The Steamboating Forum

All,

I used regualr black iron for my exhaust last season. I am re-plumbing now so can change if it makes sense. I will be insulating so am not unduly concerned about appearance. Is galvanized a better choice ?

jon

Hi Jon,

Galvanized pipe for exhaust. If you're simply ejecting over the side - yes. For condensing systems - no.

Galvanized coatings can come loose (especially if the pipe is bent) and when they do it is usually thick shards that could find their way back to the feedpump check-valves and foul them.

-Ron

so stick with black iron or copper ?

Jon,

Yes, that is all I would suggest using for condensing.

-Ron

Also note that insulating the exhaust piping does nothing for steam plant economy, in fact it is a little detrimental to steam plant efficiency, but only slightly. Insulation for personel protection is the only technical reason that I know of with any merit.

Hey Fred,

I was actually doing it just to minimize the burn possibility, trying to make it a little..more.user friendly

Jon