Steam heating (definition)

Steam heating — is a heating system in which heat is transferred through steam circulating through pipes and radiators. In steam heating, water in boiler or another heat generator, it is heated to the boiling point, turns into steam and then enters the radiators, where it gives off its heat to the room.

The main components of steam heating:

1. Boiler: Heats water until it turns into steam. Boilers can use different types of fuel (coal, gas, oil, electricity) and can be of different types (tube, hot water, etc.).
2. Steam pipes: Transfer steam from the boiler to the radiators and back. The pipes are usually made of metal and can be of different diameters depending on the needs of the system.
3. Radiators: They receive hot steam and give off heat to the room. Radiators can be made of various materials, such as cast iron, steel or aluminum.
4. Condensate traps: Devices that remove condensate (water formed when steam cools) from the system, preventing damage and corrosion.
5. Expansion tank: Provides compensation for changes in water volume due to temperature changes, although in steam systems its function can be partially replaced by other components.
6. Valves and regulators: Control steam pressure and temperature and ensure safe and efficient operation of the system.

Features of steam heating installation:

1. System design: Designing a steam heating system requires taking into account the specifics of the heat flow, pressure and temperature of the steam. It is necessary to calculate the power, pipe diameter and location of the radiators.
2. Boiler installation: The boiler must be installed in a specially designated room that ensures its safety and access for maintenance. Connection to steam pipes must be carried out in accordance with technical requirements.
3. Installation of pipelines: Pipelines must be installed with slopes to allow for condensate drainage and to prevent air locks. The key aspect is to ensure that the connections are tight.
4. Installation of radiators: Radiators should be installed at a height that allows the steam heating to transfer heat efficiently. They are usually installed under windows to compensate for heat loss.
5. Commissioning works: After the system has been installed, it must be tested and adjusted. This includes checking for leaks, adjusting the steam pressure and temperature, and checking the operation of all system elements.
6. Maintenance and control: Steam heating requires regular maintenance, including checking the water level in the boiler, checking the condition of the radiators and pipes, and cleaning the steam traps.

Advantages of steam heating:

• Efficiency: Steam heating can be more efficient in larger buildings and industrial facilities due to the high heat output of steam.
• Fast warming up: Steam heating ensures rapid response of the system to temperature changes, ensuring prompt heating of premises.
• Even heat distribution: Steam radiators provide uniform heat throughout the room.

Disadvantages:

• Difficulty of installation: Installation of steam heating requires more complex technical solutions compared to water heating.
• Increased maintenance requirements: The need for regular monitoring of steam pressure and temperature, as well as cleaning of steam traps.

Steam heating has been widely used in the past and is still used in some large buildings and industrial facilities where efficient heating with high heat output is required.