What are two methods recommended for managing expansion in steam lines?

Managing expansion in steam lines is crucial for maintaining system integrity and preventing damage due to thermal expansion. The correct choice involves implementing sliding sleeves and corrugated joints, which are two effective methods for accommodating the natural movement that occurs when steam lines heat up and cool down.

Sliding sleeves allow for axial movement while maintaining the necessary alignment of the piping system. This design helps manage thermal expansion by enabling the pipes to slide within the sleeves, which absorbs the expansion without exerting undue stress on the piping or connected equipment. Similarly, corrugated joints are designed to flex and absorb the thermal expansion, which allows for more freedom of movement in the pipes. This combination of sliding sleeves and corrugated joints provides a balanced approach to effectively accommodate changes in length due to temperature fluctuations without compromising system stability.

Other options, such as relying solely on expansion joints, can be limiting because while they manage some expansion, they may not address all scenarios or configurations of piping systems. Restricting movement of the pipes is not advisable, as it can lead to stress concentrations and potential failures. Utilizing only flexible pipe supports could also be inadequate if not designed for the specific requirements of the steam system, as they may not fully accommodate the complex thermal movements and could lead to increased wear or damage. Thus