NETCOM FAQS – ADH NETCOM

BLANK
How can I communicate with my dehydrator?
The NETCOM dehydrator can communicate via Ethernet, RS422 and RS232.  The Ethernet interface provides the best communications and control of the dehydrator by providing a web based interface.  Through this interface you can monitor the system, change the IP address, communications interface parameters, pressure and alarm settings. The default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9.

 

You can reset the unit to the factory default IP by turning off the power, pressing the reset button on the back under the Ethernet connection.  Continue to press the reset as you turn on the power and wait about 5 seconds before releasing the reset.

 

The RS422 and RS232 can be used to monitor the system but has limited command capabilities’.  For details on all of these interfaces consult the user’s manual at the following link:

Netcom-Model-ADH-Manual

How can I change the pressure settings on my NETCOM?
Establish communications with the dehydrator through the Ethernet interface (default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9) and navigate to the configuration page.  Here you can change the low pressure alarm, low pressure limit, high limit target and high pressure alarm settings.  You can also select between psig or mbar and small or large system settings.
Can I change the IP address?
Yes, Establish communications with the dehydrator through the Ethernet interface (default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9) and navigate to the configuration page. Here you can change the IP address by either allowing the unit to “obtain IP address automatically” or by “use the following IP address:” and setting a static IP address.
I have two dehydrators, how can I make them work together?
By default a NETCOM is set as a slave so that it will accept commands from any other NETCOM that has been configured as a master.

 

To configure a NETCOM as a master establish communications with the dehydrator through the Ethernet interface (default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9) and navigate to the configuration page and scroll down to the “Set as Master Dehydrator via” box.  Select the type of address and enter it into the appropriate box.

I have an alarm code displayed in my status window, what does it mean?
There are numerous alarm codes associated with different issues that could arise with the NETCOM.  For a complete explanation of the codes and help with trouble shooting these issues please consult page 30 of the Installation and User’s manual available at the link below.

Netcom-Model-ADH-Manual

My NETCOM keeps turning on and off the compressor, what is going on?
This may be caused by a leak in the pressure system.  It could be a leak in the wave guide system, in the dehydrator or in the interconnecting tubing.

 

To determine which area of the system is leaking, disconnect the dehydrator from the wave guide and block the outlet port.  If the leak is in the dehydrator the short cycling will continue.  If the leak is in the wave guide or associated interconnecting tubing the short cycling will stop.

 

If the leak is inside the dehydrator consult page 46 of the Installation and User’s manual available at the link below.

Netcom-Model-ADH-Manual

What is the latest version of firmware and where can I get it.
The latest version of software can be obtained from our website at the following link:

https://www.networketi.com/software/

 

This page provides the download and complete instructions on how to install the software.

The red alarm LED is on, how do I find out what is happening and how do I correct it?
Establish communications with the dehydrator through the Ethernet interface (default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9).  The default page is the status page and here you will see the alarm/s associated with the alarm LED in the status box.  To interpret the alarm and determine the course of action required consult page 30 of the Installation and User’s manual available at the link below.

 

Can I connect more than two dehydrators?
Yes but it requires the use of an ASM-1 Smart Manifold.  In this case the Manifold is set as the Master to monitor and control the NETCOM’s that are attached to it.  This application is used for large systems and can be set for Redundant or Parallel Pumping.

For more information on the ASM-1 refer to its section in Netcom FAQ’s Library.

What is the right pressure setting for my dehydrator?
This depends on the specification on your wave guide system. You should consult the wave guide manuals or manufacturer for details.

 

The wave guide should have both a bleed valve to allow air exchange and a pressure relief valve that protects the wave guide from over pressure.  You should select a high pressure target limit and high pressure alarm limit setting below the value of the wave guide pressure relief setting.

 

 

 

 

I occasionally get high pressure alarms, what is going on?
This can sometimes occur due to solar gain which is where a portion of the wave guide is exposed to direct sunlight during the heat of the day.  The air inside the waveguide expands as it gets hotter causing a rise in pressure.

 

You can confirm this by turning off the dehydrator, bleeding off the pressure and restarting the dehydrator.  If the alarm is due to solar gain then the system will pressurize to the correct level and stay there for some time.  If the alarm is due to an issue with the dehydrator then it will over pressure right away.

I have a low pressure alarm what is the problem?
There are numerous possibilities for this alarm, to narrow the search consider your system as three parts: The wave guide, the dehydrator and the interconnecting tubing.  Isolating the dehydrator from the other two parts will determine if the problem is in the dehydrator.

 

Disconnect the outlet tube from the dehydrator and plug the output of the dehydrator.

Turn on the dehydrator and allow it to build pressure.  You can monitor the pressure via the web based interface on the status page.

 

The NETCOM is pressure tested at the factory at 7.5 psi and is allowed a maximum leak rate of .040 psi / min.  That translates to a 1 psi drop every 25 minutes.

 

If your leak rate is greater than this consult the trouble shooting guide on page 33 of the installation and operation manual at the link below.

Netcom-Model-ADH-Manual

Why do I keep getting the A12 dew point alarm?
The dew point alarm means that the internal humidity sensor is detecting moisture in the canisters.  Usually an alarm may occur for a few seconds and reset itself before it is seen as the unit determines a need to regenerate a canister.

 

At times with high outside humidity and duty cycles a canister may be declared wet before the other canister has completed its regeneration cycle.  At this time the unit will alarm for a dew point and then reset its self when the regenerating canister comes on line.

 

On dehydrators that have been in storage you may experience dew point alarms during the first 24 to 48 hours of operation due to moisture that has been absorbed into the desiccant canisters.

 

The humidity sensor used in the dehydrator is very sensitive and will become “saturated” at very low levels of moisture in the air. Once saturated it may take several hours of continuous dry air to dry out the sensor.

 

The software in the dehydrator declares a canister “wet” when the humidity sensor is “saturated” for 30 minutes of compressor run time. Given a need for several hours of continuous run time to dry out the sensor this can translate to several regeneration cycles before the sensor is dry.

 

A regeneration cycle for a single canister takes approximately 8 hours so you are looking at 24 to 48 hours to dry out the sensor.

 

Even when the canisters are declared wet the air conditioned by the canister is still dryer than the inlet air of the system.

 

Service will be required if the dew point alarm never clears or seems to be on without issues above being present.

I am running windows 7 and I cannot communicate with the dehydrator?
If you are running windows 7 and having trouble communicating you will need to enable the TFTP in the operating system.  You do this through the control panel – add / Remove programs and then add/ remove windows components.
Unable to communicate with dehydrator - error message XMLHTTP problems
To access the NETCOM web pages properly, you need to have AJAX enabled on your browser.
If using Internet Explorer 8:
Go to the tools menu, and select “Internet Options”
Select the “Advanced” tab.
Scroll down and find the “security” major heading, with an icon of a padlock.
One of the check boxes is “Enable native XMLHTTP support”
Make sure that check box is checked,  and hit “OK” to exit.
That should fix the problem.

ADH NETCOM SOFTWARE, VERSION 2.20

ADH NETCOM Software, version 2.20

Changes in this update:

This update is to due to changes in technology that required us to create a new circuit for the NETCOM.

The update will work with both the new circuit and the old circuit of previous NETCOMs.

This update includes all previous updates.

 

WHAT’S NEW:
  • Updated Web Pages.
  • Optional Feature Added: Leak Recovery (Disabled by default).

After installing this update the main page should read:

Main Firmware: ADH 3.20 or ADH 4.20.3 (New Circuit)

Comm Firmware: ADH 2.20 or None (New Circuit)

Files included:

adh5p.cr2              

AJAXTST1.HTM           

bg_badresponse.png     

bg_goodresponse.png    

config.html         

downButton.png         

etireset.html          

ETI-square-logo.png    

ETI-Web-Logo.png       

FORM.JS                

 index.html     

logo_ds2.png   

ncajax2.exe    

ncconfig.js    

ncfirm2.vbs    

ncpages.vbs    

ncstatus.js    

NCTOOLS.JS    

netcom.mib     

netcom1.c20    

netcom2.c20

netcom6.c20

SCREEN.CSS

tools.html

upButton.png

x_blu.png

x_grn.png

x_gry.png 

x_red.png

x_yel.png

Installation Instructions

1. Download and save it to your local drive, thumb drive, or similar media. For the
purposes of these instruction we will assume that you chose to save the file in your “My
Documents” folder.
2. Uncompress the contents of the zip file.
3. Open the windows command window by clicking on start, run and type “cmd” then
click OK. This will open a black screen window with dos command lines. You will also
see a line like “C:Documents and Settings(User)>” where (User) is the name of the
directory the “My Documents” folder is in. A flashing cursor will be next to the >
4. Using the windows command line:
– Change directories to the location you uncompressed the files to in step 2. You can do
this by typing “CD my documents” and pressing return. The “CD” is the dos command
for change directory to the directory you list. “CD” should take you all the way back to
the root directory (C:). Typing “CD..” will take you back one directory (C:Documents
and Settings). If you make a typing mistake and there is no directory if you hit the
return then it will return the line unchanged.
– Type “cscript ncfirm2.vbs 192.168.52.9” and press return. This will start loading files to
the NETCOM. The 192.168.52.9 is the default IP address of the NETCOM, which you can
change later, if you wish to suit your network. If you have already changed the IP
address then use that address instead of the default.
– Wait for the command to complete. (This will take some time so be patient. Once the
lights begin flashing on the dehydrator it is alright to exit the windows command line
if you wish but the installation has another step so you may want to wait.)

5. You will be prompted to wait for the front panel lights to stop flashing while the unit
reboots. Wait for the lights to stop flashing before continuing.
6. Using the windows command line:
– Type “cscript ncpages.vbs 192.168.52.9 and press return. This will again start loading
files to the NETCOM.
– Wait for the command to complete.

7. Open a web browser and go to http://[your_ip_address or your_network_name]/. You
should see the new user interface.

JEREMY CRAWFORD NAMED ETI’S STRATEGIC PLANNING MANAGER

PRESS RELEASE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2024 (SOUTH BEND, IN)

 

The ETI Network of Companies (ETI, ETI Fab, and ETI Controls) is proud to announce the promotion of Jeremy Crawford as the Strategic Planning Manager. Jeremy has proven his leadership and sales experience within the workforce for the past 7yrs. He looks forward to this new opportunity to lead the Sales & Operations’ initiatives to streamline processes that ensures ETI continues to provide exceptional service to our internal and external stakeholders. Jeremy stated, “I look forward to driving continuous improvement within the organization while finding opportunities to excel in a global and diverse market.”

Jeremy received his Bachelor of Science in Informatics from Indiana University. He is currently seeking his Executive MBA from California State University. He continually accepts challenges that will enrich his knowledge and expertise to encourage development throughout the Company and ensure ETI’s initiatives align with the organization’s strategic goals.

DAVE MAYS NAMED ETI’S ENGINEERING MANAGER

PRESS RELEASE

TUESDAY, JULY 9, 2024 (SOUTH BEND, IN)

The ETI Network of Companies (ETI, ETI Fab, and ETI Controls) is proud to announce the promotion of Dave Mays to Engineering Manager. Dave is a proven leader at ETI with over 30 years of experience working in engineering. Dave’s background and knowledge were vital in the creation of ETI products and ETI Controls’ PCB manufacturing.

Ben Crawford, CEO/President, stated, “Dave’s breadth of knowledge and experience will be at the forefront of developing new products, product enhancements, and all matters related to ETI’s technology. Dave aided in the development of the Snow Owl technology and continues to drive this into upcoming products. He will lead the team of engineers in applications from software to PCB board and mechanical designs.”

Dave stated, “I’m very excited about this new opportunity at ETI. ETI has established a great team of industry experts over the years, and it is truly an honor to work with them every day. With a continued focus on quality and product development, I see great things on the horizon for the entire ETI Network of Companies.”

CRYSTAL BRONSTETTER NAMED ETI’S GENERAL MANAGER

PRESS RELEASE:

THURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2024

The ETI Network of Companies (ETI, ETI Fab, and ETI Controls) is proud to announce the promotion of Crystal Bronstetter as the General Manager. With her experience through her leadership within our Accounting department, Crystal is dedicated to working closely with the Production and Supply Chain Departments by collaborating new initiatives that strive to meet the organizations strategic goals.

As the General Manager, Crystal is dedicated to challenging conventional practices and encouraging the team to explore new ideas for process flow. Her leadership style is focused on unlocking the team’s potential and propelling The ETI Network towards success. Her vision is to exceed customer expectations, thereby establishing new standards of excellence in the industry.

ADH NETCOM SOFTWARE, VERSION 2.19

ADH NETCOM Software, version 2.19

Changes in this update:

This update is to reduce the odor that occurs during regeneration on new units.

While the issue(s) fixed in this version will not affect all installations, it is recommended that all units in the field with earlier software versions be updated.

This update includes all previous updates.

After installing this update the main page should read:

Main Firmware: ADH 3.19

Comm Firmware: ADH 2.19

Files included:

AJAXTST1.HTM
bg_badresponse.png
bg_goodresponse.png
changes
config.html
downButton.png
etireset.html
FORM.JS
index.html
logo_ds2.png

ncajax2.exe
NCCONFIG.JS
NCFIRM.VBS
NCPAGES.VBS
NCSTATUS.JS
NCTOOLS.JS
NETCOM.MIB
netcom1.c19
netcom2.c19
netcom6.c19

SCREEN.CSS
tools.html
upButton.png
x_blu.png
x_grn.png
x_gry.png
x_red.png
x_yel.png

Installation Instructions

  1. Download and save it to your local drive, thumb drive, or similar media. For the purposes of these instruction we will assume that you chose to save the file in your “My Documents” folder.
  2. Uncompress the contents of the zip file.
  3. Open the windows command window by clicking on start, run and type “cmd” then click OK. This will open a black screen window with dos command lines. You will also see a line like “C:\Documents and Settings\(User)\>” where (User) is the name of the directory the “My Documents” folder is in. A flashing cursor will be next to the >
  4. Using the windows command line:
    • Change directories to the location you uncompressed the files to in step 2. You can do this by typing “CD my documents” and pressing return. The “CD” is the dos command for change directory to the directory you list. “CD\” should take you all the way back to the root directory (C:\). Typing “CD..” will take you back one directory (C:\Documents and Settings\). If you make a typing mistake and there is no directory if you hit the return then it will return the line unchanged.
    • Type “cscript ncfirm.vbs 192.168.52.9” and press return. This will start loading files to the NETCOM. The 192.168.52.9 is the default IP address of the NETCOM, which you can change later, if you wish to suit your network. If you have already changed the IP address then use that address instead of the default.
    • Wait for the command to complete. (This will take some time so be patient. Once the lights begin flashing on the dehydrator it is alright to exit the windows command line if you wish but the installation has another step so you may want to wait.)
  5. You will be prompted to wait for the front panel lights to stop flashing while the unit reboots. Wait for the lights to stop flashing before continuing.
  6. Using the windows command line:
    • Type “cscript ncpages.vbs 192.168.52.9 and press return. This will again start loading files to the NETCOM.
    • Wait for the command to complete.
  7. Open a web browser and go to http://[your_ip_address or your_network_name]/. You should see the new user interface.

MASON TRAN NAMED ETI’S MARKETING ASSOCIATE

Mason's banner

MONDAY, JUNE 5, 2023 (WESTFIELD, IN) The ETI Network of Companies (ETI, ETI Fab, and ETI Controls) is proud to announce the hiring of Mason Tran for the Marketing Associate position and the continuation of top talent that broadens our global ability to expand support and develop our products. Mason has proven his leadership and marketing experience through ETI’s marketing internship program and looks forward to continuing to drive ETI’s marketing efforts within a full-time position.

“Having the opportunity to work alongside Mason the past year made it evident that The ETI Network of Companies and all its partners would greatly benefit from his abilities.” stated Ben Crawford, CEO.  “He brings a dynamic look into the marketing of our products and a unique knowledge of product positioning. “

Mason received a B.S. in Business High Distinction with a Major in Marketing from IUPUI Indianapolis. With a multilingual background, Mason has achieved his professionalism and experience through working as a Teaching Assistant at IUPUI as well as creating his own content for social media platforms.

“In this company, success isn’t measured by the products we sell, but by the relationships we build. Our customers aren’t transactions, they’re partners in our journey. When they succeed, we succeed. Our shared story is our greatest success. And I am genuinely thrilled to be a part of this shared success, helping to shape the journeys of our customers, learning from them, and growing alongside them every step of the way.” Mason stated.

ETI Network of Companies Private Label Capabilities – Have a product idea in mind? We can build it for you!

 

For over 55 years, The ETI Network of Companies has been the premiere choice for OEMs seeking fully customizable private label solutions from a partner that has served customers reaching over 100 different countries.  Our products branch out in various sectors of the electronics, metals, and plastics industries. Backed by our track record of proven products, design engineering, enhanced product testing and our insular manufacturing and assembly concept, we provide cost effective, highly innovative, and highly dependable products you can rely on.  We can help from the beginning of product development and take your product all the way to UL & CE product registrations.  Let our team move with speed and eliminate timely delays in the development and manufacturing processes. Have a product in mind? We can build it for you!

 

Our global markets include Telecommunications, Satellite, Snow & Ice Management, Heat Tracing, and General OEM customized built controllers and sensors. Deemed “Essential Business” by the U.S Federal Government during the 2019 COVID-19 crisis, our products are relied upon and trusted in mission critical systems.  To further support our insular initiative our Network manufactures internally printed circuit boards, enclosures, mill/lathe machining, welding (Robotic, Tig, Mig), fabricating, stamping and complete assembly down to the finest details. Find out today why OEMs, Government & Military agencies around the world rely on and trust The ETI Network.

Did You Know?

 

 

Did you Know?  ETI Network has added two distinct manufacturing capabilities.

 

ETI manufactures and assembles much more than electronic equipment! ETI Fab can fulfill your machining, fabricating, and welding needs. In 2019, Fab was founded in Westfield, IN to take on the constant demands of machining and fabricating. This has allowed the Network to become more insular and better control product quality and delivery. Our diverse employee base has many years of experience in disciplines from metal fabrication to CNC machining with various materials, including ferrous, non-ferrous, aluminum, bronze, copper, and plastics. Check out the ETI Fab website for more information! Link: www.eti-fab.com

 

Also established in 2019, the ETI Controls located in South Bend, IN, can design and build your printed circuit board needs.  With our new Surface Mount Technology fully automated line equipped with Automated Optical Inspection has the capacity and resources to completely build and assemble your electronic requirements. The Network has expanded into private label of custom controllers and sensors. This has expanded core capabilities and private label initiatives tremendously and allows to better control our supply chain.

 

Have a question? Just ask your favorite ETI Network salesperson for more information!

Robotic Multi-Station Weld Cell Acquisition Announcement

In an effort of improving safety, accuracy and repeatability, The ETI Network of Companies is proud to announce the latest acquisition of an OTC Daihen Robotic Multi-Station Weld Cell. With “Speed is Our Weapon”, the new Cell diversifies the types of steel, stainless steel and aluminum used at the ETI FAB facility located in Westfield, IN. Along with the new cell, Camtek Optisolutions software was chosen to accurately and efficiently produce tooling and fixtures to support the Robotic Weld Cell.  This allows the team to create and design prototype and production fixtures in-house.

 

OTC Daihen, Inc. has a long history and is well-known for precision, quality, and minimal weld splatter. “Automation and the concept of the Smart Factory is a goal that we strive towards building every day at The ETI Network of Companies. First and foremost, the new weld cell enhances safety while significantly increasing part production. Further, we strive for continuous improvement in product quality, reliability and reducing variation in our processes.  Our goal is to be responsive to customers everchanging needs.” – Ben Crawford, President and CEO of ETI.

ETI & ETI FAB Are Hiring!

ETI & ETI FAB ARE HIRING

Positions Available

ETI & ETI FAB are equal opportunity employers. We offer competitive wages and great benefits.

ETI – SOUTH BEND, IN

  1. Firmware Engineer

For more information, or to apply for these positions, please contact ETI & ETI Fab HR representatives, here:

Pennie Ritterpritter@networketi.com

ETI FAB – WESTFIELD, IN

  1. General Laborer Position for 2nd Shift; Monday – Friday 3PM-11:30pm   

For more information, or to apply for these positions, please contact ETI & ETI Fab HR representatives, here:

Pennie Ritterpritter@networketi.com

What type of wire do I need to extend my lead length? Sensor vs. Thermistor

When installing ETI sensors and thermistors, you may find that you need to extend the leads greater than what’s already provided from the factory. Because the Snow Switch sensors operate at a higher voltage and use higher current than the thermistors, the recommended wire gauge differs between the two. To avoid confusion, we’ve created this writeup to explain our recommendations for extending the leads on ETI’s Snow Switch sensors and thermistors. For Snow Switch sensors, ETI recommends #18 AWG wire for up to 500 ft and #12 AWG wire for anything greater than 500 ft. On several product datasheets, #12 AWG wire is limited to 2000 ft because the average sensor runs 24 volts at 250 mA of current to limit voltage drop and low current issues.

 

Regarding the temperature sensors (thermistors), the requirement differs because the thermistor runs at 5 volts and approximately 2 mA of current, which is a negligible line loss. The main difference resides in the line resistance. ETI controllers use a 100k ohm thermistor with a negative temperature coefficient, so when the temperature decreases, the resistance increases. Since the thermistors are used for snow melt and freeze protection, the range of resistance used is 2.7Meg ohms (-40F °) to 75.2k ohms (+90F °). This means a single digit degree change will be marked by a resistance change of between 800k ohm per degree on the cold end to 2k ohms per degree on the hot end.

 

Since #22 AWG wire (which is what is specified on the thermistor) has a resistance value of 16.5 ohms per 1000 ft, it can be observed that the wire gauge will not make a considerable difference in the measurement of temperature. This means it is acceptable to use a #22 AWG wire to extend the cable.

 

#18AWG wire is 6.51 ohms per 1000 feet of wire and #12 AWG is 1.62 ohms per 1000 feet. It is worth mentioning because the #22 AWG may be the most cost-effective solution compared to the #18 or #12 AWG wire.

 

With all of that said, if the wire meets the work requirements for insulation and protection of the wire and meets ETI’s wire recommendations, it is acceptable to use #22 AWG or larger to extend the wires for the thermistor, and #18 AWG wire for up to 500 ft and #12 AWG wire for anything greater than 500 ft for ETI’s Snow Switch sensor cables

ETI TRACON – HEAT TRACE – HELPFUL TIPS

TRACON FAQ’S – FPT-130

 

CAN THE UNIT INTERFACE WITH BMS? CAN IT COMMUNICATE WITH BACNET OR MODBUS?

No, the FPT 130 provides a summary alarm via a dry contact relay.  This relay is energized whenever the unit is powered.  So, with power off the NC contact is closed, and the NO contact is open.  When the unit is powered these are in the opposite state.  A fault will de-energize the alarm relay and close the NC contact.  This allows for a default, power loss alarm without power.

 

MAX ALLEN

MAX ALLEN

Sales Associate

(O) +1 574-999-1226

mallen@networketi.com

 If you have any questions regarding any of our products please feel free to contact me any time at +1-574-999-1226 or email me at mallen@networketi.com

NETCOM FAQS – ADH NETCOM

HOW CAN I CHANGE THE PRESSURE SETTINGS ON MY NETCOM?

Establish communications with the dehydrator through the Ethernet interface (default IP address from the factory is 192.168.52.9) and navigate to the configuration page.  Here you can change the low pressure alarm, low pressure limit, high limit target and high pressure alarm settings.  You can also select between psig or mbar and small or large system settings.

ETI IS GOING PAPERLESS

Why the change?

In an effort to become more streamlined and to do our part for the environment, ETI is moving to a paperless system for all of our product Data Sheets, Installation Guides and Manuals.  Moving forward, all of our product lines; Snow Switch, Tracon and Netcom, will have a scannable QR Code on them that will lead the end user and/or installation expert to the ETI Product Supporting Document Library.  The Document Library will contain the most up to date information on all of the products in addition to information on our Legacy products.  All of the documents housed in the Document Library are available to download and print at your convenience.

How does it work?

 

NEW ETI PRODUCT ARRIVES AT CUSTOMER LOCATION

Need Product Documentation In The Field

If you have any questions regarding this most recent update to our procedures please feel free to contact our Sales Team Sales@networketi.com , +1-574-233-1202 or send us a message using the ETI Chat feature on our website.

 

 

Heat Trace with Plastic Pipes

Heat Trace with Plastic Pipes

Heat cable can be used on plastic pipes but the plastic’s durability and thermal properties must be considered. Plastic has approximately 125 times the thermal resistance than steel but is also more susceptible to damage from direct high temperatures. The key to heating plastic pipes is to use a lower temperature and distribute it as evenly as possible.

It is always a good idea to use a heat trace system with an automatic thermostat and control, but especially so when using heat trace on plastic pipe. An automatic heat trace control can monitor and maintain the system’s temperature, alarm for problems, and shut off the heat cable to prevent damage.

There is heat cable designed specifically for plastic pipes that is self-regulating and has limited wattage. Self-regulating heat cables have a conductive core between two bus wires that becomes more conductive when cold. This system increases the power to the cold spots and decreases it to the warmer areas, which provides a more even heat source.

The manufacture of the plastic pipe should be able to provide information as to the maximum temperature and how close heat cable can be spaced or wrapped on the pipe to avoid damage. Some applications may require heat cable to be applied to opposite sides of the pipe at a lower temperature to distribute the heat more evenly, avoiding one direct area of concentrates heat which may damage the pipe.

It is recommended to install a foil material between the pipe and the heat cable to avoid direct contact and help provide a more even heating. If doing this place the heat trace control thermostat directly onto the pipe with no foil over it or between it and the pipe to ensure a more accurate reading.

You can use heat cable on plastic pipes as long as you follow precautions, such as determining your pipe’s thermal capacities, selecting a self-regulating, low wattage heat cable and using an automatic heat trace control with safety functions. Following these guidelines will help prevent damage and increase the life of your heat trace system.

 

MAX ALLEN

MAX ALLEN

Sales Associate

(O) +1 574-999-1226

mallen@networketi.com

 If you have any questions regarding any of our products please feel free to contact me any time at +1-574-999-1226 or email me at mallen@networketi.com

SNOW SWITCH FAQS – PD-PRO

WHY DO I HAVE A RED GFEP LIGHT ON?

 

The GFEP indicator will come on when a ground fault occurs in one of the heater circuits.  The insulating resistance of the heater cable is breaking down or the cable has been damaged allowing current to pass to ground thru an incorrect pathway.  Left un-repaired the cable could cause a fire if it continues to be powered.

 

When a ground fault is detected the controller will not allow power to be applied to the heater circuits until the problem is corrected.  You can isolate the offending heater by removing all the heaters and reinstalling them one at a time to discover the heater with the fault. An alternative to this method is to use a Meg-ohm tester and test each heater leg per the manufactures specifications.

 

You will need to contact the heater manufacturer for instructions on how to locate the problem and fix it. Most heaters can be repaired with repair kits or splice kits but the manufacturer will be able to provide the details.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – TRACON TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER

Temperature Controller – GPT-130

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

QUESTION –

WHY AM I GETTING A GROUND FAULT WHEN THE GROUND FAULT CURRENT IS SO LOW?

 

ANSWER – 

The GPT-130 displays a number of alarms, beside the ground fault it will also alarm for low current.  If you have disconnected the load to trouble shoot a possible ground fault in the heater cable, then you probably have a Low Current Alarm and a very low default ground fault current reading.

You can tell the difference by looking closely at the display, it will tell you what the alarm is for.  If you want to clear the low current alarm so you can test the controller then go into the configuration menu and disable the Low Current Alarm.

Remember to re-enable the Low Current Alarm when you are done testing and ready to put the unit back into service.

 

  Tracon-Model-GPT-130-Manual

MAX ALLEN

MAX ALLEN

Sales Associate

(O) +1 574-999-1226

mallen@networketi.com

 If you have any questions regarding any of our products please feel free to contact me any time at +1-574-999-1226 or email me at mallen@networketi.com

ETI IS HIRING – PARTS & SERVICE SPECIALIST / CUSTOMER SERVICE

ETI SOUTH BEND IS HIRING

Position Available

ETI is an equal opportunity employers. We offer competitive wages and great benefits.

ETI – SOUTH BEND, IN

  1. Parts & Service Specialist / Customer Service

For more information, or to apply for these positions, please contact ETI HR representative:

Pennie Ritter

Pennie Ritter

HR Manager

(o): +1 574-999-1204

(m): +1 317-519-5766

pritter@networketi.com

ANTHONY MACRI NAMED ETI’S DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING

TUESDAY, SEPTEMEBER 29, 2020 (SOUTH BEND, IN) The ETI Network of Companies (ETI, ETI Fab, and ETI Controls) is proud to announce the promotion of Anthony Macri to Director-Engineering. Anthony is a proven leader at ETI with over 5 years of experience as an Electrical Engineer.  In his first year with ETI, Mr. Macri’s background and knowledge were vital in the creation of ETI Controls (ETI’s In-house Board Building Division).

 

“Anthony was influential on The ETI Network Grand Strategy creation and is now leading the execution of the plan” stated Ben Crawford President & CEO”.  We are excited he accepted the position and with his energy and skill he will create an environment of speed and innovation of ETI custom designed products while launching private label manufacturing for new customers”.

 

Anthony received a B.S in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology from Purdue University.  Prior to joining ETI, Anthony held the position of Electrical Engineer at Roush Industries in the Detroit area with a focus on wire harness automotive engineering. 

 

“I’m very excited about this new opportunity here at ETI,” Macri stated.  “ETI has established a great team of industry experts over the years and it is truly an honor to work with them every day.  With a continued focus on quality and product development, I see great things on the horizon for the entire ETI Network of Companies.”

September Is Sensor Placement Month At ETI

SENSOR PLACEMENT FOR SNOW & ICE MELT APPLICATIONS

 

A great number of service calls come in with the common problem of the heaters not coming on even though it is snowing outside or there is ice buildup. After trouble- shooting the system it is discovered that the equipment is fine but there is no snow or ice on the sensor.

 

The proper placement of sensors is critical for the snowmelt system to operate. This is especially true if only one sensor is used, multiple sensors can be a little more forgiving for incorrect placement but to get the most out of the system it would be advisable to locate as many sensors in the “sweet spot” as possible.

 

The best person to determine the sweet spots for the sensors is the installer but to do so the installer needs to consider several parameters when considering the site and the final location of the sensor or sensors. These include but are not limited to:

 

          1.  Prevailing winds

          2.  Obstructions

          3.  Orientation of buildings and their affects on snow and drift patterns

Jeremy Crawford

Jeremy Crawford

Business Development Representative

(o): +1 574-999-1274

(m): +1 317-450-3200

jcrawford@networketi.com

1850 N Sheridan St
South Bend, IN 46628
+1 574-233-1202