Technical Details of the Preheating Process
Welding preheating is essential to prevent defects and ensure the structural integrity of welded joints. At INTEC-HEAT, we use precision temperature control systems and state-of-the-art programmers that maintain a uniform and controlled temperature across the entire part to be welded. These systems are designed to adapt to different geometries and thicknesses, ensuring suitability for the specific needs of each industry.
High-precision temperature sensors allow us to maintain the required tolerance ranges, automatically adjusting the process to compensate for any deviation. Moreover, our equipment enables real-time adjustments, optimizing the efficiency and quality of preheating in critical applications—from piping systems to thick components in complex industrial structures.
Detailed Description of Preheating Methods
At INTEC-HEAT, we offer two main preheating methods, each with specific advantages depending on client requirements:
1. STATIC PREHEATING
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Electric (Resistive Heating)
Direct application of electric resistance heaters, placed at the appropriate distance from the weld, achieves the required temperatures during the process. The flexibility of these elements makes them ideal for adapting to any geometry. -
Induction Heating
High-frequency cables wrapped around the element to be welded excite the molecules, causing the temperature to rise. We use the most advanced equipment and water-cooled cables to ensure greater safety during the process.
2. ROTATING SHELLS (VIROLAS) UNDER WELDING
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Electric (Resistive Heating)
Specific resistance elements radiate heat and are mounted with appropriate supports, allowing for preheating while the shells rotate, without any physical contact. Temperature is monitored using infrared sensors. -
Induction Heating
A rolling inductor enables preheating of rotating components. By sensing the movement of the part, we can automatically shut down the system to prevent overheating in the event of unexpected weld stoppages.
Benefits of Working with INTEC-HEAT
INTEC-HEAT has over 35 years of experience in heat treatment and an international presence, with operational equipment deployed worldwide. Working with INTEC-HEAT means having a team of experts offering tailored, customized solutions for each project’s specific needs. Our commitment to quality and safety makes us a trusted provider for industries that demand precision and strict compliance with international heat treatment standards.
Advanced Technology and Process Safety
Safety and control are fundamental pillars of INTEC-HEAT’s processes. Our equipment is equipped with infrared sensors and remote-control technologies that allow temperature adjustments and automatic shutdowns in case of unexpected stops. This remote control capability enables our clients to monitor the process in real-time and maintain full control at every stage. Our goal is to provide comprehensive technical support that ensures continuous operation and rapid resolution of any issue—especially valuable in safety-critical sectors such as offshore installations and refineries.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
At INTEC-HEAT, we are committed to sustainability. Our preheating methods are designed to minimize energy consumption through the use of high-efficiency equipment and process optimization techniques. For instance, induction heating provides faster and more direct heat transfer, significantly reducing both time and energy compared to conventional methods.
Additionally, by preventing defects and optimizing the service life of treated components, we help reduce waste and maintenance requirements in high-demand applications. This results in benefits not only for our clients but also for the environment, through lower emissions and reduced energy use.
