Tip - How To Install Your Steam Coil

Installation, Operation and Maintenance Instructions

In steam coils, successful operation and a long, trouble-free service life depend on:

1. The manner of installation, including the design of coil mounting and piping with particular emphasis on trapping and air venting
2. Operating conditions that are within design parameters.
3. The method of operation.
4. The thoroughness and frequency of cleaning required. Following these simple guidelines will help you achieve maximum coil performance.

Receipt and Storage

1. Upon receipt, inspect coils and notify carrier immediately of any damage sustained in transit.
2. If coils are not installed immediately, store under cover in a heated area free of potential damage from personnel and/or equipment.

Installation

• Support coils and piping individually to prevent undue strains on the steam and condensate connections. Use swing joints or flexible connections for freedom of movement.
• Steam and condensate pipes should be the same size as coil connections. Maintain connection size from the coil back to the steam main and from the coil to the steam trap takeoff.
• Install a drip trap prior to the coils (and before a control valve if there is one) to prevent the introduction of condensate.
• Install strainers with blowdown valves before all control valves and traps.
• To avoid hunting and maintain control, use only modified linear or equal percentage (vee-port) valves when a modu-lating control valve regulates the steam supply. Consult for proper applications.
• Never oversize control valves. Bigger is not better.
• Install a vacuum breaker in the steam piping prior to the coil to prevent retention of condensate during shutdown. Also install a vacuum breaker on the downstream side of the coil when steam pressure is to be modulated. If you use check valves as vacuum breakers, they should be 15-degree swing checks.
• Provide venting of non-condensable gases individually on each coil to ensure maximum heat transfer and minimum internal corrosion. In order of effectiveness, venting can be with a fixed orifice bleed, independent thermostatic vent or by using a float and thermostatic steam trap.