What are the vertical pipes that transport steam to various floors in a heating system commonly called?

In a heating system, the vertical pipes that transport steam to various floors are known as risers. Risers are specifically designed to carry steam vertically from the boiler to higher levels in a building, allowing the steam to be distributed effectively to different heating zones or radiators located on those floors. Their primary function is to ensure that the steam reaches the required areas efficiently, facilitating proper heating throughout the structure.

Mains refer to the larger horizontal pipes that distribute steam after it has been transported up by the risers. Branches are offshoots from the mains that direct steam to specific heating units, while returns are the pipes that carry condensed steam or water back to the boiler for reheating. Understanding these terms and their specific roles is crucial in grasping how steam heating systems are designed and operated.