Safety considerations for condensation-induced water hammer in steam piping systems

Journal Article · Sat Dec 31 00:00:00 EST 1994 · Transactions of the American Nuclear Society

OSTI ID:76002

Squarer, D; Roidt, R M; McCall, T B

The phenomenon of condensation-induced water hammer may occur when subcooled water and steam interact and form a water slug by rapid steam condensation, and the slug is accelerated through the piping by the full system pressure. The sudden deceleration of the slug by existing liquid in the system or any part of the piping system can produce large pressure pulses that can, by themselves or in combination with other loads, rupture the piping system. This paper describes the results of a study on condensation-induced water hammer in a specific piping geometry and lists recommendations that when implemented will prevent piping system failure.

• OSTI ID: 76002
• Report Number(s): CONF-940602-; ISSN 0003-018X; TRN: 95:003867-0179
• Journal Information: Transactions of the American Nuclear Society, Vol. 70; Conference: 35. annual meeting of the American Nuclear Society, New Orleans, LA (United States), 11-16 Jun 1994; Other Information: PBD: 1994
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

22 NUCLEAR REACTOR TECHNOLOGY
STEAM SYSTEMS
WATER HAMMER
HYDRAULICS
FLUID FLOW
PIPES
FAILURES
REACTOR COMPONENTS
STEAM LINES