Recommended Velocities in Steam Systems
The steam velocity in a steam distribution system should be within certain limits to avoid excessive wear and tear
The steam velocities or speeds below are commonly recommended as acceptable for steam distribution systems:
| Steam System | Velocity | |
|---|---|---|
| (m/s) | (ft/s) | |
| Saturated Steam - high pressure | 25 - 40 | 82 - 131 |
| Saturated Steam - medium and low pressure | 30-40 | 99 - 131 |
| Saturated Steam at peak load | < 50 | < 164 |
| Steam and Water mix | < 25 | < 82 |
| Superheated Steam | 35 - 100 | 100 - 300 |
- Saturated steam - low pressure - is common for heating services and secondary process pipes.
- Saturated steam - high pressure - is common in powerhouse, boiler and main process lines.
- Superheated steam is common in power generation and turbine plants.
