Pipe insulation on the drainage piping receiving Condensate 1

[PS-M]

thread403-470451

Is the horizontal drain piping from the Hub Drain receiving the condensate drainage require insulation? Project location is in the Caribbean.

 

[dbill74]

It is going to depend on the material of the condensate pipe. If you are using copper tube or another metal, having insulation would probably be a good idea. If you are using PVC, insulation is not needed as much.

Are there any codes you need to abide by that mandate insulation?

 

[HVAC-Novice]

Did you read the responses in the thread you linked to? if that doesn't answer your question, ask a specific question.

And look at YOUR local codes.

 

[PS-M]

There are no specific codes on that island. The engineer is following the IBC. I was more concerned since it would be a hot and humid environment. Piping material is another question. In high corrosive environment, I want to use PVC pipe; but the engineer is from the mainland and keeps suggesting the metallic piping for all systems including plumbing. He sites noise concerns vs I am more concerned about corrosion.

 

[HVAC-Novice]

Trial by combat will be the only way to resolve this!

Knowing only what was provided, yes some high-perm insulation likely is needed. Are you working for the owner or what is your relation to the designer? Did the designer provide a plan to avoid condensation? Based on the expected condensate temperature and local air conditions, it should be easy to proof condensation can occur. what metallic piping? Copper, steel, stainless steel, galvanized? is there something underneath the pipes that can suffer from dripping water?

 

[dbill74]

Noise is not an issue for pipe containing condensate water, there is not enough water to generate a lot of noise. (That argument makes sense for an internal roof drain where you get lots of water in a large pipe and the mass of cast-iron helps to dampen the sound.)

The only reason you want insulation on a condensate line or drainpipe receiving condensate is to prevent condensation on the exterior of the pipe.
Where is this pipe located?
What is the dew point of the air the piping is in?

Insulation on the condensate line from the coil itself makes sense, even when using PVC. By the time the condensate has gotten through the air gap at the hub drain it will have gained enough energy/temperature to keep off the condensate curve.

At the end of the day, it is your design, your decision. If you want to be conservative with your design, add the insulation regardless of the material.
Keep in mind though, it is adding a cost to the project.

 

[PS-M]

I agree - condensate pipe must be insulated. Pipe is located above the ceiling for levels 2,3 and 4.