Steam Header: Industrial Steam Distribution Manifold

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Steam Header

Definition

The Steam Header is a critical component of steam distribution systems, serving as a central collection and distribution point for steam generated by boilers or other steam sources. It functions as a manifold that consolidates steam from multiple inlets and then distributes it through multiple outlets to various equipment, processes, or heating zones throughout a facility. This ensures balanced steam pressure and flow to all connected systems. The header is typically constructed from carbon steel or stainless steel, with material grades such as 20# to 12Cr1MoV per GB/T 5310, depending on operating temperature and pressure. It is designed for operating pressures of 1.0–1.6 MPa and design temperatures of 200–350°C (GB/T 16507), with higher temperatures requiring alloy steel. Nominal diameters range from DN50 to DN600 (ISO 6708), and the number of outlets can be customized from 2 to 12. Wall thickness varies from 5 to 30 mm (ASME B36.10), and end connections are available in flanged, welded, or threaded types per ASME B16.5. Surface treatment follows ISO 8501-1 with blast cleaning to Sa2.5–Sa3. Hydrostatic test pressure is 1.5 times the design pressure, typically 1.5–2.4 MPa (GB/T 16507). Weight ranges from 50 to 2000 kg depending on size and material. These values are reference ranges; verify model-specific specifications with the manufacturer.

Working Principle

Steam enters the header through one or more inlet connections from steam generators. Inside the header, steam pressure equalizes across the chamber. The steam then exits through multiple outlet connections, each typically equipped with isolation valves, to supply different downstream processes or equipment. The header maintains consistent pressure and acts as a buffer to accommodate fluctuations in steam demand.

Common Materials

Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Design Temperature	200–350 °C	Above 350°C requires alloy steelGB/T 16507
Nominal Diameter	DN50–DN600 mm	Larger sizes on requestISO 6708
Number of Outlets	2–12 pcs	Custom configurations available
Material Grade	20#–12Cr1MoV	Carbon steel for ≤350°C, alloy for higherGB/T 5310
Wall Thickness	5–30 mm	Scheduled per pressure ratingASME B36.10
End Connection	DN50–DN600 mm	Flanged, welded, or threadedASME B16.5
Surface Treatment	Sa2.5–Sa3	Blast cleaning before coatingISO 8501-1
Hydrostatic Test Pressure	1.5–2.4 MPa	1.5× design pressureGB/T 16507
Weight	50–2000 kg	Depends on size and material

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Header Pipe
Main pressure vessel that contains and distributes the steam.

Material: Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel
Inlet Nozzle Part
Connection point for steam supply lines entering the header.

Material: Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel
Outlet Nozzle Part
Connection point for steam distribution lines leaving the header.

Material: Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel
Isolation Valve
Valve installed on each outlet to control or shut off steam flow to downstream equipment.

Material: Cast Steel, Forged Steel
Pressure Gauge Connection Part
Tap for installing a pressure gauge to monitor header pressure.

Material: Steel
Safety Valve Connection Part
Tap for installing a pressure relief valve to protect the header from overpressure.

Material: Steel
Drain Connection Part
Connection at the bottom of the header for installing a drain valve to remove condensate.

Material: Steel
Support Structure Part
Structural supports (e.g., saddles, brackets) to hold the header in place and manage thermal expansion.

Material: Carbon Steel

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Steam Distribution System

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Steam Header

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Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used for steam headers?

Steam headers are typically made from carbon steel or stainless steel. Material grades range from 20# to 12Cr1MoV per GB/T 5310, depending on temperature and pressure requirements. For temperatures above 350°C, alloy steel is required.

What are the typical operating pressure and temperature ranges?

The operating pressure range is 1.0–1.6 MPa, and the design temperature range is 200–350°C per GB/T 16507. For higher temperatures, alloy steel must be used. Always verify the specific ratings with the manufacturer.

How many outlets can a steam header have?

The number of outlets can be customized from 2 to 12, depending on the application. Custom configurations are available. The nominal diameter ranges from DN50 to DN600 per ISO 6708.

What standards apply to steam header construction?

Relevant standards include GB/T 16507 for design temperature and hydrostatic test pressure, ISO 6708 for nominal diameter, ASME B36.10 for wall thickness, ASME B16.5 for end connections, and ISO 8501-1 for surface treatment. These are reference standards; verify compliance with the manufacturer.

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pressure:	Up to 1500 psi (103 bar) for standard designs, custom designs available for higher pressures
flow rate:	Dependent on header diameter and number of branches, typically 10,000-100,000 lb/hr (4,500-45,000 kg/hr)
temperature:	Up to 400°C (752°F) for standard carbon steel, higher with alloy materials
slurry concentration:	Not applicable - steam headers are designed for clean steam service only

Steam Header

Product Specifications

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