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Boiler Stainless Steel Exhaust Flue Stack: This is a photo of a boiler stainless steel exhaust stack. It is used for venting corrosive boiler combustion gases. As the flue gases leave the boiler they cool and depending on the dew point of the gas, the gas will experience a change of state. It will change from a gas to a liquid. This liquid is highly corrosive and only special flues like stainless steel vent can be used when this occurs. Stainless steel prevents premature failure of the boiler vent.
There are many considerations to consider with a new installation of a heating system in comparison to the type of vent to be utilized. The venting system used to vent the gases from the boiler or furnace safely outdoors. It is imperative that safety guidelines be followed when installing any type of venting system for furnaces or boilers using fossil fuels. For detailed information concerning code requirements for installation of venting systems see the IFGC or International Fuel Gas Code. Chapter 5 and Appendix C of the IFGC offer detailed requirements for the installation of venting systems.
Never sacrifice safely, consult a professional when in doubt. There are many rules to follow. A professional will know these rules and apply them as they install the system. They will also, have the system inspected by the code official in your area to double-check to ensure safety guidelines were followed
Boiler Stainless Steel Exhaust Flue Stack
This change of state of flue gases in the vent pipe depends on many different variables like length of run, the efficiency of the boiler or furnace, type of material used in the flue, the temperature of the flue, and the ambient temperature outside and where the flue pipe is running. Always consult with the manufacturer, Fuel Gas Code, or HVAC supplier for additional information on the type of flue needed. Additionally, whether a liner is needed for a masonry chimney when a masonry chimney will be utilized to exhaust flue gases from a boiler or furnace.
Boiler Stainless Steel Exhaust Flue Stack | Installation Factors and Considerations
As mentioned above, the material used for the flue is an important consideration based on several variables. Since the combustion gases are corrosive, the material must be able to withstand a corrosive environment. Otherwise, the flue vent will eventually fail and result in a dangerous situation. Roof penetrations must be taken into account. Fireproofing considerations need to be made to prevent fires or other failures of the penetration. In that regard, if the flue vent runs near any type of combustible materials such as wood, consideration for that must be taken into account.
The flue termination is also another consideration as the gases should safely be channeled away from the structure and any openings. This prevents the gases from being sucked into the structure. When multiple appliances are connected to a common flue vent capacity issues must be factored in. Furthermore, the common flue must be able to handle the capacity. Capacity in the case of all the appliances running at the same time.
Boiler Stainless Steel Exhaust Flue Stack | Conclusion
As you can, the installation of a venting system is not cut and dry. There are many safety factors and considerations to be made when installing a venting system. There are also code requirements that must be followed when installing a venting system. All that is aside from the technical knowledge needed to properly install the system. It can make a difference in both the safety and longevity of the venting system by following these rules and requirements. If stainless steel is not utilized and you are using a chimney then it will likely need a liner to prevent the corrosive effects of the combustion gases.
Boiler Stainless Steel Exhaust Flue Stack
