whats the temp on steam returns?

jim_14

So on a 2 pipe radiator after the steam condenses and turns to water what is the temp of that water usually? Im talking right at the return pipe where it meets the floor

Fred Harwood

Temp

Steam at sea level is 212. At 1,000 feet, about 210. Once it condenses and begins to move through uninsulated pipe, it cools quickly. The temp at any point on the uninsulated return depends on a bunch of things, but it should be much cooler than 210 a few feet from the insulated main. Condensate from a radiator in a two-pipe system can be anywhere from room temp to 190 or so, depending upon the amount of steam in the radiator.

jim_14

thanks for the info

I was curious b/c Im snaking some wire next to a return pipe and some wire on a steam supply pipe.

The wire will be right up against the pipes and i wanted to check and see if the plastic sheathing will melt next to those pipes.. BTW its telephone wire thin gauge stuff

Fred Harwood

Wiring

Most wiring sheathing is temp rated. In most cases, low-pressure steam temperature is not a problem. If you're worried, snip a length and wrap it around the actual steam pipe for an hour or so, and see what happens. Electrical house wiring (240/120 volts) always should be installed to code. If you don't know the code ...

Jim_35

wiring

This is low voltage wire so no code applies, as far as electric- woulnt even conider installing up against a steam pipe!