7/30/22, 4:59 PM Learn about steam | Spirax Sarco

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Our blog on the latest topics and thought leadership on all things steam

INTRODUCTION
The introduction of steam as a useful and powerful purveyor of energy. It discusses the versatile uses and
benefits of this ubiquitous vapour; and the ways in which it is produced and distributed to achieve maximum
performance and economy for the end user.

STEAM ENGINEERING PRINCIPLES & HEAT TRANSFER

Properties of various types of steam are considered, along with basic heat transfer principles and how to
calculate consumption rates for process applications. Entropy is tackled in simple terms, removing unnecessary
fears often associated with the subject.

THE BOILER HOUSE

Various types of boilers and fuels are discussed, alongside the best ways in which to get the best out of this
important part of the steam plant. All associated boiler equipment is considered, including basic deaerator and
accumulator theory.

FLOWMETERING
Fluid characteristics and flow theory (including Bernoulli's theorem and Reynolds' numbers) are introduced and
developed to provide basic metering theory and techniques. Different meter types, instrumentation and
installation practice are also discussed.

BASIC CONTROL THEORY

Control theory is discussed from fundamental proportional action to PID control. The dynamic of the simple
control loop is discussed, alongside practical issues of choosing the best system for the application, and
installation and commissioning issues.

CONTROL HARDWARE: ELECTRIC/PNEUMATIC ACTUATION

Control valve capacities and characteristics are investigated, along with theory and practical advice on how to
size them for water and steam systems. Actuators, positioners, and controllers are introduced plus their overall
effect on the control loop.

CONTROL HARDWARE: SELF-ACTING ACTUATION

Basic self-acting control theory is discussed, alongside the different types of direct-acting and pilot-operated
valves, controllers, and applications for the proper selection of temperature and pressure control of steam and
water systems.

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7/30/22, 4:59 PM Learn about steam | Spirax Sarco

CONTROL APPLICATIONS
A brief summary of, and advice on, temperature, pressure, flow and level control methods to suit various types
of steam applications, with consideration to surplussing control, differential pressure control, and cascade
control and installation thereof.

SAFETY VALVES
Arguably, the most important subject in the generation, distribution and use of steam. Why are safety valves
required? What different types are available and how are they selected, sized and installed? Other protection
devices are also shown in some detail.

STEAM DISTRIBUTION
Efficient distribution gets clean dry steam to apparatus at the right pressure. Pipe sizing, essential drainage
techniques, pipe support and expansion, air venting, and heat transfer calculations are included to help the
system designer and practitioner.

STEAM TRAPS AND STEAM TRAPPING

How steam traps work and why steam traps are necessary. All is explained in this block, along with the different
types, where they are used, and how they are selected. Air venting theory and applications are touched upon,
along with steam trap maintenance.

PIPELINE ANCILLARIES
These are often neglected to save costs; but strainers, stop valves, check valves, separators, gauge glasses and
vacuum breakers all have their part to play in an efficient steam system. This block explains why, and explores
the different types available.

CONDENSATE REMOVAL
Proper condensate removal is essential to heat exchanger efficiency and long service life. An explanation of how
heat exchangers operate. It introduces the subject of stall, and why and how the best trapping device is selected
to maximise system efficiency.

CONDENSATE RECOVERY
Relaying condensate back to the boiler house reduces costs. Pipe sizing and layout is discussed for drain lines,
discharge lines, and pumped lines. The effects of lift and backpressure are explained; and how to reduce overall
costs by utilising flash steam.

DESUPERHEATING
Why is it necessary to desuperheat steam? What types of desuperheater exist, where are they used, and how are
they installed? Basic types and more sophisticated types of desuperheater and their applications are discussed
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