Article 19 Steam pipe systems

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply steam pipes and fittings connected thereto through which steam may pass shall be so designed and constructed as to withstand the maximum working stresses to which they may be subjected, with an adequate factor of safety, having regard to—

Every steam pipe or fitting for every such vessel shall, prior to being put into service for the first time, be subjected to a hydraulic test to a pressure suitably in excess of the working pressure having regard to the requirements of paragraph (1) above.

In every such vessel every such steam pipe or fitting shall be maintained in an efficient condition.

In every such vessel steam pipes shall be adequately supported and in such a manner to avoid damage due to variation in temperature, vibration or otherwise.

In every such vessel means shall be provided for draining every steam range to ensure that the interior of each pipe in the range is kept free of water and that water hammer action will not occur under any foreseeable service conditions.

In every such vessel steam fittings, steam pipes, hot exhaust pipes and other hot surfaces shall be adequately insulated.

In every such vessel steam and exhaust pipes shall not be led through hold spaces unless adequately protected.

In every such vessel, where a steam range may receive steam from any source at a higher pressure than it can withstand with an adequate factor of safety, an efficient reducing valve, relief valve and pressure gauge shall be fitted.

In every such vessel flanges in steam pipe systems shall not be situated above or in the vicinity of switchboards or other electrical equipment except that where this is not practicable provision shall be made to prevent leakage damaging the equipment.

In every such vessel, in exhaust steam systems of machinery fitted with positive shut-off valves where the systems are not designed for the maximum inlet pressure, relief valves of sufficient capacity shall be fitted.