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Connecting Steam Radiator

TheDavidDDuncan
TheDavidDDuncan Member Posts: 8
in Strictly Steam
IMG_1342.jpeg

What is needed when connecting the radiators? Pipe dope, wicking thread…? Thanks

Comments

  • ethicalpaul
    ethicalpaul Member Posts: 5,870

    Nothing, just clean mating surfaces on the radiator and valve half of that union

    NJ Steam Homeowner.
    Free NJ and remote steam advice: https://heatinghelp.com/find-a-contractor/detail/new-jersey-steam-help/
    See my sight glass boiler videos: https://bit.ly/3sZW1el

  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 23,883
    https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1802408#Comment_1802408

    Clean them No sandpaper. No abrasives. Just clean (you can use the scrubby side of a nylon dish sponge… but nothing else).

    Then make sure that the radiator is perfectly lined up with the valve. When you go to put it together — hand tight on that union nut, and perhaps half a turn more. No more than that.

    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
    TheDavidDDuncan
  • STEAM DOCTOR
    STEAM DOCTOR Member Posts: 2,081

    And of course, run the system and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, just blame the kids.

    EdTheHeaterManTheDavidDDuncan
  • STEAM DOCTOR
    STEAM DOCTOR Member Posts: 2,081

    Amd protect the floor.

    EdTheHeaterManTheDavidDDuncan
  • EdTheHeaterMan
    EdTheHeaterMan Member Posts: 8,254

    That connection is called a Ground Joint Union

    A ground joint union comprises of an angle that is cut into the union to make the two sections meet. It increases the surface area at the joint allowing seating properly. It is a metal to metal connection that makes an airtight seal. You must have the matching pieces to make that connection. The connection has a precision machined mating surface. No sealant necessary.

    If that radiator is a replacement with a spud in the radiator that does not match the valve part of the union coming out of the floor, then you need to purchase a complete new valve with matching spud.

    Edward Young Retired

    After you make that expensive repair and you still have the same problem, What will you check next?

    TheDavidDDuncan

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