Condensate Pipes Sizes

Overview

Engineering reference data for Condensate Pipes Sizes in piping systems.

Key Formulas

Continuity

$A_1 v_1 = A_2 v_2$

Mass conservation in pipe flow.

Pressure Drop

$\Delta P = f \frac{L}{D} \frac{\rho v^2}{2}$

Darcy-Weisbach equation.

Pipe Area

$A = \frac{\pi D^2}{4}$

Cross-sectional area of a pipe.

Variables

Symbol	Description	Unit
$D$	Pipe diameter	m
$v$	Flow velocity	m/s
$\Delta P$	Pressure drop	Pa
$f$	Friction factor	—

Design Considerations

When sizing condensate return lines in steam distribution systems, remember that the maximum condensate flow occurs during plant startup when pipes and equipment are being heated. A key rule of thumb:

The condensate load used to design condensate pipe lines should be twice the maximum production load to account for startup conditions and condensate surge.

Condensate Flow Capacity by Pipe Size

Note: Pipe sizes shown are nominal bore in mm. Inch equivalents: 15mm (1/2"), 20mm (3/4"), 25mm (1"), 32mm (1 1/4"), 40mm (1 1/2"), 50mm (2"), 65mm (2 1/2"), 80mm (3").

Equipment Outlet Pipe Sizing

Interactive Charts

References

• Original Source