Steam Distribution System Checklist

Piping

• Correctly sized for pressure drop.
• Velocity of steam in pipeline is less than 30 meters (100 feet) per second to prevent erosion.
• Correct allowance has been made for pipe expansion at operating temperature.
• Piping is adequately supported, guided and anchored.
• Pipe slopes at a gentle downward angle with the flow of steam.
• Eccentric reducers are used rather than concentric reducers.
• Equipment supply lines are connected to the top of steam mains, not the bottom.
• Isolation valves are installed to isolate equipment which is not in use.

Steam Trapping

• Steam traps are installed at regular intervals (30 to 50 meters or 100 to 150 feet).
• Steam traps are installed with correctly sized condensate collecting pockets.
• Ends of steam mains have steam trap and air vent installed.
• Steam traps are correctly sized for start-up and operating condensate loads.
• Steam traps are installed upstream of isolation valves which are regularly closed.

Water Hammer

• Determine if water hammer is experienced and eliminate it.
• Check for damage caused by water hammer.

Insulation

• Heat insulation is installed for energy conservation.
• Insulation is installed for personnel protection.
• Insulation is of optimum thickness.
• Insulation is weatherproofed and dry.
• Insulation is in a good state of repair and is not damaged.
• Foot bridges installed over pipe runs to prevent pedestrian damage to insulation.

Leaks

• No leaks exist, either to atmosphere or past traps into the condensate recovery system.