SteamPedia

The Complete Steam Guide


Why are steam distribution lines provided with expansion loops?

Metal pipes when subjected to temperature variations expand or contract longitudinally and around their circumference. Steam distribution pipelines are subjected to very high temperatures and expand. Expansion loops, elbows, bellows, z bends accommodate and direct free expansion of the lines. If there is no provision to allow for free expansion to occur, excessive stresses in the lines can result in damage or displacement.