How do you know if you have a bad steam trap?
Condensate should usually be flowing through a trap, and the sound should have a lower pitch. So, if this sound changes and appears much closer to a higher pitched sound like that of steam flow, then the trap may have a large amount of flash steam or may be leaking live steam and should be inspected further.
What is the lifespan of a steam trap?
Steam traps last approximately six years. Leaks may not be visible, so thermal imaging can be used as a testing measure. Repairing or replacing failed steam traps will improve steam system efficiency and occupant comfort, while reducing the amount of natural gas required.
Can you oversize a steam trap?
These traps require large condensate and air handling ability to maintain efficient heat transfer. Under- and oversizing steam traps can have adverse effects on the overall system; undersized traps will cause frequent cycling and potentially reduce heat transfer as condensate may back up into the equipment.
What causes a steam trap to fail?
Dirt – by far the leading cause of failure resulting in either a leaking or plugged trap. Pressure surges (due to sudden steam valve openings, improper piping, or trap misapplications) resulting in water-hammer and subsequent damage to the internal steam trap components.
How often should steam traps be replaced?
once every three years
For example, the balanced pressure steam trap has an element designed for easy replacement. You’ll need to change these regularly (i.e., once every three years). By replacing them consistently, this will reduce the need for trap checking and will ensure a trouble-free system with minimal losses through defective traps.
Do you need a check valve after a steam trap?
Steam traps – Other than with steam traps discharging to atmosphere, check valves should always be inserted after a steam trap to prevent back flow of condensate flooding the steam space. The check valve will also prevent the steam trap from becoming damaged by any hydraulic shock in the condensate line.
What are the three types of steam traps?
Steam traps can be divided into three different types based on their operating principles:
- Mechanical Steam Traps.
- Thermodynamic Steam Traps.
- Thermostatic Steam Traps.
- Applications Suited to the Free Float® Type.
- Applications Suited to the Disc-Type.
- Applications Suited to the Thermostatic Type.
Does a steam trap reduce pressure?
Lower the Main Boiler Pressure to 80 psig From the example listed above, it can be observed that a reduction in boiler pressure will directly result in a reduction in flash steam as condensate passes through steam traps from high to low pressure. This savings applies only to the high-pressure system.
What type of steam trap is often not desirable?
Temperature Steam Traps In some exceptional circumstances, this is not desirable if condensate needs to be removed as soon as it is formed.
Can steam traps be repaired?
Repairing an existing steam trap costs less than purchasing a brand new trap. Steam trap repairs are easy to perform – possibly even simpler than replacing an entire trap. Repairs are possibly for virtually every brand of steam trap by every manufacturer.
Should be installed just ahead of a steam trap?
The steam trap should be installed in an accessible location. Always locate the steam trap below the lowest condensate discharge point of the equipment. Ahead of the steam trap, A rise in pipe elevation is not at all desirable. In most applications, check valves are installed after the steam traps.
How are steam traps used in Gestra systems?
GESTRA’s steam traps meet the most demanding system requirements to help you effectively remove condensate, keeping your system operating at peak performance. AK automatic drainage valves Automatic drainage steam traps automatically discharge air and condensate from steam systems on start-up and shutdown and provides protection from frost.
How does a ball float steam trap work?
Ball float steam traps with automated pump function guarantees condensate discharge with reduced steam pressure or high back pressure for regulated and special plate-type heat exchangers with major load fluctuations and drainage of vacuum systems.
What does a steam trap do for a steam system?
GESTRA’s steam traps meet the most demanding system requirements to help you effectively remove condensate, keeping your system operating at peak performance. Automatic Drainage Steam Traps automatically discharges air and condensate from steam systems on start-up and shut-down and provides protection from frost.
What do you need to know about Gestra training?
GESTRA training seminars are geared to the needs of technical staff working for engineering companies, project-, design- and plant engineers, foremen, interested specialists and personnel responsible for commissioning, servicing and maintenance. Our seminars on Steam and Condensate Systems