Electric heating cables are commonly used in surface snow melting systems to prevent the accumulation of snow and ice on driveways, walkways, parking lots, and other surfaces. These systems use electrical resistance to generate heat, which melts snow and ice.
AntWarm has designed ATXLP and ATSMC for this application along with related junction box. These cables are typically controlled by snow and temperature sensors, which will been automatically turn on when snow begins to accumulate, ensuring that the surface is always clear. Besides heating cables, AntWarm also manufactures snow melting heating mats ATSM as an important supplement for snow melting heating system.
What’s more, AntWarm newly launched snow melting rubber mat specially for finished surface. They are made of thermosetting vulcanized rubber, waterproof, very easy for installation and requires no renovation on the existing surface. It provides a safer, more efficient and environment-friendly heating solution, and is able to melt up to 64 m m snow per hour! The surface temperature of this mat can reach 20 degrees above the ambient temperature. It can connect up to 14 amps of AntWarm rubber mats (max.10 mats)
1. Driveways and Walkways
One of the most common applications is on residential driveways and walkways where homeowners want to eliminate the need for shoveling snow or using salt. The heating cables are installed beneath the surface (usually concrete or asphalt) or in a new construction phase before the final paving. For existing surfaces, the cables can be laid over the ground and covered with a layer of concrete or an overlay.
Another similar application of electric heating cables is in residential garage floors and at driveway entrances to ensure that vehicles can drive in and out without difficulty during snowy conditions.
2. Packing Lots
Commercial parking lots often use electric heating cables to avoid the labor-intensive task of snow removal and to maintain clear and safe driving areas. The cables are embedded within the pavement or applied under a layer of gravel or asphalt in the construction phase of a parking lot. The heating cables are arranged in a grid pattern, covering a wide area to ensure uniform heat distribution. Like residential applications, snow sensors can detect snow accumulation, and the system will activate, preventing ice from forming in high-traffic areas, which is especially important in preventing accidents or vehicle damage.
3. Ramps and Stairs
For areas where there is a high risk of slips and falls due to snow and ice, such as wheelchair ramps, outdoor stairs, and public entryways, electric heating cables provide a safety benefit. The heating cables are installed under the surface of the ramps or stair treads. In some cases, the cables can be placed in mats or mesh systems that can be directly applied to the surface and then covered with a thin layer of material like concrete or tile. Besides, AntWarm snow melting rubber mat is also an effective and safer solution for this application. With combination of rubber mats, it can be installed on stairs and ramps. Not only it will melt the snow effectively, but the surface of rubber mat also has the advantage of anti-slippery.
4. Airport Runways and Taxiways
Airports in cold climates often use electric heating cables to ensure that runways and taxiways remain safe and clear of ice and snow, which could create dangerous conditions for airplanes. The cables are embedded into the runway or taxiway surface and are connected to a central control system that can monitor and manage their operation.
There are many other applications than the above. In conclusion, the application of electric heating cables in snow melting systems is highly beneficial for maintaining clear, safe surfaces in areas that experience cold and snowy conditions. Their automated, efficient operation reduces the need for manual labor and chemical de-icers, providing a reliable and low-maintenance solution for snow and ice control.