process and as
part of regularly scheduled maintenance. Further
details on IR testing can be found in Section 8.
• When received – minimum 100 MΩ
• After the cables have been installed – minimum
20 MΩ
• Continuously during placement of concrete,
asphalt, etc. – minimum 20 MΩ
2
• Prior to initial start-up (commissioning) –

minimum 20 MΩ
• As part of the regular system inspection
• After any maintenance or repair work
2.6 Heating Cable Handling

Avoid damage to the MI heating cable as follows:
Important: Do not energize the heating cables

before they have been completely embedded and the
installation has been completed.
• Use a pay-off reel to uncoil heating cable dur-

ing installation; do not pull cable out into a spiral
(Figure 4).
Right Wrong
Figure 4: Unreeling/uncoiling cable
• Do not alter cable length.

• Avoid damaging heating cables by cutting or
crushing (Figure 5).
Figure 5: Avoid cutting and crushing the heating cable
• Do not install cables if the temperature is below

–4°F (–20°C) for UL, and –22°F (–30°C) for CSA.
Important: Do not install so that heating cables are

crossed, overlapped, or grouped (Figure 6). Grouped
heating cables can cause localized overheating with a
risk of fire or cable failure.
2
Figure 6: Do not cross, overlap, or group heating

cables
• Do not repeatedly bend and straighten the cable.

• Do not install heating cable in contact with insu-
lating materials.
• Install heating cable at the recommended spacing
to ensure correct watt density.
• Use a plank to tip wheelbarrow on.
• Handle the hot/cold joint carefully. Support the
joint on both sides when moving and positioning
the cold lead.
• Position hot/cold joints 6 in (15 cm) in from edge
of snow melted area and spaced at least 6 in
(15 cm) apart from each other (do not bunch hot/
cold joints – see Figure 7).
Right Wrong Wrong

hot/cold joints hot/cold joints hot/cold joints
6 in (15 cm) apart installed on bunched
and 6 in (15 cm) slab edge
from slab edge
Figure 7: Positioning hot/cold joints
• During installation, protect tails from breaking

where they emerge from brass pot by taping over
tails and pot with electrical tape.
• Do not bend the heating cable or cold lead within
6 in (15 cm) of a splice, the hot/cold joint, or the
end cap.
• Do not bend cable to an inside radius less than
6 times the outside diameter of the cable.
• Do not space runs of heating cable closer than
3 in (7.5 cm) together.
2
• Do not use sharp objects such as shovels, rakes,

etc. when installing the cable (Figure 8).
Figure 8: Avoid damage by not using shovels or rakes
2.7 Junction Boxes and Electrical Enclosures

• Junction boxes and enclosures used for electrical
connections to the heating cables must be listed
and approved for the environment in which they
are installed.
• Junction boxes should be mounted indoors or
above grade when possible. For electrical connec-
tions made outdoors at grade level, use a hand-
hole type grade mounted enclosure.
• Keep covers on junction boxes to prevent moisture
from entering them.
2.8 Protecting the Heating Cable

On many projects, there is a delay between instal-
lation of the heating cables and placement of the
topping course (concrete, asphalt, limestone screen-
ings/sand). If there is any delay at all, take the fol-
lowing precautions to protect the installation until
the heating cables can be completely covered.
• Do not energize the heating cables
• Mechanically protect the heating cables so that
they cannot be damaged by being walked on, run
over, painted, sandblasted, burned, welded, or cut.
2.9 Check Materials Received

Review the project specifications, drawings, and
schedules and compare the list of materials to the
catalog numbers of heating cables and components
received to confirm that proper materials are on site.
The heating cable catalog number, voltage, wattage,
and length are printed on the metal tag attached to
the cold lead.
2
• Ensure that the heating cable voltage rating is

suitable for the power supply voltage available.
• Inspect the heating cable and components for in-
transit damage.
2.10 Review the Design

Hold a project coordination meeting. Review the
design at this meeting and ensure that the cables
supplied meet the design requirements and conform
to the watt density (watts per square foot/watts per
square meter) requirements for the project at the
specified cable spacing. This can be verified in con-
junction with the MI Surface Snow Melting Design
Guide (H57045).
Review the installation steps in Section 3 for the

particular application as several trades may be
involved in the system installation. Review Section 4
on accessory installation including the location of all
junction boxes. During the meeting, discuss the role
of each trade and the contractor.
Spacing and watt density may be confirmed as

follows:
English
Cable Spacing (in) = Heated Area (ft2) X 12

Heating Cable Length (ft)
Watt Density (W/ft2) = Heating Cable Wattage (W)

Heated Area (ft2)
Metric
Cable Spacing (cm) = Heated Area (m2) X 100

Heating Cable Length (m)
Watt Density (W/m2) = Heating Cable Wattage (W)

Heated Area (m2)
2
For three-phase supply voltages, the total area is

generally divided into multiples of three equal sub-
sections, allowing for installation of a single cable in
each subsection. Heating cables of the same length
and wattage, installed in each subsection, will pro-
vide a balanced electrical load. It may not be possi-
ble to use a balanced electrical load for small areas,
therefore one or two heating cables, single-phase
connected, must be used.
Ensure that the cold lead length is sufficient to reach

the junction box. The standard cold lead length for
pre-engineered (SUB) cables is 15 ft (4.6 m), but
heating cables may have been custom designed
using longer cold leads. Plan the location of all
junction boxes and supply points so that they are
located within reach of the heating cable cold leads.
Typical junction box installation details are shown in
Section 4.
The location of all joints in the ramp or slab should

be recorded on the layout drawing. Plan the general
layout of the heating cables to avoid crossing control
and expansion joints. In some cases, the placement
of these joints may have to be relocated in order to
divide the area equally since the quantity of heat-
ing cables supplied may have been based on equal
subsection areas. If necessary, control joints can
be crossed using one of the two methods shown in
Figure 9. Crossing expansion joints should be avoid-
ed, but if this is not possible, use the method shown
in Figure 10.
Types of Joints
Control joints are intended to control where the slab
will crack. Their exact location is determined by the
concrete installers before the concrete is poured.
Because of the reinforcement in the base slab, there
is rarely a shearing action caused by differential
vertical movement between the concrete on either
side of the crack. As a precautionary measure, how-
ever, either of the two methods of crossing control
joints shown in Figure 9 should be used. Minimize
the number of times the joint is crossed as shown in
Figure 9. When installing cables using the two-pour
2
method, control joints must be placed in both the

base slab and the surface slab.
WARNING: Use caution when saw cutting the

control joints to avoid damaging the heating cables.
Consult with the electrical contractor or cable
installer before cutting or drilling to find out cable
depth.
2
1 x 1 x 12 in
(2.5 x 2.5 x 30 cm)
angle iron filled Heating cable
with RTV or silicone
rubber caulk
Angle iron
Base slab Control joints

Well-drained base (cut into both bottom
and top slabs for two
Nonmetallic Hot/cold joints pour installations)
conduit
Cold leads
Control joint Concrete
Heating cable secured

to rebar with plastic
tie wraps
Steel rebar
Figure 9: Crossing control joints
Construction joints are joints that occur when the

concrete pour is going to stop but will resume at
a later date. Therefore, their location may not be
known beforehand. However, the reinforcement
is left protruding out of the first pour so that it
enters the next pour and therefore shearing action
2
rarely occurs due to differential vertical movement

between the concrete on either side of the joint. As
a precautionary measure, either of the two methods
of crossing control joints shown in Figure 9 should
be used.
Expansion joints are placed where a concrete slab

abuts some structure, such as a building, a slab, or
a foundation, etc. Because the reinforcement does
not cross expansion joints, differential movement
will occur between the slab and the adjoining struc-
ture. Avoid crossing expansion joints with the heat-
ing cable. If this is not possible, expansion joints can
be crossed using a sand filled metal box as shown in
Figure 10.
Metal Heating
box cable
Expansion
joint
Heating
cable
Concrete slab
Well drained 6 in x 6 in x 4 in
gravel base (15 cm x 15 cm x 10 cm)
metal box filled with sand
Figure 10: Crossing expansion joints
Refer to the installation instructions in Section 3 for

your specific application. This section gives details
on the minimum and maximum concrete or asphalt
cover required over the heating cables and maxi-
mum paver thickness, cable testing requirements
during installation, and other specific installation
details.
2
The heating cable should be securely fastened in

place every 3 to 4 ft (90 to 122 cm) to maintain the
proper spacing and depth below the finished sur-
face. Where the rebar is 2 to 3 in (5 to 7.5 cm) below
the finished surface and the rebar spacing does
not exceed 12 in (30 cm), the cable can be fastened
directly to the rebar using plastic tie wraps. When
the rebar spacing exceeds 12 in (30 cm), the heat-
ing cables should be fastened to, and supported, on
square wire mesh as shown in Figure 11.
Figure 11: Supporting heating cable when rebar

spacing exceeds 12 in (30 cm)
When the heating cables are fastened to a solid

base, such as a two-pour concrete or asphalt instal-
lation, use prepunched strapping spaced 3 to 4 ft (90
to 122 cm) apart to maintain the cable spacing. The
tabs on the strapping should be bent backwards over
the cable as shown in Figure 12.
Tab – bend
Prepunched Heating cable backwards over
strapping cable so smooth
edge holds cable
(sharp edge up)
Figure 12: Method of bending tabs on prepunched

strapping
2
2.11 Slab Temperature Sensor

To prevent the heating cable from being energized
during warm weather and for improved energy effi-
ciency, use a separate slab sensing thermostat or
the integral temperature sensor supplied with the
automatic snow melting control panel. The tem-
perature sensor should be installed in metal conduit
secured between two runs of heating cable. Do not
allow the conduit to touch the heating cable. Cap
the buried end of the conduit so that it is watertight.
Ensure that the sensor can fit past all bends in the
conduit prior to installation of the conduit. The con-
duit should be long enough to extend out to approxi-
mately the middle of the area being heated.
If the slab temperature sensor is integral to the

snow melting controller or control panel, the sen-
sor should be installed in minimum 1/2 in (1.3 cm)
conduit secured between two runs of heating cable
(see Section 3), but as an alternative, a short piece of
flexible conduit may be connected to the pavement
mounted sensor, installed midway between two runs
of cable as shown in Figure 13.
2
3/4 in (1.9 cm) rigid conduit Pavement mounted snow and

to pavement sensor ice sensor installed between
two runs of heating cable
Heating
cable
Cap end of
flexible conduit
3/4 in (1.9 cm) flexible steel conduit for
installation of slab temperature sensor
(installed between 2 runs of cable)
Figure 13: Alternative slab temperature sensor

installation
2.12 Waterproofing Membranes

Certain precautions must be observed when install-
ing heating cables on slabs that use waterproofing
membranes.
• If it is necessary to penetrate the mem-
brane, follow the membrane manufacturer’s
recommendations.
• Do not install the heating cables directly on top
of the membrane. Cables must be attached to a
mesh and elevated at least 1/2 in (1.3 cm) above
the membrane surface while maintaining the rec-
ommended thickness of covering over the cables.
Attach the cables to the mesh using plastic tie
wraps (do not use wire).
• The structural engineer should be consulted
to ensure that the top placement of concrete
is designed to handle the stresses imposed by
vehicular traffic (additional reinforcing may be
required).
2
2.13 Drainage and Trench Drains

Concrete trench drains are typically heated using a
separate heating cable embedded in the concrete
base of the trench drain. The heating cable is usually
connected to a separate electrical circuit and termi-
nated in a separate junction box.
The cable installation generally consists of two or

more runs of cable run back and forth along the
length of the trench drain. Follow the installation
instructions in Section 3.1 for installing the heating
cables in concrete.
Important: For trench drains made of composite

materials, contact Thermal Management technical
support.

A visual inspection of the Raychem snow melting
system should be made before placement of the
concrete, asphalt, or limestone screenings/sand to
ensure proper installation of the system.
• Verify that there is no mechanical damage to the
heating cables (cuts, breaks, burns, scrapes, etc.).
• Verify proper heating cable spacing and depth for
the application.
• Verify proper heating cable fastening method (no
wire).
• If crossing control or expansion joints could not be
avoided, ensure that control joints are crossed as
shown in Figure 9 and expansion joints crossed as
shown in Figure 10.
• Verify that the cold leads are protected with non-
metallic conduit where they emerge from the
heated slab.
• Verify that the hot/cold joints are 6 in (15 cm)
in from the edge of snow melted area, are not
bunched together, and spaced at least 6 in (15 cm)
apart from each other (see Figure 7).
• Verify that the junction boxes are properly
installed per manufacturer’s instructions and the
details in Section 4.
2
WARNING: Damaged heating cable can cause

arcing or fire. Do not energize damaged heating
cable; repair or replace it.
For installation assistance or technical support,

please contact your Thermal Management represen-
tative or call us directly at (800) 545-6258.
3
Heating Cable Installation
This section provides instructions for installing the

heating cables in concrete, asphalt, mastic asphalt,
and for brick and concrete paver applications. The
system being installed should have already been
designed using the MI Surface Snow Melting Design
Guide (H57045). Read and follow these instructions
to ensure that the system performs reliably and as
intended.
• Section 3.1 covers heating cable installation in
concrete
asphalt
mastic asphalt
• Section 3.4 covers heating cable installation for
brick and concrete paver areas
concrete and asphalt wheel tracks
concrete stairs
3.1 Heating Cables Installed in Concrete

These instructions show how to install MI snow
melting heating cables for single-pour or two-pour
concrete installations. In single-pour installations,
the cables are attached to the reinforcing mesh
or rebar and covered with a single concrete pour.
In a two-pour installation, the heating cables are
attached to a reinforced concrete base pour that has
been allowed to set and then covered with a second
concrete pour.
Review and understand the technical requirements

in Section 2 prior to installing the heating cables.
Follow the appropriate instructions in each step,
where shown, for a single-pour or two-pour installa-
tion. Where a step does not differentiate between a
single-pour or two-pour installation, the instructions
are common to both.
3
Important: Reinforcement is necessary to ensure

that the concrete is structurally sound. Concrete that
cracks, crumbles, or settles can damage the heating
cable. The reinforcement must be adequately sup-
ported so that it is not disturbed by the installation.
It is important that the heating cable depth in the
concrete be maintained for proper operation of the
system.
1. Single-pour: Mark the location of control and/
or expansion joints on the edge forms and on
the heating cable layout drawings. Refer to
Section 2.1 for details and recommendations
on placing and crossing control and expansion
joints.
Two-pour: Cut control joints into the base slab
at the required intervals, usually 20 ft (6.1 m)
intervals or less in any direction (this will usu-
ally depend on the number of heating cables
being installed). Mark the location of control
and/or expansion joints on the edge forms and
on the heating cable layout drawings so that the
upper control joints can be cut into the second
concrete pour at the correct locations. Cross
control joints as shown in Section 2.10. Do not
cross expansion joints.
Important: In two-pour installations it
is desirable to make the base slab and top-
ping course truly monolithic since the majority
of recorded cable damage is a result of slabs
becoming delaminated and shifting. The surface
of the base slab must be properly cleaned and
prepared to allow the topping pour to bond to the
base slab. Use an appropriate method for proper
bonding or consult with the structural engineer.
2. Install the junction boxes. For single conductor

cables, the cable layout should begin and end
at or close to the junction box to allow the cold
leads to be fed back to the junction box. Section
4 shows several typical installation methods for
junction boxes.
3. Single-pour: If supporting cable on the rein-
forcement, ensure that the concrete thickness
over the heating cable will be 2 in (5 cm) mini-
mum to 3 in (7.5 cm) maximum; otherwise,
3
the cable must be supported on mesh elevated

above the reinforcement. If using fiber reinforced
concrete, the heating cable must be supported
on a mesh such that the concrete thickness
over the cable will be 2 in (5 cm) minimum to
3 in (7.5 cm) maximum. Refer to Section 2.1 and
Figure 14 for further details.
Important: If a herringbone pattern is to be

cut into the concrete surface (Figure 16), adjust
the depths of the cable supports (see Step 10 for
details).
Important: The NEC allows 1-1/2 in (3.8 cm)

minimum covering over cables, however 2 in (5
cm) minimum is recommended to help prevent
damage to the heating cable by ensuring that it
will be fully embedded in the concrete in case the
concrete spalls. In Canada, the CEC requires 2 in
(5 cm) minimum concrete cover over the cables.
Two-pour: Install prepunched strapping at 3 to

4 ft (0.9 to 1.2 m) intervals with additional runs,
where required, to hold cable loops securely.
Fasten the strapping in place using an appropri-
ate fastening method (see Figure 15).

cut into the concrete surface (Figure 16), ensure
that the minimum concrete cover over the heating
cables is maintained (see Step 10 for details).
Important: If a waterproofing membrane has

been placed over the base slab, the heating cables
must be installed on a reinforcing mesh elevated
not less than 1/2 in (1.3 cm) above the membrane
surface. Use plastic tie wraps to secure the cable
to the mesh (do not use wire).
4. Single-pour: Lay out the heating cable in a

serpentine pattern on top of the reinforcement/
mesh and fasten in place with plastic tie wraps
(do not use wire), at the predetermined spacing,
ensuring that the watt density is as specified
in the design requirements (see Section 2.1).
Typical cable spacing ranges between 3 in
3
(7.5 cm) minimum to 10 in (25 cm) maximum on

centers. For sloping ramps, such as a ramp to
an underground parking garage, serpentine the
cables across the width of the ramp to improve
snow melting effectiveness. Stay at least 6 in
(15 cm) from edges and outer walls (see Figure
14). Refer to Section 2.1 if crossing control and
expansion joints.

cut into the concrete surface (Figure 16), follow
the guidelines in Step 10 when laying out the heat-
ing cable.
Important: The heating cable spacing may

have to be adjusted to ensure uniform coverage
over the area to be heated.
Cold leads protected with 1-1/2 in (3.8 cm)

minimum nonmetallic conduit
where they emerge from slab
2 in (5 cm) minimum to 3 in
Slab sensing thermostat (7.5 cm) maximum thickness
(not required if snow concrete topping over heating
melting controller includes cable
a slab temperature sensor)
Junction Cable 6 in (15 cm)
Conduit for slab in from edge unless
box
temperature sensor curbs used
Terminate cold lead

cable in junction box Reinforcement
located above slab Fasten cable to
level to prevent mesh or rebar
moisture entering box with plastic tie
wraps
Hot/cold joint
Structurally sound well-drained
Concrete pour designed base designed to handle expected
to withstand all anticipated load and environmental conditions
stresses without cracking
Figure 14: Single-pour concrete
3
Two-pour: Lay out the heating cable in a serpen-

tine pattern and fasten the cable to the prepunched
strapping (or mesh if a waterproofing membrane
was installed), at the predetermined spacing, ensur-
ing the watt density is as specified in the design
requirements (see Section 2.10). It is recommended
that the tabs on the prepunched strapping be bent
backwards over the cable as shown in Figure 12.
Typical cable spacing ranges between 3 in (7.5 cm)
minimum to 10 in (25 cm) maximum on centers. For
sloping ramps, such as a ramp to an underground
parking garage, serpentine the cables across the
width of the ramp to improve snow melting effec-
tiveness. Stay at least 6 in (15 cm) from edges and
outer walls (see Figure 15 for details). Refer to
Section 2.10 if crossing control joints.
Important: If a herringbone pattern is to be cut

into the concrete surface (Figure 16), follow the guide-
lines in Step 10 when laying out the heating cable.
Important: The heating cable spacing may have to

be adjusted to ensure uniform coverage over the area
to be heated.
3

where they emerge from slab 3 in (7.5 cm) thickness
Slab sensing thermostat concrete topping to be
(not required if snow poured as soon as
melting controller includes possible after base pour
Cable 6 in (15 cm)
Junction Conduit for slab in from edge unless
box temperature sensor curbs used
Terminate cold lead

cable in junction box
located above slab Prepunched steel
level to prevent strapping securely
moisture entering box fastened to base
to hold cable
Hot/cold joint Concrete base pour designed to withstand
all anticipated stresses without cracking.
Structurally sound well- Reinforcement may be required. Base slab
drained base designed to must be properly prepared to allow proper
handle expected load and bonding of the topping pour
environmental conditions
Figure 15: Two-pour concrete
5. Install the hot/cold joints so that they are at least

6 in (15 cm) in from the edge of the slab, ensur-
ing that they will be completely embedded in the
concrete (see Section 2.6). Protect the cold leads
with nonmetallic conduit where they emerge
from the slab (see Figure 14 and Figure 15 and
Section 4 for details).
6. Install the conduit for the slab temperature sen-
sor (see Section 2.11 for details).
Important: Do not install the temperature sensor

at this time.
7. Visually inspect the heating cables, cold leads,
and junction boxes (see Section 2.14) and
record the results in the Surface Snow Melting
Installation Record in Section 10.
3
8. Before the concrete is poured, check the insula-

tion resistance of all heating cables to verify that
the cables were not damaged during installa-
tion. Details on testing can be found in Section 8.
Minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc.
Record the results of the tests in the Surface
Snow Melting Installation Record in Section 10.
9. Single-pour: Pour the concrete and ensure
that it is thoroughly consolidated with a high
frequency vibrator. Continuously check the insu-
lation resistance of the heating cables to verify
that the cables are not damaged during the con-
crete pour – minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at
1000 Vdc. Ensure that the concrete cover over
the heating cables is a minimum thickness of
2 in (5 cm) to 3 in (7.5 cm) maximum (Figure 14).
Ensure that the concrete depth over the heating
cables is maintained if using a herringbone pat-
tern (see Step 10).
Important: Take precautions to protect the

heating cable during the concrete pour. Do not use
sharp tools such as rakes, shovels, etc. that might
damage the heating cable. Do not strike the heat-
ing cable with tools, walk on the heating cable,
or do anything else that will damage the heating
cable.
Important: If a cable is damaged during the

concrete pour, the insulation resistance will imme-
diately decrease. The pour should be stopped and
a small wooden box built around the damaged sec-
tion. Pouring can then continue and repairs made
after the concrete sets up.
Two-pour: Pour a 3 in (7.5 cm) thick concrete
topping over the heating cables and ensure that
it is thoroughly consolidated with a high frequen-
cy vibrator. Continuously check the insulation
resistance of the heating cables to verify that
the cables are not damaged during the concrete
pour – minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000
Vdc. The concrete cover over the heating cables
must be structurally sound and must properly
adhere to the base slab to prevent delamina-
tion between the slabs.Ensure that the concrete
3
depth over the heating cables is maintained if

using a herringbone pattern (see Step 10).
Important: Take precautions to protect the heat-

ing cable during the concrete pour. Do not use sharp
tools such as rakes, shovels, etc. that might damage
the heating cable. Do not strike the heating cable with
tools, walk on the heating cable, or do anything else
that will damage the heating cable.
Important: If the cable is damaged during the con-

crete pour, the insulation resistance will immediately
decrease. The pour should be stopped and a small
wooden box built around the damaged section. Pouring
can then continue and repairs made after the concrete
sets up.
10. If a herringbone pattern will be cut into the con-

crete surface, observe the following:
–– Install the heating cables as shown in Figure
16. Ensure that each heating cable does not
cross the center herringbone cut more than
two times. This will prevent cable damage due
to cracking along the center herringbone cut,
the area most likely to crack.
–– Ensure that the minimum concrete cover is
maintained over the cables – the thickness
of concrete from the bottom of the herring-
bone cut to the top of the cables should not
be less than 2 inches and must not exceed
3 in (7.5 cm). The level of the reinforcement/
mesh may have to be adjusted to maintain the
required concrete thickness over the cables.
3
Angle iron filled with

RTV/silicone rubber caulk
protecting heating cable
where it crosses center
herringbone cut
Center herringbone
Herringbone cut
cuts
Trench
drain e
Slop
Concrete
ramp
Cold
leads
Lay out heating cable
in each half of ramp
so that heating cable
does not cross center Nonmetallic
herringbone cut more conduit
than two times
Figure 16: Recommended cable layout when

herringbone pattern will be cut into the concrete
surface
11. Allow the concrete to cure following the specifi-

cations in the contract documents.
Important: Use caution when saw cutting the

control joints to avoid damaging the heating cables.
Consult with the electrical contractor or cable installer
before cutting or drilling to find out cable depth.
12. Do not energize the heating cables during the

curing period. Do not allow traffic on the new
completed surface until adequate stability
has been attained and the material has cured
sufficiently.
13. Ensure drainage will be adequate for run-off of
melted snow and ice.
14. Connect the cold leads to the junction box.
15. The slab temperature sensor can be installed at
any time after the concrete installation has been
completed. Refer to Section 4 for details.
3
3.2 Heating Cables Installed in Asphalt

These instructions show how to install MI snow
melting heating cables for asphalt areas. Heating
cables may be installed directly on an asphalt base.
When asphalt will be installed on a reinforced con-
crete base, a layer of asphalt 1 in (2.5 cm) thick must
be placed on the concrete base prior to laying out
the heating cables.

Important: Ensure that the sub-base has been

properly prepared (see Section 2.2). Concrete and
asphalt installations must be designed to accommo-
date the expected load and environmental conditions
and provide long term structural stability.
1. Asphalt base: Place the asphalt base course

and allow to set. The depth of the asphalt base
course and the grade of asphalt used must be
designed to handle the expected load and envi-
ronmental conditions and to provide long-term
structural stability.
Concrete base: Clean the concrete base slab.
The surface of the base slab must be properly
cleaned and prepared to allow the asphalt to
bond to the base slab. Use an appropriate meth-
od for proper bonding or consult with the struc-
tural engineer. Next, place a layer of asphalt 1 in
(2.5 cm) thick over the well cleaned concrete
base prior to laying out the cables (see Figure
17). Do not install the heating cables directly on
the concrete base.
3
Minimum 1 in (2.5 cm)

thickness asphalt layer
designed for long-term
structural stability
Structurally sound well- Concrete base pour designed to withstand

drained base designed to all anticipated stresses without cracking.
handle expected load and Reinforcement may be required. Base slab
environmental conditions must be properly prepared to allow proper
bonding of the topping pour
Figure 17: Asphalt installation with concrete base
2. Asphalt installations do not require expansion

joints. However, isolation joint material should
be placed where the slab will abut other struc-
tures, such as building walls.
3. Install the junction boxes. For single conduc-
tor cables, the cable layout should begin and
end at or close to the junction box to allow the
cold leads to be fed back to the junction box.
Section 4 shows several typical installation
methods for junction boxes.
4. Install prepunched strapping at 3 to 4 ft (0.9
to 1.2 m) intervals, with additional runs where
required, to hold cable loops securely (see
Figure 18). Anchor the strapping to the asphalt
base using an appropriate fastening method.
5. Lay out the heating cable in a serpentine pattern
and fasten the cable to the prepunched strap-
ping, at the predetermined spacing, ensuring the
watt density is as specified in the design require-
ments (see Section 2.10). It is recommended that
the tabs on the prepunched strapping be bent
backwards over the cable as shown in Figure
12 as the sharp edges can cut into the jacket
3
when the hot asphalt is placed. Typical cable

spacing ranges between 3 in (7.5 cm) minimum
to 6 in (15 cm) maximum on centers. For slop-
ing ramps, such as a ramp to an underground
parking garage, serpentine the cables across
the width of the ramp to improve snow melting
effectiveness. Stay at least 6 in (15 cm) from
edges and outer walls (see Figure 18 for details).


Slab sensing thermostat Asphalt wear course,
(not required if snow 2 in (5 cm) minimum
melting controller includes to 3 in (7.5 cm) maximum
a slab temperature sensor) thickness after rolling
Conduit for slab Cable 6 in (15 cm)

Junction in from edge unless
box temperature sensor
curbs used
Terminate cold lead

cable in junction box Prepunched steel
located above slab strapping securely
level to prevent fastened to base
moisture entering box to hold cable
Minimum 2 in (5 cm) thickness asphalt base

Hot/cold joint
or 1 in (2.5 cm) asphalt layer on concrete base
Structurally sound well- designed to withstand the expected load and
drained base designed to environmental conditions
handle expected load and
Figure 18: Asphalt installation
3
6. Install hot/cold joints so that they are at least

6 in (15 cm) in from the edge of the paved area,
ensuring that they will be completely embed-
ded in the asphalt (see Section 2.6). Protect the
cold leads with nonmetallic conduit where they
emerge from the asphalt (see Figure 18 and
Important: Do not install the temperature

sensor at this time.
8. Visually inspect the heating cables, cold leads, and
junction boxes (see Section 2.14) and record the
results in the Surface Snow Melting Installation
Record in Section 10.
9. Before the asphalt is placed, check the insula-
tion. Details on testing can be found in Section
8. Minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc.
10. Place a layer of asphalt at least 1/2 in (1.3 cm)
thick over the cables by hand, and roll with a
roller of approximately 1-1/2 ton size. This will
protect the heating cables from damage by tools
or paving equipment during placement of the
wear course. Continuously check the insulation
resistance of the heating cables to verify that the
cables are not damaged during placement of the
asphalt – minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at
1000 Vdc.
Important: Do not dump the asphalt in a pile

over a small area of cables and spread out. The
LSZH jacket may be damaged from the concentrat-
ed heat of the asphalt. Take precautions to protect
the heating cable during the asphalt placement.
Do not use sharp tools such as rakes, shovels, etc.
that might damage the heating cable. Do not strike
the heating cable with tools, walk on the heating
cable, or do anything else that will damage the
heating cable.
3
Important: If a cable is damaged during

placement of the asphalt, the insulation resistance
will immediately decrease. The asphalt placement
should be stopped and a small wooden box built
around the damaged section. Placement can then
continue and repairs made after the asphalt sets
up.
11. Place the wear course. The wear course, includ-

ing the 1/2 in (1.3 cm) of asphalt placed by hand,
must be at least 2 in (5 cm) thick after rolling
and must not exceed 3 in (7.5 cm). The wear
course must be of a grade of asphalt designed
to handle the expected load and environmental
conditions. If the wear course is machine laid,
use pneumatic tired equipment only.
asphalt cooling period. Do not allow traffic on
the new completed surface until adequate sta-
bility has been attained and the material has
cooled sufficiently (refer to contract documents).
15. The slab temperature sensor can be installed
at any time after placement of the asphalt wear
course. Refer to Section 4 for details.
3.3 Heating Cables Installed in Mastic Asphalt

The instructions following show how to install MI
surface snow melting heating cables on a new or
existing concrete base with a mastic asphalt topping.

properly prepared (see Section 2.2). Concrete and
asphalt installations must be designed to accommo-
date the expected load and environmental conditions
and provide long term structural stability.
3
1. Clean the concrete base slab. The surface of the

base slab must be properly cleaned and pre-
pared to allow the mastic asphalt to bond to the
Important: Mastic asphalt installations do not

require expansion joints. However, isolation joint
material should be placed where the slab will abut
other structures, such as building walls.
Important: If using a waterproofing mem-

brane, such as for elevated ramps, prepare the
base slab following the details provided in the con-
tract documents.
2. Install the junction boxes. For single conductor

cables, the cable layout should begin and end
at or close to the junction box to allow the cold
leads to be fed back to the junction box. Section
4 shows several typical installation methods for
junction boxes.
For a long-lasting ramp, ensure that the mastic

asphalt ramp is installed as shown in the cross-
section in Figure 19. Place a 3/8 in (1 cm) thick
base coat of hot mastic asphalt and allow to set.
3
1-1/2 x 3 in (3.8 x 7.5 cm)

expanded (diamond) mesh
over bedding coat 3/4 in (2 cm) hot mastic
wear coat with a nonskid finish
1/2 in (1.3 cm)

Structurally Clean Heating 3/8 in bedding coat
sound well- concrete cable (1 cm) over heating
drained base surface base coat cables
Figure 19: Cross-section showing layers in mastic

asphalt ramp

to 1.2 m) intervals, with additional runs where
Figure 20). Anchor the strapping to the asphalt
base using an appropriate fastening method.
ping, at the predetermined spacing, ensuring the
watt density is as specified in the design require-
ments (see Section 2.10). It is recommended that
the tabs on the prepunched strapping be bent
backwards over the cable as shown in Figure 12
as the sharp edges can cut into the jacket when
the hot mastic asphalt is placed. Typical cable
3

edges and outer walls (see Figure 20 for details).


Slab sensing thermostat 3/4 in (2 cm) top coat of hot
(not required if snow mastic asphalt traffic wearing
melting controller surface with a skid-resistant
includes a slab finish
temperature sensor)
Cable 6 in (15 cm)
Junction Conduit for slab in from edge unless
box temperature sensor curbs used
1/2 in (1.3 cm)

Terminate cold lead bedding coat over
cable in junction heating cables
box located above
slab level to 1-1/2 x 3 in (3.8 x 7.5 cm)
prevent moisture expanded (diamond) mesh
entering box laid on top of bedding coat
Hot/cold joint 3/8 in (1 cm) base coat
Prepunched steel strapping Concrete base pour designed to withstand all
securely fastened to base anticipated stresses without cracking.
to hold cableReinforcement may be required. Base slab
Structurally sound well-drained must be properly cleaned and prepared to
base designed to handle allow asphalt topping course to bond
expected load and
Figure 20: Mastic asphalt with concrete base
3
5. Install hot/cold joints so that they are at least

6 in (15 cm) in from the edge of the paved area,
ded in the asphalt (see Section 2.6). Protect the
cold leads with nonmetallic conduit where they
emerge from the asphalt (see Figure 20 and

7. Visually inspect the heating cables, cold leads,
and junction boxes (see Section 2.14) and
record the results in the Surface Snow Melting
8. Before the mastic asphalt is placed, check the
insulation resistance of all heating cables to
verify that the cables were not damaged dur-
ing installation. Details on testing can be found
in Section 8. Minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ
at 1000 Vdc. Record the results of the tests in
the Surface Snow Melting Installation Record in
Section 10.
9. Place a 1/2 in (1.3 cm) thick bedding course of
mastic asphalt over the heating cables being
careful not to damage the cables. Continuously
check the insulation resistance of the heating
cables to verify that the cables are not damaged
during placement of the mastic asphalt – mini-
mum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc.
Important: Do not dump the mastic asphalt

in a pile over a small area of cables and spread
out. The lSZH jacket may be damaged from the
concentrated heat of the asphalt. Take precautions
to protect the heating cable during the asphalt
placement. Do not use sharp tools such as rakes,
shovels, etc. that might damage the heating cable.
Do not strike the heating cable with tools, walk
on the heating cable, or do anything else that will
damage the heating cable.
3
Important: If a cable is damaged during

placement of the mastic asphalt, the insulation
resistance will immediately decrease. The asphalt
placement should be stopped and a small wooden
box built around the damaged section. Placement
can then continue and repairs made after the
asphalt sets up.
10. Place 8 ft x 4 ft (2.44 m x 1.22 m) sheets of
expanded (diamond) mesh over the entire sur-
face, ensuring that the edges overlap by 3 in
(7.5 cm); edges of sheets must not just butt
against each other.
11. Apply a 3/4 in (2 cm) thick wear course of hot
process mastic asphalt and finish to produce a
skid-resistant surface.
mastic asphalt cooling period. Do not allow traf-
fic on the new completed surface until adequate
stability has been attained and the material has
cooled sufficiently (refer to contract documents).
15. The slab temperature sensor can be installed at
any time after placement of the mastic asphalt
wear course. Refer to Section 4 for details.
3.4 Heating Cables Installed Under Brick and

Concrete Pavers
snow melting heating cables in brick and concrete
paver applications. Review and understand the tech-
nical requirements in Section 2 prior to installing the
heating cables.

properly prepared (see Section 2.2). The sub base
must be designed to accommodate the expected load
and environmental conditions and provide long term
3
1. Place edge restraints along all unrestrained

paver edges. Ensure base is dry, uniform, even,
and ready to support limestone screenings or
sand, pavers, and imposed loads.

3. Loosely place limestone screening or sand to an
uncompacted uniform depth of 1-1/2 in (3.8 cm)
leveled to the grade and profile required (see
Figure 21).
Important: Do not use sand for sloping areas

since the sand will be washed away resulting in dam-
age to the heating cables.
4. Thoroughly compact this base layer. In general,
1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) uncompacted depth will reduce
to 1 in (2.5 cm) after compaction.
2-1/4 in (5.7 cm) maximum

thickness brick or concrete
paver
Two layers
1-1/2 in (3.8 cm)
1-1/2 in thick limestone
(3.8 cm) screenings or
sand
Level of
heating
cable
Plastic tie
wraps
4 in (10 cm) or 6 in (15 cm)
square 10 gauge wire mesh
Figure 21: Cross-section showing material layers for

paver area
5. Install 4 in (10 cm) or 6 in (15 cm) square 10

gauge wire mesh over the compacted limestone
screenings/sand (see Figure 21).
3

on top of the wire mesh and fasten the cable
to the mesh with plastic tie wraps (do not use
wire), at the predetermined spacing, ensuring
that the watt density is as specified in the design
requirements (see Section 2.10). Typical cable
edges and outer walls (see Figure 22).
Slab sensing thermostat

(not required if snow 2-1/4 in (5.7 cm) maximum
melting controller includes paver thickness
1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) layer
Junction Conduit for slab limestone screenings
box temperature sensor or sand
Terminate cold lead

cable in junction box 1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) layer
located above slab limestone screenings or sand
level to prevent Cable in 6 in
moisture entering box (15 cm) from edge
unless curbs used
Hot/cold joint
Fasten cable to 4 in (10 cm) or
Structurally sound well-drained 6 in (15 cm) square 10 gauge
base designed to handle expected wire mesh with plastic tie wraps
load and environmental conditions
Figure 22: Brick and concrete pavers

6 in (15 cm) in from the edge of the heated area,
ded in the limestone screenings or sand (see
3
Section 2.6). Protect the cold leads with nonme-

tallic conduit where they emerge from the heat-
ed area (see Figure 22 and Section 4 for details).

10. Before the cables are covered, check the insula-
tion. Details on testing can be found in Section
8. Minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc.
11. Loosely place limestone screenings or sand over
the heating cable to an uncompacted uniform
depth of 1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) leveled to the grade
and profile required. Continuously check the
insulation resistance of the heating cables to
verify that the cables are not damaged during
placement of the limestone screenings or sand –
minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000Vdc.
Important: Do not use sand for sloping areas

since the sand will be washed away resulting in
damage to the heating cables.

heating cable during the placement of the lime-
stone screenings or sand. Do not use sharp tools
such as rakes, shovels, etc. that might damage the
heating cable. Do not strike the heating cable with
tools, walk on the heating cable, or do anything
else that will damage the heating cable.

installation, the insulation resistance will immedi-
ately decrease. Mark the location of the damaged
section and repair the cable before installing the
pavers.
3
12. Install 2-1/4 in (5.7 cm) maximum thickness

paving stones and tamp in accordance with the
paver manufacturer’s recommendations.
Important: Take care not to drop the pavers

onto the cable or bedding course during instal-
lation as the heating cable could be severed by a
sharp edge. If a paver is dropped, the cable should
be immediately tested for continuity and insula-
tion resistance.

15. The slab temperature sensor can be installed
at any time after the installation has been com-
pleted. Refer to Section 4 for details.
3.5 Concrete and Asphalt Wheel Tracks

snow melting cables for concrete and asphalt wheel
tracks in residential applications. Review and under-
stand the technical requirements in Section 2 prior
to installing the heating cables.

properly prepared (see Section 2.2). The sub base
must be designed to accommodate the expected load
and environmental conditions and provide long term
Designing a snow melting or anti-icing system for

only the wheel tracks will reduce the power con-
sumption for concrete and asphalt driveways. For
residential driveways, two 18 in (46 cm) wide tracks
are typically snow melted using four runs of heating
cable in each track (see Figure 23). Typical distance
between tracks is 6 ft 6 in (2 m), but must be adjust-
ed for the particular vehicle. Excess heating cable
may be used up at either end of the driveway.
Important: Installation of surface snow melting or

anti-icing systems must be done only for concrete or
asphalt surfaced driveways. Do not use for brick paver
driveways.
3
Important: Due to wider tires used on commercial

vehicles, wheel tracks intended for larger vehicles
should be minimum 24 in (61 cm) wide. Use six or
more runs of heating cable for these wheel tracks.
Verify that the spacing between runs of cable is cor-

rect to ensure that the required watt density will
be supplied. For an 18 in (46 cm) wide track, cable
spacing is approximately 5 in (12.5 cm) but will vary
depending on the heating cable wattage and length.
If the heating cable was selected from the Surface
Snow Melting MI Design Guide (H57045), space the
heating cable as recommended in the appropriate
table from the design guide. This Design Guide is
available on our web site at www.pentairthermal.com.
Complete the wheel track installation by following

the instructions in Section 3.1 for installation in con-
crete or Section 3.2 for installation in asphalt.
Important: In areas where snow does not typi-

cally melt in winter, even during thaw cycles, contact
Thermal Management for assistance to avoid snow
build-up between wheel tracks.
3
Concrete base pour designed Concrete or asphalt surface finish

to withstand all anticipated installed as recommended in the
stresses without cracking. appropriate installation detail
See appropriate installation
Cable in 6 in minimum
detail.
(15 cm) from edge
Prepunched steel unless curbs used
strapping securely
fastened to base 6 ft 6
in (2
to hold cable m) ty
p.
Structurally sound well-

Use up excess cable drained base designed to
in this area at the handle expected load and
same spacing as environmental conditions
the wheel tracks
Conduit for slab Terminate cold lead cable
temperature sensor in junction box located
Cold leads protected with above slab level to prevent
1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) minimum moisture entering box
nonmetallic conduit where
they emerge from slab
Figure 23: Wheel track installation detail
3.6 Concrete Stairs

heating cables for concrete stairs. The concrete may
be installed using a single pour, where the heating
cables are attached to the reinforcement, or two
pours, where the cables are attached to a concrete
base as shown in Section 3.1. The instructions fol-
lowing show a two-pour installation, but the details
for a single-pour installation are similar. Review and
understand the technical requirements in Section 2
prior to installing the heating cables.
Important: Reinforcement is necessary to ensure

that the concrete is structurally sound. Concrete that
cracks, crumbles, or settles can damage the heating
cable. The reinforcing must be adequately supported
so that it is not disturbed by the installation. It is
3
important that the heating cable depth in the concrete

be maintained for proper operation of the system.
1. When installing the heating cable on steps
with an attached landing, where an expansion
joint separates the steps from the landing, do
not cross the expansion joint with the heating
cable. A separate cable must be installed on the
landing.
3. Plan the cable layout on the steps. For a two-
pour concrete installation, ensure that the sharp
outside corners of the steps are rounded off
where the heating cable will cross them (see
Figure 24). Mark the locations where rail posts
will be installed on the steps. Keep heating cable
away from these areas to avoid damaging the
cable when the rail post anchors are installed.
Important: In two-pour installations it is

desirable to make the base slab and topping
course truly monolithic since the majority of
recorded cable damage is a result of slabs
becoming delaminated and shifting. The surface
of the base slab must be properly cleaned and
prepared to allow the topping pour to bond to the

to 1.2 m) intervals with additional runs, where
Figure 24). Fasten the strapping in place using
an appropriate fastening method.
Important: In a single-pour installation,

where the heating cable is attached to the rein-
forcement, ensure that the reinforcement is
located at a depth that will allow for 2 in (5 cm)
to 3 in (7.5 cm) maximum concrete cover over the
heating cable.
3
5. Lay out the heating cable as shown in Figure 24

ping. For concrete steps with a depth of 10.5 to
12 in (27 to 30 cm), three runs of heating cable
are typically used, with the first run 2 to 3 in (5 to
7.5 cm) maximum from the front edge, or nose,
of the step (this is where snow and ice build-
up is the most dangerous) and the remaining
two runs spaced equally apart from this run of
cable. For steps with a depth of less than 10.5
in (26.7 cm), two runs of cable are typically used
with the first run 2 to 3 in (5 to 7.5 cm) maximum
from the front edge, or nose, of the step and the
second run spaced 5 in (12.5 cm) from this run
of cable. Stay at least 4 in (10 cm) from edges,
outer walls, and rail post anchor points (see
Figure 24).
Important: In a single pour installation, lay-

out the heating cable as described above, and
fasten the heating cable to the reinforcement
with plastic tie wraps (do not use wire).
6. For attached landings, without an expansion joint

between the steps, space heating cables 4.5 in
(11.5 cm) apart on the landing or as stated in the
design specifications.
Important: Excess cable may be used up in an

attached landing (with no expansion joint between
the steps and landing), or by adding an extra run
to one or more steps.

6 in (15 cm) in from the edge of the slab, ensur-
ing that they will be completely embedded in the
concrete (see Section 2.6). Protect the cold leads
with nonmetallic conduit where they emerge
from the slab (see Figure 24 and Section 4 for
details).

3

10. Before the concrete is poured, check the insula-
tion. Details on testing can be found in Section 8.
Minimum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc.
11. Pour a 2 in (5 cm) minimum to 3 in (7.5 cm)
maximum thickness concrete cover over the
heating cables and ensure that it is thoroughly
consolidated with a high frequency vibrator.
Continuously check the insulation resistance of
the heating cables to verify that the cables are
not damaged during the concrete pour – mini-
mum acceptable IR is 20 MΩ at 1000 Vdc. The
concrete cover over the heating cables must be
structurally sound and must properly adhere to
the base slab to prevent delamination between
the slabs.

heating cable during the concrete pour. Do not
use sharp tools such as rakes, shovels, etc. that
might damage the heating cable. Do not strike
the heating cable with tools, walk on the heating
cable, or do anything else that will damage the
heating cable.

concrete pour, the insulation resistance will imme-
diately decrease. The pour should be stopped and
a small wooden box built around the damaged sec-
tion. Pouring can then continue and repairs made
after the concrete sets up.
12. Allow the concrete to cure following the specifi-

cations in the contract documents.
curing period. Do not allow traffic on the new
completed surface until adequate stability
has been attained and the material has cured
sufficiently.
3

16. The slab temperature sensor can be installed at any
time after the concrete installation has been com-
pleted. Refer to Section 4 for details.
Rail
Conduit for slab temperature sensor post
Corner rounded
off to prevent
cable damage
1/2 in (1.3 cm)

Cable must be at least
wide steel
4 in (10 cm) from edge
prepunched
strapping Cable must be at least
4 in (10 cm) from rail post
Topping 2 in (5.0 cm)

minimum to 3 in (7.5 cm)
Dimension B must not maximum thickness
exceed 6 in (15 cm)
Dimension A must not B
exceed 3 in (7.5 cm)
A
Riser
If Dimension C exceeds
4 in (10 cm) an additional
C run of cable must be used
Figure 24: Stair installation detail
4
Accessory Installation
4.1 Junction Boxes

Raychem MI heating cables must be connected to
UL Listed or CSA Certified junction boxes suitable
for the location (UL Listed heating cables must be
connected to UL Listed junction boxes). Metallic
junction boxes with threaded entries are recom-
mended because the NPT threaded connector (see
Table 1 on page 4) provides a ground path for the
cable sheath when tightened to the recommended
torque. In hazardous areas, the NPT threaded con-
nector also prevents the passage of gases, vapors,
liquids and flames.
Nonmetallic junction boxes may be used providing

that the NPT threaded connector is grounded using
a ground hub as shown in Figure 25. Use a 3/4 in
NPT ground hub with a 1/2 in reducer; this will allow
the pot on the end of the cold lead to be fed into the
junction box.
Important: Ensure that the heating cable copper

sheath is properly grounded. This can be accomplished
by connecting the cold lead into a metallic junction
box with threaded entries and tightening the gland
connector to the recommended torque. When
connecting the cables to nonmetallic junction boxes,
use ground hubs (see Figure 25) to ensure that the
heating cable sheaths will be properly grounded.
Locknut
¾ in ground hub
Grounding
½ in reducer collar
Figure 25: Typical ground hub
4
Junction box installation details

Improper location of junction boxes can cause heat-
ing cable failure. To avoid problems, the information
provided under junction box installation details,
handholes, and cold lead installation guidelines
should be followed.
• Install the heating cable cold leads and/or con-
duit leading to the junction box so that water does
not enter the box.
• Embedding the junction box in the slab or too
low to the ground may allow moisture to enter
the junction box, resulting in cable failure; mount
junction boxes above grade level, inside the build-
ing, or on a structure wall, if possible.
• Do not enter the junction box from the top as this
may allow water to enter.
• Take appropriate measures to ensure that mois-
ture does not collect in the bottom of the junction
box. Moisture, due to condensation, may form in
the box even after the lids have been installed.
Several common methods of installing junction

boxes are shown following:
In Figure 26, the junction box is mounted in a recess

in the outer wall and protected with a gasketed
cover once all electrical connections are completed.
In Figure 27, the junction box is mounted on an
inside wall. In both cases, the cold leads are fed
through flexible nonmetallic conduit, allowing them
to flex when the slab expands and contracts. Seal
the end of the conduit in the slab to prevent con-
crete or asphalt from entering the conduit.
4
Concrete wall
6 in (150 mm)
deep
Recessed
area
Junction
box
Cable identification tag
(within 3 in (75 mm)
of NPT connector
Level of first Cold lead
pour in 2-pour
•
installation Expansion joint
Heating Hot/cold Heated

cable joint slab
1-1/2 in (38 mm) minimum nonmetallic

conduit extending 6 in (150 mm) into slab
Note: Seal conduit end so it does not
become filled with concrete or asphalt
Figure 26: Junction box recessed in wall
4
Concrete wall
Junction box mounted on inside wall

(within 3 in (7.5 cm)
Level of first of NPT connector)
pour in 2-pour
installation Cold lead
Expansion joint
Heating Hot/cold Heated

cable joint slab
1-1/2 in (3.8 cm) minimum nonmetallic

conduit extending 6 in (15 cm) into slab
Note: Seal conduit end so it does not
become filled with concrete or asphalt Seal end with
waterproofing compound
Figure 27: Junction box mounted on inside wall
In Figure 28, the junction box is mounted on the

underside of a structural slab above the point where
the cold leads enter the base slab. This prevents
moisture from tracking along the cold leads and into
the junction box.
4
Heating
cable
Level of first pour Cold leads through
in 2-pour installation base slab (core drill)
if required
Structural
concrete
slab

(within 3 in (7.5 cm)
1 1/2 in (3.8 cm) of NPT connector)
Cold leads
Junction box mounted on underside
of slab above entry point of cold leads
Figure 28: Junction box mounted on underside of
structural slab
When connecting the NPT gland connector directly

into a metal junction box with threaded entries
(Figure 29), insert the tails and tighten the threads
on the connector into the junction box (if required,
screw a reducer into the threaded entry). For non-
metallic junction boxes, the gland connectors must
be threaded into ground hubs (Figure 30).
Install the cold lead “pot” so that it extends about

2 in (5 cm) above the bottom of the junction box (see
Figure 29 and Figure 30). Tighten the compression
nut on to the cold lead to the torque setting indicated
on the tag attached to the gland connector. This
ensures that the cable sheath is properly grounded
and prevents the passage of gases, vapors, liquids,
and flames in hazardous areas.
In cases where the cold leads are run exposed on

exterior walls, prevent damage from vehicles and
vandalism by protecting them with a metal guard.
Excess cold lead can be embedded directly in the
slab or coiled into a 12 in (30 cm) or larger diameter
loop and attached to a support close to the junction
box.
4
Connect the heating cable tails and distribution

power wires to the terminal block (see typical junc-
tion boxwiring diagrams in Section 6). Install the
junction box lid and make sure it is watertight.
Check to make sure that unused entries in the junc-
tion box are sealed with hole plugs.
Important: Minimize handling the tails to avoid

breakage.
Metal
NPT threaded entry Grounding screw
junction box
Pot – extend
2 in (5 cm) above
bottom of
junction box
Pot
Tapered 1/2 in NPT
thread threaded
(gland)
Compression connector
nut
Figure 29: Metal junction box with threaded entries

(Design B cable shown)
4
3/4 in NPT ground

Nonmetallic
hubs with Ground wire
junction box
1/2 in reducer
Pot – extend
2 in (5 cm)
above bottom
Pot of junction box
Tapered 1/2 in NPT
thread threaded
(gland)
Compression connector
nut
Figure 30: Nonmetallic junction box with ground hubs

(Design B cable shown)
4
In Figure 31, six cold leads (from three Design B/

SUB heating cables), to be connected in a three-
phase Delta configuration, enter the nonmetallic
junction box through the large conduit. The conduit
may be run underground from the base slab to
the junction box as shown in Figure 34. The power
supply conductors and the ground conductor enter
through the other conduit.
Heating cable gland Nonmetallic

connectors must be junction box
grounded using
ground bushing
Power
Heating cable supply
cold leads wires
Figure 31: Nonmetallic junction box mounted on wall
When entering a nonmetallic junction box as shown

in Figure 31, the copper sheaths of the heating
cables must be grounded by: 1) tightening the gland
connectors on to the cable sheaths to the recom-
mended torque, and 2) screwing a ground bushing
on to each gland connector (Figure 32) and ensur-
ing that the ground wire from each ground bushing
is properly bonded to ground per national and local
electrical codes.
4
Cold lead Ground wire
MI cable
threaded connector
Ground bushing
(customer supplied)
Pot
Tails
Figure 32: Using ground bushing to ground heating

cable sheath
Handholes
As an alternative to junction boxes, the heating
cables may also be terminated in handhole enclo-
sures as shown in Figure 33. Thermal Management
recommends that handhole enclosures be installed
only in areas that will experience pedestrian traffic,
such as sidewalks, and grassy areas. Do not install
handhole enclosures in areas where vehicular or
other heavy traffic may be encountered. The rat-
ing of the handhole enclosures should be selected
based on the manufacturer’s recommendations for
the location and the load likely to be imposed on
them. Ensure that drainage is in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Keep all power connections as high up in the hand-

hole enclosure as possible. Excess cold lead can
be coiled into a loop inside the handhole enclosure.
Protect all electrical power connections from mois-
ture by encapsulating the connections with gel filled
splice kits such as Tyco Electronics Gel Tap Power
Gel-filled cable splice kits or equivalent. Ground
all heating cable cold leads; where a heating cable
has two cold leads, such as Design B (SUB) cable,
ensure both ends are grounded.
Important: Ensure that all heating cables are

properly grounded. This can be accomplished by
tightening the gland connectors on to the cable
sheaths to the recommended torque, and then
4
screwing a ground bushing on to each gland connector

(see Figure 32). Ensure that the ground wire from
each gland connector is properly bonded to ground per
national and local electrical codes.
Handhole
cover
Heated
surface
Extra cold lead

coiled into a loop
inside handhole
Handhole enclosure
installed according
to manufacturer’s
instructions
Well drained gravel

Hot/cold joints Non-metallic conduit base according
embedded in for cold lead from slab to manufacturer’s
slab to handhole instructions
Figure 33: Handhole enclosure mounted in concrete

slab
Cold lead installation guidelines

If possible, plan the location of the junction box so
that the cold leads can reach the box without cross-
ing expansion joints. If this is not possible, cross
expansion joints between the slab and the building
using nonmetallic conduit as shown in Figure 26 and
Figure 27. If the cold leads must cross an expan-
sion joint between two heated slabs, use the method
shown in Section 2, Figure 10.
4
In many cases, it may be desirable to run the cold

leads through buried conduit directly to the junc-
tion box as shown in Figure 34. The cold leads can
then be terminated in a nonmetallic junction box as
shown in Figure 31 and the heating cable sheaths
grounded as shown in Figure 32.
Hot/cold
joints
Cold leads
Base
slab
Prepunched
Conduit to strapping
junction box
Figure 34: Typical cold lead installation
Important: It is recommended that the cold

leads be fed through nonmetallic conduit. If using
metallic conduit, ensure that both cold leads on single
conductor cables are fed through the same conduit.
Important: Do not feed more than six single

conductor cold leads (from three heating cables), or
three two-conductor cold leads through the same
conduit.
4.2 Slab Thermostat Installation

If using a slab sensing thermostat, mount the enclo-
sure on a wall (Figure 35) close to the conduit which
was installed during the heating cable installation
(Section 3). Insert the sensor into the conduit far
enough out into the area being heated so that it will
sense the temperature at approximately the middle
of the area. Set the temperature to 50°F (10°C).
4
• Mount thermostat above grade level and in an

area where it will not be damaged by vehicles or
vandalism.
• Cable or conduit leading to thermostat must
be installed so that water does not enter the
enclosure.
• Make sure lid is watertight.
Important: The thermostat enclosure must be

suitable for the area classification (weatherproof,
hazardous area, etc.).
Slab sensing
thermostat
Cold leads Heating cable

(to junction box)
Conduit (insert sensor

into conduit)
Figure 35: Slab sensing thermostat installation
Slab Temperature Sensor Installation

For snow melting system installations where the
slab temperature sensor is integral to the snow
melting control panel or automatic snow melt-
ing controller, insert the slab temperature sensor
into the conduit that was installed during the cable
installation. The sensor should be far enough out
into the area being heated so that it will sense the
temperature at approximately the middle of the area.
Set the temperature to 50°F (10°C).
5
Control, Monitoring and Power
Distribution
The Raychem surface snow melting system may be

controlled using one of the following three options,
but the automatic snow controller offers the highest
system reliability and the lowest operating cost.
• Manual on/off control
• Slab sensing thermostat
• Automatic snow controller
If the current rating of the control means is exceed-

ed, all three methods will require contactors sized
to carry the load. Each method offers a tradeoff
balancing initial cost versus energy efficiency and
ability to provide effective surface snow melting. If
the system is not energized when required, snow will
accumulate. If the system is energized when it is not
needed, there will be unnecessary power consump-
tion. For additional information refer to Section 6, or
contact your Thermal Management representative
for details.
5.1 Manual On/Off Control

The power contactor or the circuit breakers are
manually operated. Manual control is recommended
only for small areas.
5.2 Slab Sensing Thermostat

This control method energizes the system whenever
the slab temperature is below freezing, but is not
very energy efficient when used as the sole means of
control. It is recommended for all installations, even
when an automatic snow controller (without a slab
temperature sensor) is used. For asphalt installa-
tions, it prevents the surface from softening due to
overheating.
5.3 Automatic Snow Controller

This control method, Figure 36, automatically ener-
gizes the heating cables when precipitation and low
temperature are detected. The integral slab temper-
ature sensor de-energizes the heating cables after
the slab reaches the controller set-point, even if
freezing precipitation is still present. A built-in timer
keeps the system energized for a set hold-on time
5
Control, Monitoring and Power
Distribution
to allow the slab to completely dry once precipita-

tion stops. This is the most energy efficient control
solution.
Slab temperature sensor

Optional
RCU-3 or RCU-4
CIT-1 remote control unit To additional
snow sensor SC-40C satellite
contactors
Optional
can
be
APS
gb
SC-40C
satellite
the blak
ostat ize the
A therm
to
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is the ldffd
re
used m when eratu After tat bllfk
systetemp ng. thers
slab freezi the is
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set ergize own ffglf
its an dl;g
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SCdglsdfds Can conjusnow ating,
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A thermm is below xznt, sys sdgl
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syste freez point
set
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S
AP
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be
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A therto ene nev is dff
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The APS-4C and APS-3C include an

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bel rstat
integral slab temperature sensor

the
To power supply or incorporate the

Pentair offers a complete snow melting control system into
line of automatic a power distribution panel
controllers for snow
melting applications. To heating cable(s)
Figure 36: Automatic snow melting control system
6
Power Supply and Electrical
Protection
6.1 Voltage Rating

Check the incoming electrical supply to verify that
the voltage to be connected to the heating cable is
correct. The heating cable voltage rating is printed
on the cable tag. For a Wye connected three-phase
system, the heating cable voltage rating printed on
the tag will equal the line-to-line supply voltage
divided by the square root of 3 (Vl-l/√3).
6.2 Circuit Breaker Sizing

Size circuit breakers according to electrical code
requirements. Single-phase connected heating
cables require single-pole circuit breakers if one leg
of the circuit will be wired to a neutral, otherwise
two-pole breakers are required. For three-phase
connected heating cables, 3-pole circuit breakers
are required. Generally, heating cable current draw,
supply voltage, and wiring configuration are required
to size circuit breakers. Refer to the heating cable
tag for the electrical characteristics of the heating
cable.
The minimum breaker size may be determined as

follows:
Single-Phase Circuit
For a single-phase connected heating cable circuit,
the minimum breaker size can be calculated using
the following formula:
Breaker size = Heating cable current* x 1.25
Balanced Three-Phase Circuit

For a Delta connected heating cable circuit, the
minimum breaker size can be calculated using the
following formula:
Breaker size = Heating cable current* x √3 x 1.25
For a Wye connected heating cable circuit, the mini-

mum breaker size can be calculated using the fol-
lowing formula:
Breaker size = Heating cable current* x 1.25
* Heating cable current = Watts/Voltage (see cable ID tag)
6
Protection
6.3 Ground-Fault Protection

Use circuit breakers with 30 mA ground-fault pro-
tection on all heating cable circuits. If commercially
available ground-fault circuit breakers are unavail-
able for the voltage and current rating of the circuit,
ground-fault protection may be accomplished using
a shunt trip breaker and ground-fault sensor (see
Figure 43 to Figure 46) or using an SMPG series
power distribution and control panel (Figure 47).
Ground-fault equipment protection (GFEP) is

required for all electric surface snow melting
installations to prevent arcing or fire if the cable is
improperly installed or damaged. To minimize the
risk of fire, Thermal Management and national elec-
trical codes require both ground-fault protection of
equipment and a grounded metallic covering on all
heating cables.
WARNING: To minimize the danger of fire from

sustained electrical arcing if the heating cable is
damaged or improperly installed, and to comply with
Thermal Management requirements, agency certifi-
cations, and national electrical codes, ground-fault
equipment protection must be used on each heating
cable branch circuit. Arcing may not be stopped by
conventional circuit protection.
WARNING: To prevent shock or personal injury,

disconnect all power before making connections to
the heating cable.
6.4 Junction Box Wiring

Typical junction box wiring for a single-phase con-
nected heating cable is shown in Figure 37. Balanced
three-phase connected heating cables (cables are
the same voltage and wattage) are shown in Figure
38 and Figure 39. In the delta connected circuit
shown in Figure 38, the three heating cables are
connected to a single junction box, but could be con-
nected to individual junction boxes and three-phase
connected at the contactor.
6
Protection
L1
Ground L 2
Junction box
Heating Heating
cable cable
sheath or
ground
Terminal block
Figure 37: Typical 1Ø connection
L1
Ground L2
L3
Junction box A1
B1
C1
Heating Heating
A B C cable
cables sheath or
ground
Figure 38: Typical 3Ø Delta connection
L1
Ground L2 L3
Junction box Heating Junction box
cables
Terminal block Heating cable

sheath or ground
Figure 39: Typical 3Ø Wye connection
6
Protection
6.5 Typical Wiring Diagrams

Typical single and three phase wiring diagrams
using only a slab temperature sensor are shown
in Figure 40 to Figure 44. The wiring diagrams in
Figure 45 and Figure 46 show an APS-3C automatic
snow melting controller configured to operate bal-
anced three-phase Delta connected heating loads,
using external contactors and shunt trip breakers
with ground-fault sensors to provide ground-fault
equipment protection. Figure 47 shows an SMPG3
automatic snow melting power distribution and con-
trol panel with integral ground-fault equipment pro-
tection. Follow all requirements of national and local
electrical codes when connecting heating cables and
controllers.
The APS-4C snow melting controller and SC-40C

satellite contactor (not shown) are supplied with a
built-in contactor and provide ground-fault equip-
ment protection. The 277 volt single-phase APS-4C
and SC-40C can handle loads up to 40 amps maxi-
mum and the three-phase models can handle loads
up to 50 amps maximum. Detailed wiring diagrams
can be found in the manufacturer’s instructions sup-
plied with the controllers.
For snow melting installations controlled only by

a slab sensing thermostat, use a contactor when
switching loads greater than the maximum current
or voltage rating of the thermostat.
When connecting heating cables in a three-phase

Delta configuration, the heating cable voltage must
equal the line-to-line supply voltage; e.g., on a 480
volt, three-phase supply, the heating cable voltage
must equal 480 volts. When connecting heating
cables in a Wye configuration, the heating cable volt-
age must equal the line-to-neutral supply voltage;
e.g., on a 480 volt, three-phase supply, the heating
cable voltage must equal 277 volts.
For wiring configurations outside the scope of this

manual, please contact your Thermal Management
representative for assistance.
6
Protection
Heating L1
Heating cable cable
Slab N
sheath or ground
temperature
1-pole
sensor
GFEP breaker
Ground
Figure 40: Thermostat control of heating cable on 1Ø

line-to-neutral supply
Heating
Heating cable cable
sheath or ground Slab
temperature L1
sensor
L2
2-pole
GFEP breaker
Ground
Figure 41: Thermostat control of heating cable on 1Ø

line-to-line supply
6
Protection
2-pole
GFEP breaker Contactor
Heating Heating L1
cable cables L2
sheath or
ground
to
120 V
Slab temperature
sensor
Ground
Figure 42: Thermostat control of parallel connected

heating cables with contactor on 1Ø line-to-line supply
To ground-
fault module
3-pole circuit breaker
with shunt trip/external
ground fault sensor
Heating cables Contactor
(Delta connected)
L1
Heating 3-phase
L2 supply
cable
sheath or L3
ground
to
120 V
Note: Heating cable voltage is the same

as the line-to-line voltage (VL-L) Slab temperature
sensor
Ground
Figure 43: Thermostat control of balanced 3Ø Delta

connected heating cables with contactor
6
Protection
To ground-fault module
3-pole circuit breaker with shunt
trip/external ground-fault sensor
(Wye connected)
L1
Heating
cable 3-phase
L2 supply
sheath
or ground L3
Ground-
fault sensor
to
120 V
Slab temperature sensor
Note: Heating cable voltage is the same Ground

as the line-to-neutral voltage (VL-L/ 3)
Figure 44: Thermostat control of balanced 3Ø Wye

connected heating cables with contactor
6
Protection
CIT-1
aerial
L1
3-phase
sensor
supply
L2
WHT
RED
BLK
L3 Snow
PWR
GRD
SIG
melting
Ground controller L1 L2 N
Contactor
NC
NO
To ground- with shunt trip/external
NO
fault module ground-fault sensor
NC
to 120 V
supply
fault sensor
Slab
Ground-
temperature
sensor
Heating Note: Heating cable

cable voltage is the same as the
sheath line-to-line voltage (VL-L)
or ground
Heating cables (Delta connected)Heating cables (Delta connected)
Figure 45: Control of balanced 3Ø Delta connected

heating cables with individual contactors and APS-3C
automatic snow controller
6
Protection
L1 CIT-1
3-phase
supply
L2 aerial
sensor
L3
WHT
RED
BLK
Snow melting
PWR
GRD
Ground
SIG
controller
L1 L2 N
NC
NO
Main NO
contactor NC
To ground- with shunt trip/external
to 120 V
fault module ground-fault sensor
supply
Slab
temperature
sensor
fault sensor
Note: Heating cable

Ground-
voltage is the same as the

line-to-line voltage (VL-L)
Heating cables
(Delta connected)
Heating cable Heating cable

sheath or ground sheath or ground
Figure 46: Control of balanced 3Ø Delta connected

heating cables with main contactor and APS-3C
automatic snow controller
6
Protection
Main circuit breaker (optional) Fuse Control transformer

N
Incoming
power EUR-5A SNOW SWITCH
AUTOMATIC SNOW/ICE ME
LTING CONTROLP
Ground 24 V SUPPLY
Remote annunciation SNOW/ICE

HEAT
CYC
alarm circuit breaker

with alarm type #3)
HEATER
Three-pole
main contactor
To ground fault module

Three-pole circuit breaker
ground fault sensor
Current
transformers Gro
To ground fault module

Three-pole circuit breaker
ground fault sensor
Current
transformers Gro
Figure 47: SMPG3 power distribution and control panel
6
Protection
Slab
temperature sensor
Gutter
GIT-1
4 6
ice sensor
LPANEL
2 8
Aerial
CIT-1 snow sensor
0 10
HOURS
TER
CLE 65°F
60°F 70°F
55°F 75°F
50°F 80°F
45°F 85°F
TEMPERATURE Pavement-mounted
SIT-6E sensor
e Junction box 3 Ø Delta connected

heating cables
A1
B1
Heating
C1 cable
Heating sheath,
ound A B C braid
cables
or
ground
3 Ø Wye connected
e Junction box heating cables Junction box
ound Heating
Terminal
block cable sheath,
braid or
ground
7
Commissioning and Preventive
Maintenance
Thermal Management requires that a series of com-

missioning tests be performed on the system. These
tests are also recommended annually for preven-
tive maintenance. Results must be recorded and
maintained for the life of the system, utilizing the
Surface Snow Melting Installation Record (refer to
Section 10). Submit this manual with initial commis-
sioning test results to the owner.
7.1 System Tests

A brief description of each test is found below.
Detailed test procedures are found in Section 8.
Visual Inspection
Inspect all wiring for conformance to design draw-
ings and applicable codes. Inspect the junction
boxes, cable terminations, and connections to the
cable for physical damage. Inspect the cold leads
from the point where they exit the slab to the junc-
tion boxes for physical damage. Check that moisture
is not present in the junction boxes, that electrical
connections are tight, and that the NPT threaded
connectors are tight and properly grounded.
Important: Damaged cold leads and terminations

must be repaired or replaced.
Continuity and Insulation Resistance

Continuity and insulation resistance (IR) testing is
recommended at four stages during the installation
process, as part of regular system inspection, and
after any maintenance or repair work. Continuity
testing checks the integrity of the resistive heating
element inside the heating cable. IR testing checks
the integrity of the electrical insulating barrier
between the resistive heating element and the cable
sheath. IR testing can also be used to isolate the
damage to a single run of heating cable. Fault loca-
tion can be used to further locate damage.
Snow Melting Controller

Test the functioning of the controller by following the
instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
7
Maintenance
Power Check
The power check is used to verify that the system is
generating the correct power output. This test can
be used in commissioning to confirm that the circuit
is functioning correctly. For ongoing maintenance,
compare the power output to previous readings.
The heating cable power output (watts) is printed

on the identification tag attached to the heating
cable. Some SUA/SUB heating cables (see Surface
Snow Melting – MI Design Guide, H57045) have been
designed for use on several different supply volt-
ages. The tag shows a corresponding wattage pro-
duced for each value of supply voltage (see Figure 1
on page 5).
Energize the circuit breaker and measure the heat-

ing cable current using a clamp-on or in-line amme-
ter. Measure the voltage across the heating cable
using a volt meter. Calculate the heating cable watt-
age using the measured voltage and current.
The calculated wattage can be compared to the watt-

age indicated on the heating cable tag. This gives a
good indication of heating cable performance.
Ground-Fault Test
Test all ground-fault breakers per manufacturer’s
instructions.
7.2 Preventive Maintenance

Snow melting systems may be subject to concrete or
asphalt cracking, surface modifications and rework,
or electrical maintenance that might affect them.
Thermal Management recommends performing the
commissioning tests before the first use of the sys-
tem each autumn to detect changes or damage that
might affect the operation of the system.
If the system fails any of the tests, refer to Section 9

for troubleshooting assistance. Make the necessary
repairs and replace any part of the system if it has
been found to be defective. Protect the cold leads
from mechanical damage during maintenance work.
7
Maintenance
Important: De-energize all circuits that may be

affected during maintenance work.
Maintenance Records
The Maintenance Log Record (refer to Section 10)
should be filled out during all inspections and kept
for future reference.
Repairs
Use only Raychem MI cable and components when
replacing any damaged cable. Repairs should
be performed only by qualified personnel and to
Thermal Management requirements. Retest the sys-
tem after all repairs or replacements.
WARNING: Damage to cables or components

can cause sustained electrical arcing or fire. Do not
energize cables that have been damaged. Repair
or replace damaged heating cable or terminations
before energizing the circuit.
Thermal Management recommends that the heating

cable Surface Snow Melting Installation Record in
Section 10 be completed during testing and kept for
future reference.
8
Test Procedures

• Inspect all wiring for conformance to applicable
codes.
• Check circuit breaker sizing for each circuit to
make sure it is suitable for the circuit current and
voltage.
• Verify that the contactor coil operating voltage is
correct for the control device used.
• Verify electrical wiring of automatic snow melting
control system. Check for moisture, corrosion, and
switch operation and ensure that controller is opera-
tional and properly set.
• Verify slab temperature sensor or thermostat
sensor is correctly installed, sensor lead or cap-
illary is not damaged, and ensure that slab tem-
perature control or thermostat is operational and
set to 50°F (10°C) or as required in the project
specifications.
• Visually inspect junction boxes, cold leads, termi-
nations, and electrical connections to the cable
for physical damage. Repair or replace damaged
cable and terminations.
• Verify that the cable glands are correctly fitted into
junction boxes, tight, and properly grounded.
• Check that no moisture is present in junction
boxes and that electrical connections are tight.
• Verify that all junction boxes are appropriate for
the area classification and properly sealed.
8.2 Insulation Resistance Test – Test 1

Insulation resistance is measured between the heat-
ing cable sheath and the tails. Thermal Management
recommends that the insulation resistance test be
conducted at, but not exceeding 1000 Vdc, however in
the absence of equipment with this capability, a 500
Vdc test is suitable to detect most installation related
concerns.
Frequency
Insulation resistance testing is recommended at four
stages during the installation process and as part of
regularly scheduled maintenance.
8
Test Procedures
• When received – minimum 100 MΩ

• After the cables have been installed – minimum
20 MΩ
• Continuously during placement of concrete,
asphalt, etc. – minimum 20 MΩ
• Prior to initial start-up (commissioning) –
minimum 20 MΩ*
• As part of the regular system inspection
• After any maintenance or repair work
* Under adverse weather conditions, or when the tails or termi-
nal connections have evidence of moisture, lower insulation
resistances may be encountered. Wipe tails, face of pot, and
all terminal connections with a clean dry rag to eliminate
moisture and retest.
Test Criteria
The minimum insulation resistance for a clean, dry,
properly installed heating cable should reflect the
values shown above, regardless of the heating cable
length.
8.3 Continuity (Resistance) Test – Test 2

Continuity testing is conducted using a standard
Digital Multimeter (DMM) and measures the resis-
tance between the cold lead tails. This test should
also be done after any maintenance or repair work.
Test Criteria
Measure the resistance of the MI heating cable with
the DMM. Most MI heating cable resistances are less
than 100 ohms. The approximate resistance can be
calculated using the formula: Resistance (ohms) =
Volts2 / Watts. Voltage and wattage are printed on
the heating cable identification tag.
8.4 Insulation Resistance and Continuity Test

Procedure
1. De-energize the circuit.
2. Disconnect the heating cable tails from supply
wires or terminal block.
3. Set megohmmeter test voltage to 0 Vdc or off.
4. Connect the positive (+) lead to the heating cable
sheath.
8
Test Procedures
5. Connect the negative (–) lead to both heating

cable tails simultaneously.
Important: In cases where the opposite end of the

heating cable does not terminate in the same junction
box, it must be disconnected from the power supply or
series connected heating cable and kept isolated from
surrounding metal objects to avoid erroneous readings.
6. Turn on the megohmmeter and set the volt-

age to 1000 Vdc; apply the voltage for 1 minute.
Meter needle should stop moving. Rapid deflec-
tion indicates a short. Record the insulation
resistance value in the Surface Snow Melting
7. Turn off the megohmmeter.
8. If the megohmmeter does not self-discharge,
discharge phase connection to ground with
a suitable grounding rod. Disconnect the
megohmmeter.
9. Check the continuity (resistance) of the heat-
ing cable between the two tails. Record the
resistance value in the Surface Snow Melting
10. Disconnect the multimeter.
11. Reconnect heating cable tails to the supply wires
or terminal block.
If the heating cable fails either the insulation resis-

tance or continuity test, stop and follow the trouble-
shooting instructions in Section 9.
WARNING: Fire hazard in hazardous locations.

Insulation resistance tests can produce sparks. Be
sure there are no flammable vapors in the area
before conducting this test.
8
Test Procedures
500
1000
1500
2000
2500
Tails Tails
Test 1 Test 2
Insulation resistance Continuity
Figure 48: Insulation resistance and continuity test
8.5 Power Check

The power for single and three-phase circuits can
be calculated as shown below. For clarity, automatic
snow controllers, circuit breakers, and junction
boxes have been omitted.
Single-Phase Circuits
Energize the circuit and measure the supply line
current using a clamp-on or in-line ammeter; if an
in-line ammeter is used, it must be series connected
in the circuit (see Figure 49). Measure the voltage
across the heating cable using a voltmeter. Record
the values in the Surface Snow Melting Installation
Record in Section 10. This information is needed for
future maintenance and troubleshooting.
8
Test Procedures
L1
L2
Ammeter
Voltmeter
Heating
cables
Contactor Thermostat
Figure 49: Using voltmeter and ammeter to measure

voltage and current in a single-phase circuit
The heating cable power (watts) can be calculated by

multiplying the measured voltage (volts) by the mea-
sured current (amperes) using the following formula:
Power (W) = Volts (V) x Current (A)
Compare the calculated wattage to the wattage
printed on the heating cable tag. This gives a good
indication of heating cable performance. Variations
of 10% to 20% are possible due to deviations in
measurement equipment, supply voltage, and cable
resistance.
Balanced Three-Phase Circuits

Energize the circuit and measure the supply line
current for each phase of the circuit using a clamp-
on or in-line ammeter; if an in-line ammeter is
used, it must be series connected in the circuit
(see Figure 50). The three current measurements
should be approximately equal. Measure the voltage
across each line-to-line pair (L1-L2, L2-L3, L1-L3)
using a voltmeter. The three voltage measurements
should be equal. Record the values in the Surface
Snow Melting Installation Record in Section 10. This
information is needed for future maintenance and
troubleshooting.
Important: For a Wye connected three-phase cir-

cuit, the voltage (L–N) across each heating cable will
equal the line-to-line supply voltage, measured in
Figure 50, divided by the square root of 3 (VL-L/√3).
8
Test Procedures
Delta connected circuit

L1
Three-
phase L2
supply
L3
Voltmeter
(Delta connected)
Ammeter
Thermostat
Wye connected circuit

L1
Three-
phase L2
supply
L3
Voltmeter
(Wye connected)
Ammeter
Thermostat
Figure 50: Using voltmeter and ammeter to measure

voltage and current in each phase of a three-phase
circuit
For balanced Delta and Wye connected three-phase

circuits, the heating cable power (watts), for each
cable, can be calculated by multiplying the measured
voltage by the measured current and dividing this
result by the square root of 3 using the following
formula:
8
Test Procedures
Power/cable (W) = Volts (V) x Current (A)
√3
If the voltage measurement is taken directly across

each heating cable in a Wye connected circuit, the
power can be calculated simply by multiplying this
measured voltage by the measured current using the
following formula:
Power/cable (W) = Volts (V) x Current (A)
The calculated wattage can be compared to the watt-

age printed on the heating cable identification tag.
This gives a good indication of heating cable perfor-
mance. Variations of 10% to 20% are possible due to
deviations in measurement equipment, supply volt-
age, and cable resistance.
8.6 Fault Location Testing

MI heating cable is the most rugged heating cable
available; however, damage does occur occasionally.
Most damage occurs during installation due to bend-
ing too sharply, planks thrown on the cable, cutting
the cable with shovels, or cutting or drilling through
the cable after installation. Using good installation
practices and following the “Test Procedures” in the
preceding sections will reveal any installation prob-
lems and permit faults to be located and repaired
prior to commissioning of the system. The distance a
fault is located from the end of the cable can usually
be pinpointed quite accurately; a heating cable layout
drawing will be required to determine exactly where
the fault lies. Refer to H58744 Tests to Locate Faults
in MI Heating Cable, available on our web site at
www.pentairthermal.com.
9
Troubleshooting Guide
Symptom Probable Causes

Insulation resistance less 1. Rain or high humidity.
than expected
2. Nicks or cuts in heating cable or
cold lead sheath, with moisture
present.
3. Kinked or crushed heating cable
or cold lead.
4. Physical damage to heating cable
or cold lead is causing a direct
short from conductor to sheath.
5. Presence of moisture in termina-
tions or connections.
6. Damaged termination.
Resistance lower than 1. Conductor(s) shorted to sheath

expected along length of heating cable.
2. Both conductors in
dual-conductor cable shorted
together along length of heating
cable.
Resistance is infinite 1. Conductor is open circuited.
Resistance is zero 1. Conductor(s) shorted to sheath

at termination or hot/cold splice.
Circuit breaker trips 1. Circuit breaker undersized.

2. Defective circuit breaker.
3. Short circuit in electrical
connections.
4. Excessive moisture in connection
boxes.
5. Nicks or cuts in heating cable or
cold lead sheath, moisture
present.
6. Kinked or crushed heating cable
or cold lead.
7. GFEP device trip level too low
(5 mA used instead of 30 mA) or
miswired.
9
Corrective Action
(1) Dry tails and face of seal. Inspect power connection box
for moisture or signs or tracking. Dry out connections
and retest.
(2, 3) Fault locate to find damaged section of cable
(see H58744 for details). If damaged, repair or replace
heating cable or cold lead.
(4) Check for visual indications of damage around any area
where there may have been maintenance work. Look
for cracked or damaged concrete or asphalt or any
evidence of work on the slab surface. Repair or replace
damaged sections of heating cable, cold lead or
terminations.
(5) Dry out cold lead and/or connections and replace
termination if necessary.
(6) Replace termination.
(1, 2) Fault locate to find damaged section of cable (see

H58744 for details). Repair or replace damaged
sections of heating cable.
(1) Fault locate to find damaged section of cable (see

sections of heating cable, cold lead, or terminations.
(1) Fault locate to find damaged section of cable (see
hot/cold splice or termination.
(1) Recalculate circuit load current. Resize breaker and

wiring as required.
(2) Repair or replace breaker.
(3) Locate and repair the incorrect connections.
(4) Install drains in connection boxes as required. Dry
cold lead and replace terminations if required.
(5,6) Fault locate to find damaged section of cable (see
sections of heating cable, cold lead, or terminations.
(7) Replace 5 mA GFEP device with 30 mA GFEP device.
Check the GFEP wiring instructions.
9
Symptom Probable Causes
Power output appears 1. Slab temperature sensor or slab

correct but snow and ice sensing thermostat set
is slow to melt. incorrectly.
2. Thermal time delay.
3. Weather conditions too severe for
design.
4. Inadequate watt density
(W/sq ft; W/sq m).
5. Wrong cable installed.
Power output is zero or 1. Snow melting controller

incorrect inoperative.
2. Slab sensing thermostat
inoperative.
3. Slab sensing thermostat wired in
the normally open (N.O.) position.
4. No input voltage.
5. Broken or damaged heating
cable, cold lead, or hot/cold joint.
6. Circuit breakers tripped.
7. Improper voltage used.
8. Wrong cable installed.
Important: If the corrective actions above do not resolve the

problem, contact your Pentair Thermal Management
representative for further assistance.
9
Corrective Action
(1) Set sensor control or thermostat to 50°F (10°C).

(2) Heating cables not energized soon enough. Check
system controls. Adjust or modify operation.
(3) After snowfall ceases, manually energize system
to melt remaining snow. (A typical snow melting
system is not designed to effectively melt all snow
during the severest storms).
(4,5) Verify installation as per design. Contact Pentair
Thermal Management for assistance.
1) Verify electrical connections to snow melting

controller and sensor, verify supply voltage to
controller, verify operation, and repair or replace
controller or sensor if necessary.
(2) Verify electrical connections to thermostat, verify
operation, and repair or replace thermostat if
necessary.
(3) Confirm wiring using the normally closed (N.C.)
terminals so that contacts close with falling
temperature.
(4) Repair electrical supply lines and equipment.
(5) Repair or replace heating cable or cold lead.
(6) See above symptom under “Circuit breaker trips.”
(7) Verify voltage and connect to proper voltage, if
necessary.
(8) Verify installation as per design. Contact Pentair
Thermal Management for assistance.
10
Installation and Inspection
Records
Surface Snow Melting Installation Record
INSTALLATION LOCATION
Project name:
Reference drawing:
Company:
Address
State/Province:
Installation environment: T Commercial T Industrial T Hazardous Area
If installed in a hazardous area, fill in the following additional information:
Area: Ignition temperature °F T °C T
Group classification
Heating cable temp code/ sheath temp. (from tag)
INSTALLED BY
Company:
Address
State/Province:
Name
VISUAL INSPECTION (check for all heating cables and cold leads)
Cold Lead:
Steel angle iron and RTV/silicone compound is used to cross concrete Yes T
crack control and expansion joints?
The hot/cold joints are 6 in (15 cm) in from edge of heated area? Yes T
The cold lead is protected where it emerges from the heated area? Yes T
Hot/cold joints are spaced at least 6 in (15 cm) apart? Yes T
All junction boxes are mounted above grade, and installed so Yes T
that water cannot enter them?
The cable sheath is securely connected to ground? Yes T
NPT threaded connectors must be properly grounded.
90 Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMelting-EN 18/01
10
Records
Installation date
Area size sq ft T sq m T
City
Postal code
City
Postal Code
Phone
Heating Cable:
Cable spacing is as specified for the design? Yes T
Enter spacing: ________________________ in T cm T
Rebar or mesh is adequately supported? Yes T
Heating cable is fastened to rebar or mesh using plastic tie-wraps? Yes T
(Single pour concrete installation only)
Heating cable is fastened to prepunched strapping, set at 3–4 ft Yes T
(0.9–1.2 m) spacing? (2-pour concrete and asphalt installations)
Location of all concrete crack control/expansion joints identified Yes T
before pouring?
Heating cable crosses expansion joints as shown in Section 2, Figure 10? Yes T
Steel angle iron and RTV/silicone is used to cross concrete Yes T
crack control joints
Heating cable jacket is not damaged? Yes T
Heating cables are not grouped, touching or crossed? Yes T
Heating cables are not spaced closer than 3 in (7.5 cm) apart? Yes T
Heating cables are not in contact with insulating material? Yes T
Heating cables are installed in accordance with manufacturer’s Yes T
recommendations for concrete, asphalt, or pavers?
Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMelting-EN 18/01 91
10
Records
ELECTRICAL TESTING
Note: Minimum acceptable insulation resistance shall be 20 MΩ (100 MΩ upon receipt)
Conduct insulation resistance tests at 1000 Vdc (bypass controller if applicable)
Megohmmeter manufacturer/model
Multimeter manufacturer/model
1 Receipt of Material
Insulation
Heating Cable Resistance Continuity
Catalog No. /Tag No. (MΩ) (Ω)
Cable #1
Cable #2
Cable #3
Cable #4
Cable #5
Cable #6
Cable #7
Cable #8
Cable #9
Cable #10
Cable #11
Cable #12
3 Initial Start-up (Commissioning)

WARNING: Disconnect all power before conducting insulation resistance
and continuity tests.
Heating
Heating Cable Cable Breaker
Catalog No. /Tag No. Location Number
Cable #1
Cable #2
Cable #3
Cables 1,2,3 three phase connected Yes T NoT Delta T Wye T
Cable #4
Cable #5
Cable #6
Cables 4,5,6 three phase connected Yes T No T Delta T Wye T
Cable #7
Cable #8
Cable #9
Cable #10
Cable #11
Cable #12
Ground-fault protection (type)
Test ground fault
Test controller
Test slab sensing thermostat
Topping material (check one): Concrete T Asphalt T Pavers T
Contractor’s signature:
Accepted by:
Date:
Fax completed form to (650) 474-7657 to apply for 10-year Limited Warranty Extrension
10
Records
Megohmmeter date of last calibration

Ohm setting
2 After cable installation (before covering cables)
Heating Cable Catalog No. /Tag No. Insulation Resistance(MΩ)

Cable #1
Cable #2
Cable #3
Cable #4
Cable #5
Cable #6
Cable #7
Cable #8
Cable #9
Cable #10
Cable #11
Cable #12
Insulation
Resistance
(MΩ) Continuity (Ω) Supply Voltage (V) Current (A)

Ground-fault trip setting mA
Witnessed by:
Approved by:
10
Records
Maintenance Log Record

Area location:
CIRCUIT INFORMATION
Breaker panel number:
VISUAL
Surface snow melting or anti-icing system
Enclosures, junction boxes, contactors sealed
Presence of moisture
Signs of corrosion
Damage to cold lead or termination

ELECTRICAL TESTING
Conduct insulation resistance test at 1000 Vdc (bypass controller is applicable)
WARNING: Disconnect all power before conducting insulation resistance

and continuity tests.
Heating
Heating Cable Cable Breaker
Catalog No. /Tag No. Location Number
Cable #1
Cable #2
Cable #3
Cable #4
Cable #5
Cable #6
Cable #7
Cable #8
Cable #9
Cable #10
Cable #11
Cable #12
Ground-fault protection (type)
Test ground fault
Test automatic snow melting controller
Test slab sensing thermostat

Comments and actions

Prepared by:
Approved by:
10
Records
System Reference drawing(s)
Supply voltage Phase
Automatic snow melting controller and sensor

Signs of corrosion/damage
High limit temperature setting
Delay timer set
Slab sensing thermostat
Thermostat setpoint
Sensor and lead not damaged
Insulation
Resistance (MΩ) Continuity (Ω) Supply Voltage (V) Current (A)

Ground-fault trip setting mA
Company Date
Company Date
www.pentairthermal.com
NORTH AMERICA
Tel: +1.800.545.6258
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Thermal management Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01

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MI Heating Cable System

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL FOR

THERMAl MANAGEMENT WWW.PENTAIRTHERMAl.COM

• To avoid damage to the heating cables, do not energize

• To minimize the danger of fire from sustained

• Heating cables must be spaced at least 1/2 in (1.3 cm)

• Approvals and performance of the surface snow

• Cable terminations must be kept dry before, during,

• Damaged heating cable can cause electrical arcing or

• If the heating cable sheath is stainless steel, the

• Reinforcing rod, mesh or other materials used for

• Megohmmeters operate at high voltage. This voltage

2 General Installation Guidelines

3 Heating Cable Installation

Raychem-IM-H57754-MISurfaceSnowMeltingCOM-EN 18/01 iii

6 Power Supply and Electrical Protection

7 Commissioning and Preventive Maintenance

10 Installation and Inspection Records 90

1.1 Use of the Manual

This manual assumes that a proper snow melting

For design assistance, technical support, or

Important: For the Thermal Management

* Special permission for paver snow melting is required

1.3 Safety Guidelines

Pay special attention to the following:

Important instructions are marked Important

Warnings are marked WARNING

1.4 Electrical Codes

For a complete list of approvals, refer to the product

Important: Types SUA and SUB heating cables are

An extension of the limited warranty period to ten

1.7 Heating Cable Construction

Table 1: MI Heating Cable Configurations

B Single Cold lead length Heated length Cold lead length

D Dual Heated length Cold lead length

1.8 Heating Cable Identification

Important: If the metal tag is removed during cold

Figure 1 shows a typical identification tag supplied

Figure 1: Typical SUA/SUB MI heating cable

Important: Several SUA and SUB series of heating

Figure 2: Typical custom engineered heating cable

1.9 Heating Cable Catalog Number Decoder

The heating cable catalog number may be broken

Figure 3: MI heating cable catalog number

The guidelines in Section 2 are provided to assist

2.1 Before You Start

It is important that the heating cable depth and

To ensure that the installation proceeds smoothly

Important: Fuel storage areas and aircraft han-

2.2 Materials Specifications

2.3 Heating Cable Storage

2.4 Tools Required

2.5 Cable Testing Guidelines

• Prior to initial start-up (commissioning) –

2.6 Heating Cable Handling

Important: Do not energize the heating cables

• Use a pay-off reel to uncoil heating cable dur-

Figure 4: Unreeling/uncoiling cable

• Do not alter cable length.

• Approvals and performance of the surface snow

• Damaged heating cable can cause electrical arcing or