Is it safer to insulate high-temperature steam pipes or not to insulate them?
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This post was last edited by jinqhuaxz on 2017-1-17 at 06:51. It deals with large-diameter (24” DIA.) high-temperature steam pipes operating at 425°C and 1.0 MPa, with a length of around 30 meters, as shown in the image below. The question is whether it is safer to use insulated or uninsulated pipes for these purposes; the ambient temperature ranges from -30°C in winter to +30°C in summer. The main concern is the safety regarding thermal stress strength.
It does not retain heat, resulting in significant heat loss; it can also easily cause burns. Personally, I think heat retention is better.
It’s essential to keep it insulated, as there is a lot of heat loss at this temperature
Of course, it’s for thermal insulation and safety reasons; pipes and equipment whose outer surface temperature exceeds 50°C are required to have insulation. Additionally, when the temperature is so high, if the pipes lack insulation, the thermal stress on them increases, resulting in a shorter lifespan.
Should safety and energy efficiency be taken into account?
To maintain heat, one approach is to reduce heat loss, and the other is to prevent scalding accidents.
Someone asked: It’s mainly about the safety of thermal stress strength
No insulation, high thermal stress, and even less safe