A properly functioning ramp heating system is essential for the safety of a parking garage, apartment complex, or any other location where it is installed. Especially during the colder months, ramp heating helps reduce the risk of vehicles slipping and ensures that the ramp remains safe to use.
Sensors are a very important part of a ramp heating system. They measure the ambient temperature and send a signal when heating is required. How does ramp heating work? We are happy to explain!
A modern ramp heating system consists of heating cables or heating mats (depending on the surface finish) installed beneath the road surface, together with two sensors embedded in the pavement. The associated control system is operated by the sensors installed in the roadway, which continuously monitor the ambient conditions. When the temperature drops below the set value, a signal is sent indicating that the ramp should be heated. When temperatures rise again, the heating system automatically switches off. The control cabinet is typically set to activate at approximately 3°C above freezing point. This ensures that frost is prevented before it occurs.
Thanks to the automatic operation of the sensors, the ramp heating system does not consume unnecessary energy. In general, the entire ramp heating installation operates only 100 to 150 hours per year. If the sensors in the ramp heating system become defective, the signal is no longer transmitted to the control cabinet. This may result in the ramp heating switching on when it should not, or failing to switch on when it is needed.
Fault messages may also occur in the control cabinet if the sensors provide incorrect measurements.
It is always possible that a component of a ramp heating system may fail. Fortunately, we offer various possibilities to professionally resolve faults and replace defective components. When purchasing a ramp heating system, a maintenance contract can always be arranged. This includes annual maintenance of the installation, ensuring that malfunctions and defects can be resolved immediately.
Ramp heating systems can be installed in a wide variety of applications. When designing a new ramp heating installation, the main factor we consider is the surface finish. This can make a significant difference in selecting the heating solution that guarantees the best result. We frequently install ramp heating beneath the following surface finishes:
Concrete
This is the most common installation method. For this type of surface, the heating is installed using heating cables. These cables are custom-made and then mounted onto the reinforcement structure. The cover layer above the cable is generally 3 to 4 cm thick. In this type of application, cables with an output of 200 to 220 W/m² are usually used.
Pavers
For paver installations, heating mats are often used instead of heating cables. Heating mats offer several advantages with this type of surface. They remain securely in position, whereas heating cables can shift during the reinstallation of the pavers. As a result, a more even heat distribution can be achieved because the cables cannot move.
These heating mats typically have an output of 300 W/m².
Asphalt
For asphalt surfaces, specially manufactured heating cables are installed that are resistant to high temperatures. These cables have a higher output than those used beneath other surface finishes. Typical outputs range between 300 and 350 W/m².
Ramp heating is a common product within our range of heating solutions. We are known for completely unburdening our customers when it comes to ramp heating systems. Every ramp heating installation carried out by our own technicians comes with a standard 15-year warranty. With a service contract, this warranty is extended to 20 years. This ensures that you can always rely on a properly functioning ramp heating system.
Would you like to learn more about the possibilities for your application? Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to help you find the right ramp heating solution!
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