Pipeline issues in vertical tanks
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A vertical atmospheric pressure tank is used to collect the condensate water from the steam heat exchanger. Should the condensate pipe extend below the liquid level? Will this cause excessive vibration? If it is extended below the liquid surface, should a elbow be added at the lower part of the tube, or should it be open directly facing the bottom of the tank? Which approach is better?
This depends on the normal operating level and the low-low level of the equipment; the water pipe should extend below the low-low level, and there is no need to use elbows.
If the condensate is recovered in a closed system, there is no need to extend it below the liquid surface. Under these operating conditions, the condensate usually contains a certain amount of steam, and extending it underwater can easily cause water hammer.
It is recommended to extend it below the liquid surface, but a fixed support must be installed
Is the condensate collection tank open?
Our standard practice here is to insert the nozzle 100-150mm into the upper head
The condensate enters the storage tank (or buffer tank) above the liquid level, which allows for vapor-liquid separation or flashing to occur.
Are there any relevant regulatory requirements?
Not really; it’s just a judgment based on work experience