The installation interval of thermal pipeline compensator is mainly determined according to the nature of the medium in the pipeline, the operating temperature and pressure of the pipeline, as well as the material and design conditions of the pipeline. The following are general guidelines based on different media and conditions:
Steam pipe：
It is generally recommended to set up a compensator every 50 meters.
High temperature water pipeline：
Set up a compensator approximately every 140 meters.
However, these values are not fixed, and the following factors need to be comprehensively considered in practical application:
Pipe Material: Pipes of different materials respond differently to temperature changes, so the installation intervals of the compensator will vary.
Temperature difference between the temperature at which the pipeline operates and the temperature at which it is installed: Larger temperature differences increase the amount of expansion of the pipe and may require a denser distribution of compensators.
Length and coefficient of expansion of pipe: Longer pipes or materials with higher coefficients of expansion may require more frequent setup of the compensator.
Support mode and arrangement position of pipe: The supporting conditions of the pipe also affect its thermal expansion behavior, thus affecting the necessity of the compensator.
Operating pressure of pipeline: Changes in pressure can also affect the thermal expansion characteristics of the pipe.
Additionally, the compensator may be set up further for a 24-hour continuous operating pipe system, while for a non-continuous operating pipe, the compensator may be set up more densely given the pipe expansion and contraction caused by frequent temperature changes.
When designing the thermal pipeline system, the engineer will use the thermal expansion calculation formula of the pipeline, combined with the actual working conditions and safety margin, to accurately calculate the specific position of each compensator and the required compensation amount. More specific guidance and requirements are provided in some detailed design guidelines and specifications, such as ASME B31.1 "Pipes for Power and Steam Power Stations" or GB/T 12777 "General Technical Specifications for Expansion Joints of Metal Bellows".