In this article, I will share some of the factors that one should consider before selecting a type of pipe joint in a steam distribution system.
The steam pipeline needs joint whether you like it or not. The joints that one will fix in the steam pipelines are important.
Without the joints then there is no way one will be able to form a steam distribution system.
Connecting the steam pipelines is what makes the distribution system.
If you want to know more about the design requirement of a distribution system, you should read the article below.
You might like this: 6 Design Requirements Of Steam Distribution System.
With that much said, let me share what you need to know about the selection of the type of pipe joint in a steam distribution network.
Factors determining the selection of the type of pipe joint in a steam distribution system
1. The type of pipe material used.
When selecting the type of pipe joint to use in a steam distribution system, this is one of the factors that one should consider.
You have to know that pipe materials differ in strength, durability and malleability.
Malleable steel pipes can be a good choice because they have excellent malleability.
Though this is not the only material used, we have malleable cast iron, copper, aluminium alloys and stainless steel.
Before one thinks of using any type of pipe joint in a steam distribution system the type of pipe material in use is a very important factor that should be kept into account.
If the pipe material used in the steam distribution system is easy to bend, cut and shape as one is pleased, then it will be easier to use any type of pipe joint.
2. The layout of the steam distribution system.
The layout of the steam distribution system is also one of the factors that one should determine before selecting any type of pipe joint to use in a steam distribution system.
The steam that is produced needs to be supplied to different points of application.
This will form a big network of steam pipes passing around. It will greatly influence the types of pipe joints that will be used.
If the layout of the steam distribution system is going to be complex because the steam has to be conveyed to different places then the type of pipe joints should be well thought off.
Some types of pipe joints will make it easier to bend the steam lines in any way one pleases (rubber expansion joints) while some will only work on steam pipelines that are straight.
So, the layout also plays a big role in the type of pipe joints that will be selected.
3. The ease of implementing these joints.
When determining the type of pipe joints one will use in a steam distribution system, ease of putting these pipe joints is the factor that should be considered.
Not all steam pipe joints will be easier to implement some will require more work than others.
It’s obviously hard to implement metallic expansion joints compared to rubber ones.
It’s always best to select pipe joints that will be easier to implement since it will save time and it’s going to be cheaper to implement them.
Copper and aluminium alloy steam pipes are good when it comes to implementing the joints because they are malleable.
If there is a type of pipe joint that is more effective and easy to implement then that is the type one should go for.
There is no need to select pipe joints that are hard to implement simply because they look fancy yet they take so much time to put them into use.
Save time and do something else better to ensure the steam distribution system works to perfection.
4. The durability of the selected pipe joints.
When selecting a type of pipe joint to use in a distribution system, how long these pipe joints can last is another significant factor that one should consider.
The type of pipe joint selected for use should be durable enough.
You don’t want to use a type of pipe joint that is going to make the whole steam distribution system have issues of leakages.
If the type of pipe joint selected is weak there is a chance within a few months when the steam line is working there will be many leakages to fix.
When the pipe joints are weak, they won’t be able to withstand the pressure that the steam is conveyed with.
Some pipes will detach from each other, there will be massive leakages and energy will be lost.
Some types of pipe joints like rubber and fabric are easier to implement but they tend to be weak.
Metallic expansion joints tend to be the strongest ones.
You may think that taking the shortcut is going to save you time but without considering the durability of these pipe joints is going to cost you a lot.
It’s better to select the appropriate pipe joint that is going to be durable as long as the steam is distributed.
It will save you time, money and resources.
5. The strength of the selected pipe joints.
The strength of the selected pipe joint should also be considered before implementing it on a steam distribution system.
This is a very important factor to consider because the entire steam distribution system depends on the strength of the type of pipe joints selected to stand still.
The steam pipelines will be bolted against walls or surfaces that will hold them still, but if the joints are weak the strength of these pipe joints won’t hold together when the steam distribution system is at work.
Don’t use a rubber expansion joint when you are supposed to use a metallic expansion joint.
Don’t be surprised when you find these steam lines falling off when the steam pressure is higher.
So, do all you can to shape the steam pipelines the way you want but ensure that you put measures that improve the strength of these pipes joints.
To improve the strength of the pipe joints selected one can weld the joint or change the expansion method.
Final thoughts
The type of pipe joint selected to be used in a steam line is important because the entire steam distribution system depends on these joints to work effectively.
If the type of pipe joint selected has the factors that I have shared in this article then you are good to go.
The steam distribution system is going to work sufficiently, and leakages and frequent maintenance will be reduced.
Before selecting any pipe joint to be used in a steam distribution system ensure that you are selecting the right one.
Know where you are supposed to use metallic, rubber or fabric expansion joints.
The expansion pipe joints are also used to reduce pipe loads at connections to equipment such as pumps.
If you have any questions about what I have talked about in this article, leave a comment and I will get back to you.
Thanks for reading, see you in my next article.
