Freeze Prevention for Chokes
Over four decades of preventing freeze ups in chokes. The original Catco oilfield application.
Large pressure differentials across chokes are a common source of operational and safety concerns. Preventing hydrated formation and freeze-ups in chokes was the original application of catalytic heaters in the oilfeild. Trust a solution that the industry has used for decades.
Heated Enclosure Packages
Catco Heated Enclosure Packages are the most popular way to prevent freezing in a choke. A stainless steel enclosure houses a catalytic heater that directs safe, flameless, infrared heat at the body and prevents hydrate formation. Simplicity and reliability have made Heated Enclosure Packages the industry standard for decades. Some of our most common units are shown below, and more can be found on the product page.
For 1” or 2” Merla Choke Valves with or without flanges used in any application. 3000 or 6000 BTU/hr.
For 2” NPT high pressure control valves used in any application. Fits valves from any manufacturer including Kimray, Fisher, Belgas, BMD, Norriseal, and others.
5000 or 10,000 BTU/hr.
Pipeline Packs
In some applications with intermittent or low flow, it can be best to heat the gas stream upstream of the choke. Catco Pipeline Packs mount onto the pipe upstream of your equipment. This delivers heated gas while avoiding direct heat to the choke in a no-flow condition. Pipeline Packs are easy to install to an existing length of pipe, so installation is fast and simple.
For light-duty applications. Uses one or two 6×12 catalytic heaters. Installation requires a 15″ length of pipe upstream of the regulator. 3000 or 6000 BTU/hr. Available in a variety of starting voltages. See data sheet for full specifications.
For medium-duty applications. Uses one or two 6×24 catalytic heaters. Installation requires a 27″ length of pipe upstream of the regulator. 6000 or 12,000 BTU/hr. Available in a variety of starting voltages. See data sheet for full specifications.
For heavy-duty applications. Uses four 6×24 catalytic heaters. Installation requires a 27″ length of pipe upstream of the regulator. 24,000 BTU/hr. Available in a variety of starting voltages. Multiple units can be applied in series for higher BTU requirements. See data sheet for full specifications.
Custom Solutions
The solutions described above work for most people, but sometimes a unique installation requires a unique solution. Whether it’s a custom made enclosure to fit your choke or a fully custom system design for your application, Catco is here to help. We can rely on our decades of experience to find a solution that’s up to the task.
To begin the process for a custom solution, contact us with information about your application, or give us a call at 888-436-2095.
