Recommended Velocities in Steam Systems

The steam velocity in a steam distribution system should be within certain limits to avoid excessive wear and tear

The steam velocities or speeds below are commonly recommended as acceptable for steam distribution systems:

Steam System	Velocity
Steam System	(m/s)	(ft/s)
Saturated Steam - high pressure	25 - 40	82 - 131
Saturated Steam - medium and low pressure	30-40	99 - 131
Saturated Steam at peak load	< 50	< 164
Steam and Water mix	< 25	< 82
Superheated Steam	35 - 100	100 - 300

Saturated steam - low pressure - is common for heating services and secondary process pipes.
Saturated steam - high pressure - is common in powerhouse, boiler and main process lines.
Superheated steam is common in power generation and turbine plants.