Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Steam Pipes!

Steam pipe sizing!
Two approaches can be used for sizing steam piping in a steam system. It could either be by: a) steam velocity method or b) pressure drop method. In the case of steam velocity method, the preferred velocity is between 15-35 meters/sec. The lower end is more ideal, in order to minimize pressure drops. In the first approach, the specific weight of the steam will have to be averaged, and assumed. When the pipeline is short, the higher velocities can be used. In long pipe runs, however, wherein the pressure drops are critical and important, the pressure drop method is a better approach. Special tables from OEMs and handbooks can provide the empirical data for the piping table data, and help in the pipe size specifications writing. Note that too high a velocity in a steam piping can produce erosion of pipes, high pressure drops and too much noise. Correct pipe sizing would preclude such problems to the benefit of the installation owner and operator.
Written by: Sanoy Suerte, RME/MBM; Http://www.linkedin.com/in/sannysuerte
Http://businessmanage.sosblog.com

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