Basic Baseray question

delcrossv

In doing a hot water loop off a cast iron steam boiler (no heat exchanger) pushing cast iron Baseray convectors, shouldn't I be doing the piping in black iron? Wouldn't I get a dissimilar metals problem with copper piping in this application?

Thanks!

offdutytech

You can use a brass/bronze coupling, ball valve, etc to make the transition from black iron to copper pipe. If you are making a hot water baseboard loop off of the steam boiler I would suggest having a few isolation valves. This gives you the ability to isolate the two systems and makes a service work easier. A wye strainer from the boiler to hot water loop would also help in keeping large particles out of the baseboard. Sure it may cost a bit more upfront, but save in labor down the road. 

pecmsg

Please concentrate on the Piping and Pumping recommendations. It can be easily screwed up.

delcrossv

@offdutytech Thanks, but there's nothing wrong with doing it all in black, yes? Thanks for the strainer idea!

Jamie Hall

delcrossv said:

@offdutytech Thanks, but there's nothing wrong with doing it all in black, yes? Thanks for the strainer idea!

Nothing at all. I'd probably do it that way -- but I don't mind threading pipe.

offdutytech

You can certainly do it in black iron. Copper my have a bit more longevity and be easier to do if you don't have a pipe threader. Just make sure that you plan the project out and draw it before you start. It would save you some headaches as well

EBEBRATT-Ed

I would use copper. Especially if going above the boiler water line with no hx. Better chance of no leaks but either one is fine. You have to use a bronze pump though

delcrossv

EBEBRATT-Ed said:

I would use copper. Especially if going above the boiler water line with no hx. Better chance of no leaks but either one is fine. You have to use a bronze pump though

All below the waterline (basement loop). Thinking a B&G 100- I've had good luck with those. They do make a bronze version .