What is a common practice for preventing thermal shock in piping systems?

Gradually heating or cooling the system is a common practice for preventing thermal shock in piping systems. Thermal shock occurs when there is a rapid change in temperature within the piping, which can lead to stresses and potential damage, such as cracks or failures, especially in materials that are not designed to withstand sudden temperature fluctuations.

By gradually adjusting the temperature, the piping materials have time to expand or contract slowly, which reduces the stress imposed on them. This practice is particularly important in systems that handle fluids at varying temperatures or in processes where rapid thermal changes are likely to occur.

While applying thermal insulation can be beneficial in maintaining temperature and reducing heat loss or gain, it does not directly address the issue of thermal shock. Similarly, continuous flow can help in maintaining a consistent temperature within the system, but it does not specifically prevent the stresses that arise from sudden temperature changes. Using heavier gauge pipes may provide additional strength, but it does not mitigate the effects of rapid temperature changes.