What is a common cause of water hammer in steam lines?

Water hammer in steam lines is commonly caused by condensate collecting in low spots of the piping system. When steam travels through the pipes, it can condense into water, especially in areas with inadequate slope or where the steam cools down. This condensate needs to be removed efficiently to prevent it from building up. When the steam encounters the trapped water, it can lead to a rapid pressure surge, resulting in the characteristic knocking or banging sound of water hammer.

Efficient steam piping design includes features that encourage proper drainage, ensuring that condensate does not accumulate in low points. The steam system must also be designed to prevent these low spots from forming pressure imbalances that can contribute to the phenomenon of water hammer. This understanding emphasizes the critical need for maintaining proper slope and drainage in steam systems to prevent operational issues and potential damage.