Copper Piping in Steam System

Steve Garson_2

Copper has a very high coefficient of expansion. With the heat and cooling of steam heat, the copper changes size and eventually loosens the soldered joints and leaks. It is Steam 101 rule of thumb.

Copper is only OK below the water line.

Kevin_69

Copper Piping in Steam System

I just had my heating system upgraded to gas while keeping the original steam system. A couple of the runs to the radiators needed to be raised due to pitching problems so the contractor recommended replacing the pipes. When he did this, he replaced the pipes with copper because he said that it was easier to work with and just as good as the original piping. I have read in several places that it may not be ideal because of the drastic changes in temperature that may cause some of the joints to fail and leak steam. I am also concerned with the connections between the copper and the old cast iron since I believe I will have a corrosion problem with the dissimilar metals. Should I be concerned and ask him to replace the piping with cast iron?

Thanks,
Kevin

Steve Garson_6

Definitely replace the copper.

Kevin_69

How bad is it to use copper in a steam system? I need some ammo in case he comes up with a rebuttal to my request. I knew I had a bad feeling for a reason when he suggested it in the first place.

Thanks,
Kevin

gerry gill

some more info

http://www.heatinghelp.com/newPages/pdf/32_43_58.pdf

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Kevin_69

Thanks. Would there also be a problem if he used those new crimped joints versus soldered ones?

gerry gill

well, i'm told they

are rated for the temperature, but the rubber o-rings i would bet developes an issue as the years go on..i'm seeing a dry rotted car tire in my minds eye.

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