connection to main

jonny23

Having my steam boiler replaced. This is a one pipe, parallel flow (I believe), gravity return system. Right now there is a single system riser which connects to a tee that then feeds the mains to the left and right. Several contractors have come to look at the job. Some suggested 2 separate takeoffs to feed the left and right main separately OR a single system riser that splits into a Y. Is this correct and can someone explain what the need for this is?

STEAM DOCTOR

Bullhead T

What could potentially happen with the current setup is that the steam and condensate that hits the back of the T can bounce back toward the boiler and cause pressure and water fluctuation problems. My hands are getting tired from beating the drums but the most important thing is to hire a competent installer who knows how to size boiler by measuring radiators and how to properly install the boiler and connected piping.

JStar

Steam

Agreed. You want to eliminate any bullheaded tees.



You also want to have each main supplied from its own pipe off the header. This will ensure proper distribution, and low steam velocity, which means greater water/steam separation. Dry steam is happy steam.

Jamie Hall

Perhaps a little clearer...

The setup you really want to have is a header pipe (preferably a drop header; see "The Lost Art of Steam Heating" for more information; if you don't have the book, it's worth getting -- see the "Shop" tab).  This is a larger diameter pipe (a size or two, at least, larger than the riser(s) ) which is almost -- but not quite -- horizontal.  Starting at the high end, you connect -- in this order -- one or two risers from the boiler (probably just one -- but look at, read, and follow the instructions for the boiler), then two takeoffs, one for the left main and one for the right main.  Then, at the low end, the equalizer connection back to the wet return for the boiler.