2 replies to this topic

Hi, Why steam is put in places where there is a flange leak in the hydrocarbon service pipe lines?

[djack77494]

Steam acts as a diluent. It helps dispurse any leaking combustible vapors and also acts to exclude oxygen.

[imran.idris]

Agree with djack as to dilute the hydrocarbon presence in the leakage area so as to prevent any hazard. Flammable limits of hydrocarbons are overcome by introducing steam.
Additionally, steam is also used through spargers on hot spots on furnaces (primary reformer, secondary reformer) just to mitigate the effect of high temperature.

Regards,
Imran Idris
http://forums.thepetrostreet.com/