reasonable velocities for oxygen, argon & nitrogen...

[mulderbaba]

Hi all,

I am looking for reasonable velocities for oxygen, argon & nitrogen
gas in pipes at various pressures (compressed) and also at ambient
temperature. Anybody have any data?

Thanks.

 

[pmureiko]

Reasonable velocities depend on your service requirements.
Note special precautions are needed with oxygen in carbon steel pipes. If the velocity is too high, the rust coating will come loose and the oxygen will react with the fresh metal. The result is a damaged pipe and a fire. There is a maximum velocity for oxygen and CS pipe which is relatively simple to meet. The problem is throttling valves which have high velocities and need to be of alloy construction. My reference is at work so that is the best I can give for now. Consult with your oxygen supplier if you need an answer right away.

 

[SooCS]

If pressure lost is not a problem, a reasobable velocity is the for gas flow is when the velocity does not generate too much noice, normally not more then 85 dBA for heavy industries uses. Noise is generally a problem if the gas flow at more than 60 ft/s.

Search for the earlier thread for noise prediction.