flow in open condensate return and plumbing drainage systems is gravitational.

The flow in an
open cooling tower water system is forced. The pipe sections of an open network system are
either all supply or all return. A closed network system includes both supply and return sections.
A closed network system begins with a first supply section and ends with a last return section.
Open Network Systems
Pumps and static heads are used to force circulation in Open Systems except as noted
Steam supply
Open steam condensate return (gravitational)
Closed condensate return
Cooling tower water (partially gravitational)
Fuel oil supply
Fuel oil return
Gasoline supply
Fuel gas supply
Domestic cold water supply
Domestic hot water supply
Storm sewer return (gravitational)
Sanitary sewer return (gravitational)
Sanitary vents (gravitational)
Closed Network Systems
Closed systems apply mainly to liquids. Examples of closed network systems include
Chilled water
HVAC hot water
High temperature hot water
Glycols
Brines
Supply-Return Systems
The flow arrangements in closed piping networks can be:
Two-pipes, direct-return
Two-pipes, reverse-return
Primary-secondary
Primary-Secondary Systems
Network arrangements can be combinations of direct return