Selection of purging medium for steam condensate pipes
Thread Content
After the installation of the steam condensate pipes is completed, the pressure test has been passed. For purging, should we use water or steam? According to GB50235, water cleaning should be used; however, since the condensate pipes are also high-temperature pipes, steam purging can be employed as it is more convenient and practical. How do others handle this? I would appreciate any advice!
What medium is used for pressure testing? Generally, it should be water; drain the water stored inside before purging, as this will allow any sediment or debris to be removed ； Next, steam cleaning is carried out to thoroughly remove any sediment, slag, and other debris remaining in the pipes. During this cleaning process, a wooden hammer is used to strike areas such as welds and elbows; if TIG welding is used for the base layer, this step can be omitted, thereby preventing impurities from clogging the drain valves after the system is put into use.
Using water is for cleaning, while blowing is to remove the water.
Basically, our process is as follows: 1. Drainage, 2. Heating the pipes, 3. Purging.
It’s not about understanding the process; what is discussed is the selection of the purging medium and the reasons for that choice.
Purging is usually done with steam; using water for rinsing may not achieve the same effect as steam purging