European district heating systems based on hot water have been installed for well over 50 years throughout Scandinavia, Russia and Central Europe. Hot water is typically distributed at temperatures below 250° F. In support of these systems, European manufacturers have developed pre-insulated piping systems using HDPE casings, polyurethane insulation and steel carrier pipes. This presentation explores the current thinking on European vs. U. S. systems and suggests ways to compare the relative benefits of both approaches.
David Wade, RDA Engineering Services