Steam Tracing Pipe Lines

Determines the appropriate number of 1/2 inch (15 mm) steam tracers needed for pipe lines based on pipe size and temperature maintenance requirements.

Calculator

Inputs

Product Line Size (inch)

Temperature Maintenance Range

Results

Number of 1/2" (15 mm) Steam Tracers-- tracers

Pipe Size (inch)	Frost Protection (<75°F / 25°C)	Keep Fluid (<150°F / 65°C)	Keep Fluid (<300°F / 150°C)
1	1	1	1
1.5	1	1	2
2	1	1	2
3	1	1	3
4	1	2	3
6	2	2	3
8	2	2	3
12	2	3	6
16	2	3	8
20	2	3	10

Key Information

Standard Tracer Size: 1/2 inch (15 mm) diameter pipes
Installation: Steam tracers must be stripped to the lower part of process pipes as heat moves upward
Applicable Conditions: Normal insulated pipes in normal surrounding conditions
Conversion: 1 inch = 25.4 mm

Example

For a 4 inch transport system carrying vegetable oil with solidification temperature at 40°C (104°F), two 1/2 inch steam tracing pipes are appropriate.