Steam pipe fittings connect steam piping sections or other steam equipments together. These fittings are primarily made for high-temperature and high-pressure steam operation. Selection and proper installation of steam pipe fittings are essential for the safety and efficiency of steam plant operations.
Here are some common types of steam pipe fittings:
Elbows allow the piping system to make changes in direction. They come in various angles such as 180 degrees, 45 degrees or 90 degrees to suit diverse piping layouts.
Nevertheless, they have drawbacks such as being prone to corrosion. Reducers are fittings that connect steam pipes with different diameters.
Other types of steam line reducers are used in the systems and installations of the electric power industry.
Furthermore, steam line reducers are used for connecting the different sizes of pipes.
Tees are used for cutting steam lines from the main one in different directions.
Other terms used in the system are branches, tees, or cross. The distribution of steam to different parts of the system as well as connecting auxiliary equipment can not take place without using branches.
Couplings join two pipes in a straight line without turning. They make it possible to disconnect the pipes as well as join them in a straight line.
You can also use couplings when A fitting is used in pipe systems to connect straight pipe sections
The choice of steam pipe fittings is crucial as it depends on the pressure under which the steam operates, its temperature, the kind of material compatible with other system fluids as well as steam and the rate at which it should flow. For the integrity and safety of any steam pipes network, proper installation and maintenance practices cannot be ignored.
