Thermal Equipment: Steam distribution and utilization

2.3 Drain points

The drain point6 must ensure that the condensate can reach the steam trap. Careful consideration must therefore be given to the design and location of the drain points. Consideration must also be given to condensate remaining in a steam main at shutdown, when steam flow ceases. Gravity will ensure that the water (condensate) will run along sloping pipework and collect at low points in the system. Steam traps should therefore be fitted to these low points. The amount of condensate formed in a large steam main under start-up conditions is sufficient to require the provision of drain points at intervals of 30m to 50m, as well as natural low points such as at the bottom of rising pipework. In normal operation, steam may flow along the main at speeds of up to 145 km/h, dragging condensate along with it. Figure 7 shows a 15 mm drain pipe connected directly to the bottom of a main.

Figure 7. Trap Pocket Too Small (Spirax Sarco)

Although the 15 mm pipe has sufficient capacity, it is unlikely to capture much of the condensate moving along the main at high speed. This arrangement will be ineffective. A more reliable solution for the removal of condensate is shown in Figure 8. The trap line should be at least 25 to 30 mm from the bottom of the pocket for steam mains up to 100 mm, and at least 50 mm for larger mains. This allows a space below for any dirt and scale to settle. Such dirt and scale can easily be removed if the bottom of the pocket is fitted with a removable flange or blowdown valve.

Figure 8. Properly Sized Trap Pocket (Spirax Sarco)

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Section 2.3 is taken fromModule 10.3 Steam Mains and Drainage. In: Spirax Sarco Learning Centre, Block 10, Steam Distribution www.spiraxsarco.com .

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Thermal Equipment: Steam distribution and utilization Recommended drain pocket dimensions are shown in Figure 9 below.

Figure 9. Recommended Drain Pocket Dimensions (Spirax Sarco)

2.4 Branch lines

Branch lines 7 are normally much shorter than steam mains. As a general rule, therefore, provided the branch line is not more than 10 metres in length, and the pressure in the main is adequate, it is possible to size the pipe on a velocity of 25 to 40 m/s, and not to worry about the pressure drop.

Figure 10. A branch line (Spirax Sarco)

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Section 2.4 is taken fromModule 10.3 Steam Mains and Drainage. In: Spirax Sarco Learning Centre, Block 10, Steam Distribution. www.spiraxsarco.com

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Thermal Equipment: Steam distribution and utilization

2.4.1 Branch line connections Branch line connections taken from the top of the main line, carry the driest steam (Figure 10). If connections are taken from the side, or even worse from the bottom (as in Figure 11a), they can accept the condensate and debris from the steam main. The result is very wet and dirty steam reaching the equipment, which will affect performance in both the short and long term. The valve in Figure 11b should be positioned as near to the off-take as possible to minimize condensate lying in the branch line, if the plant is likely to be shutdown for any extended periods.

Figure 11a. Incorrect Steam Off-take (Spirax Sarco)

Figure 11b. Correct Steam Off-take (Spirax Sarco)

2.4.2 Drop leg Low points will also occur in branc h lines. The most common is a drop leg close to an isolating valve or a control valve (Figure 12). Condensate can accumulate on the upstream side of the closed valve, and then be propelled forward with the steam when the valve opens again consequently a drain point with a steam trap set is good practice just prior to the strainer and control valve.

Figure 12. Drop Leg Supplying Steam to a Heater (Spirax Sarco)

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