The pipework system must be sufficiently flexible to accommodate the movements of the components as they expand. For this example an approximate expansion of 330 mm is indicated.
Where the diagonal temperature difference line of 250☌ cuts the horizontal pipe length line at 100 m, drop a vertical line down. Temperature difference is 265 - 15☌ = 250☌. Find the approximate expansion from 15☌, of 100 metres of carbon steel pipework used to distribute steam at 265☌. If the pipe is installed at 10☌, determine the expansion using Equation 10.4.1.Īlternatively, the chart in Figure 10.4.1 can be used for finding the approximate expansion of a variety of steel pipe lengths - see Example 10.4.2 for explanation of use. The amount of the expansion is readily calculated using Equation 10.4.1, or read from an appropriate chart such as Figure 10.4.1.Ī 30 m length of carbon steel pipe is to be used to transport steam at 4 bar g (152☌). This will create stress upon certain areas within the distribution system, such as pipe joints, which, in the extreme, could fracture.
It follows that they expand, especially in length, with an increase from ambient to working temperatures. Pipes carrying hot fluids such as water or steam operate at higher temperatures. All pipes will be installed at ambient temperature.
