The use of steam in the piping business is extremely common and the efficient handling of steam lines is essential. The major consequence of running steam through piping is that as the pipeline cools, the steam loses heat and produces condensate which if left in the line will cause waterhammer and subsequent damage to the piping system and/or equipment.
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Figure 8-1: Water Hammer Noise |
Figure 8-2: New York Water Hammer |
Explosion
STEAM PIPING
All steam piping systems must be designed as follows:
Condensate must be removed from the steam line as soon as possible by the use of steam traps and drip legs (Figure 8-3). Drip legs collect condensate and are located at all low points in steam lines and at intervals in horizontal piping. A steam trap is connected to the drip leg and will open to allow the condensate to escape, then will close when it senses steam thereby not allowing any steam to escape from the line.
Strainers must be provided upstream of the steam trap to prevent any scale or grit from entering the trap and causing them to stick in an open position. Some traps have built in strainers.
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Figure 8-3: Typical Drip Leg |
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Figure 8-4: Drip Leg with Flanges |
