What fitting is installed on the discharge of a safety valve in a steam system?

In a steam system, a drip pan ell is important because it helps in managing the condensation that can occur in steam lines. When steam travels through the piping, it can cool down and lead to condensation forming at various points in the system. The safety valve is critical for relieving excess pressure, and when it discharges steam, it can also release any condensate that has formed.

Placing a drip pan ell at the discharge of a safety valve allows for this condensate to collect and drain away effectively, preventing water hammer and protecting the integrity of the piping system. This is essential for maintaining safe and efficient operation of the steam system.

Using a reducer, expansion joint, or coupling at the base of the stack would not adequately address the need for managing condensate. A reducer changes the size of the pipe which may create turbulence, an expansion joint accommodates thermal expansion but does not address condensation, and a coupling simply connects two lengths of pipe without any features for drainage or management of steam discharge. Thus, choosing a drip pan ell is the most suitable option for ensuring that both steam and potential condensate are properly handled.