Primary Advantages Of Efficient Steam Trap

Owners/operators will receive an in-depth overview of the performance of their steam systems after conducting an inspection of the steam trap. A steam trap survey well done will include plans to increase the efficiency of the system, by identifying what steam traps are failing or are not functioning within their operating limits. Another advantage of a well executed steam trap survey is that, once done, a database will be set up to monitor the longevity of the plant's steam traps and provide insight as to when each steam trap must be replaced. Significant savings in water and energy costs could be realized by replacing the failed steam traps. To discover extra information about steam trap, you must visit our website.

The other major benefit of keeping the proper functioning of a steam plant originates in the mechanical room itself. If steam traps do not be open, or leak, steam can travel through the condensate pipe that will lead to steam getting to the impeller of the condensate pumps. Cavitation could occur if one of these fluids reaches the impeller. Cavitation can cause catastrophic damages to the pump, and usually requires a major overhaul. A failed steam trap will increase the temperature of the room. In most cases, mechanical equipment will function optimally when the air temperature is lower. The lower temperature conditions that an operational steam plant generates in turn improves the performance of the system which in turn reduces operating expenses.

Steam Trap Testing 101

Since the turn of the century steam trap surveys were carried out by building owners. Therefore it's not a surprise that the methods employed by our forefathers are no longer relevant. The primary method employed to assess the effectiveness of an installed steam trap relied upon the temperature differential between the inlet and outlet sides of a steam trap. This method is still used today. But, there are better techniques that are available and they are continually evolving. New methods employ infrared and ultrasound technology. To hear the sounds produced inside the trap with ultrasound technology, technicians will utilize headphones or a speaker. Steam traps produce different sounds during normal operation versus a failure condition. For instance, a functioning float and thermostatic trap will make a clicking sound each time the float lifts off of the port for discharge of condensate. This same type of steam trap will produce an erupting sound when it fails in an open position or there is no sound when it fails to close. If the trap is unable to shut, a significant temperature differential can be a sign. Infrared cameras are the most effective method to determine the temperature difference between steam traps. Infrared cameras generate a heat map of each trap which can then be quickly analysed to pinpoint the failure of steam traps.

When Should Steam Trap Surveys be Instigated?

With the start of the summer heating season just close to the mark it is now the perfect moment to schedule steam trap surveys conducted on your facility. The best way to increase comfort and lower energy costs is to locate and replace any faulty steam traps. Steam trap inspections are cost-effective and can result in huge savings over the long run, making this process simple to do.