Fuel Tank Heaters – Side Entry

PEREGRINE side entry tank heaters

Our side entry heaters allow for changing elements without draining the tank and can be built with single or dual thermostats depending upon preference.

Side entry tank heaters are industrial immersion heaters inserted horizontally into the side of a tank, typically near the bottom. They are highly favored for heating or maintaining the temperature of fluids like oils, heavy fuels, and chemicals because they allow for element replacement without requiring you to drain the entire tank.

Key Features and Benefits

Easy Maintenance: Because the heater enters horizontally, the actual heating element can often be pulled out for servicing or replacement while the tank remains full. This is a major advantage over bottom-entry designs.

Low Watt Density: Side entry heaters often use larger diameter pipes or element bundles. This spreads the heat over a larger surface area, reducing “watt density” which prevents the fluid from scorching or coking (burning onto the element).

Horizontal Heat Distribution: Heating the lower third of the tank horizontally takes advantage of natural fluid convection, as the warmed liquid naturally rises to heat the rest of the tank evenly.

Dual Thermostats & Safety: Many modern side entry heaters come equipped with dual adjustable thermostats. This provides built-in overtemperature protection to prevent the heater from overheating or degrading sensitive fuels like diesel or biodiesel.

Common Industrial Applications

Bulk Fuel Storage: Keeping heavy oils, biodiesel, and diesel fuel at a consistent temperature to prevent gelling or waxing in cold weather.

Chemical Tanks: Used to maintain process temperatures for corrosive chemicals, wastewater, or acids where specific materials (like stainless steel or titanium) are required.

Vats and Wash Tanks: Often utilized in manufacturing for heating industrial degreasers, cleaning solutions, or plating baths.