Steam Solutions
Industrial Solutions
Rental Boiler Solutions
Steam Solutions
Industrial Solutions
Rental Boiler Solutions
While boiler condensate is typically harmless, it can reduce drainage efficiency and cause corrosion or contamination without proper intervention. A drip leg is the first line of defense against potential condensate damage.
A drip leg is a vertical piping pocket that collects condensate to drain it from the boiler equipment. It consists of two components — a section of piping that drops below the surrounding pipes to gather the condensate and a trap that enables it to exit without allowing the steam to escape.
Drip legs leverage gravity to collect condensate and are suitable for installation in several locations. Placing one just before the point where the steam reaches its final destination facilitates condensate draining and enables the formation of pure steam. You can also install drip legs at the end of the steam main at 300- to 500-foot intervals. Additionally, you should have drip legs wherever there is an upward elevation in the steam piping.
A proper drip leg installation prevents water and impurities from entering the boiler and causing extensive damage via clogging and corrosion. It also helps the boiler operate at maximum efficiency, which conserves energy and reduces costs. Moreover, drip legs are essential safety features that ensure only clean steam and fuel flow through the system.
Some people use the terms “drip leg” and “sediment trap” interchangeably, but they are two separate types of equipment. A drip leg collects condensate in a piping system. Installing a sediment trap on fuel piping prevents rust or debris from clogging a gas appliance burner and causing a malfunction.
While a drip leg can capture moisture, it is not suitable for catching small debris particles. A sediment trap is a more effective solution when moisture and larger pieces of debris are present.
Indications of the need for a drip leg include water, grit, dust or dirt inside the piping system. In some areas, plumbing codes mandate the installation of drip legs, although these components are not a universal requirement. Drip legs are crucial in equipment that experiences several other issues.
Since a drip leg’s primary function is to remove impurities, a high volume of water or sediment within the boiler equipment can indicate the need for an installation. If there is an existing drip leg, it could be malfunctioning and require a repair or replacement.
Frequent fuel line or steam system blockages are other common issues a drip leg could rectify. The device can trap debris before clogs can form.
An inefficiently operating boiler overworks its components, causing undue wear that leads to more frequent replacement. This situation can occur when impurities enter the system. A drip leg installation can stop potentially harmful substances and ensure the unit is running at peak capacity while maximizing components’ longevity.
Excess condensate in the steam line can eventually lead to corrosion. A properly configured drip leg can effectively reduce corrosion formation. Factors to consider when configuring the equipment’s drip legs include the pocket diameter, pocket depth, take-off location and mud leg depth.
A sulfur smell coming from a boiler typically indicates bacteria growth coming from within the piping. Installing a drip leg can keep bacteria and other impurities out, eliminating the unpleasant odor.
As the only company in Cincinnati, Ohio, that sells, rents, maintains, repairs and installs boilers and complete turnkey packages, Smith Hughes is the best source for all drip leg-related applications. We also offer these services nationwide. With over 75 years of relevant experience, we can detect and address any boiler issue and ensure your equipment operates efficiently.
We will evaluate your equipment to determine whether a drip leg installation will correct your boiler issue. Our professionals can also examine existing drip legs to ensure they’re functioning correctly and performing the vital role of collecting moisture and draining off accumulated condensate.
Our drip leg services will maximize your boiler’s operating efficiency. You can experience increased confidence after confirming that your heating system is working to capacity. Our inspection can also optimize the output of various manufacturing processes, boosting productivity and eliminating costly downtime.
If you’re concerned about the need for a drip leg in your boiler system, the experienced Smith Hughes team is ready to assist you. Take the next step and contact us to request additional information today.
