DIRECTION OF STEAM TRAVEL

JBB

My recently installed steam boiler has been piped with the steam feed from the boiler to the header feeding away from the equalizer then to the mains. Should the steam direction go toward the equalizer to avoid blocking condensate from returning? I am having alot of steam hammer! Thanks; JB

EdTheHeaterMan

The manufacture's instructions is pretty specific on the near boiler piping. Post a photo of the piping from far enough back so we can see the pipes from floor to ceiling. at least 3 different sides

Long Beach Ed

Ed's advice above is best, of course.

In good piping practice, the steam risers come off the boiler and enter the header. After a 12 inch nipple, the takeoffs for each main are connected to the header, with all or all but the last preferably at 45-degrees to the floor. Then the equalizer departs from the header with no horizontal reduction or with an eccentric fitting.

…unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer or a qualified fitter.

When we deviate from recommended or good practice, we may encounter problems. We may not. Compromises may be required and they have to be made with knowledge and experience and with a complete understanding of the entire system.

If you post a few pictures, someone here will diagnose your hammering problem I'm sure.

109A_5

An example.