"Traditionally, the engineering of steam-to-liquid heat transfer systems has been done by using the maximum available steam pressure to select the smallest and least expensive heat exchanger. The control valve, steam trap and other ancillary equipment would then be selected using the operating conditions of this heat exchanger. While this method works, there is a better way.

It is now possible to reduce both initial equipment costs and operating costs. This is done by selecting the components of the entire system at the same time. Your Fluid Handling Representative can now optimize your steam-to-liquid heat transfer systems with each component working together in a manner that optimizes the system as a whole."

"In a two-pipe system, steam supply to the heating units and condensate return from heating units are through separate pipes. Air accumulation in piping and heating units discharges from the system through the open vent on the condensate pump receiver. Piping and heating units must be installed with proper pitch to provide gravity flow of all condensate to the pump receiver."

"Anyone who has experienced cavitation damage to a pump impeller, shaft, or seals knows that problems relating to net positive suction head (NPSH) can also mean "not pumping so hot." To prevent damaging cavitation, it is necessary that engineers clearly understand the critical importance of NPSH when selecting pumps for steam condensate systems.

This article also discusses the various options available to an engineer to adjust the pertinent factors of NPSH to ensure proper system operation. The types of specially designed low NPSH pumps for condensate service are also reviewed along with their benefits and drawbacks."

"Heat transfer units that use steam to produce hot water are known as indirect heaters. They are often shell and tube type heat exchangers and are generally referred to as converters, hot water generators, and instantaneous heaters. The ASME Code for Unfired Pressure Vessels is the nationally recognized authority prescribing their construction for given temperatures and pressures. The term used varies with the heating medium and the manner of application. When these heaters use steam as the heat source they are usually called steam to water converters."

This book is intended to simplify the selection of components for a steam heating system.