A Guide to Know About Mechanical Steam Trap Operations in Industrial Systems

Steam has been utilised as a resource to power the heating systems. It has been expertly utilised to generate and distribute heat efficiently for industrial operations. But using steam for different system applications cannot be unwarranted.

For optimal performance and safety in steam-based heating systems, it requires a key component and that is a steam strap. A steam trap function is to remove condensate and non-condensable gases from the steam lines.

These gases have the tendency to clog the system as a result diminishing their efficiency and even causing damage to equipment. These devices have been designed to automatically open and close in response to the pressure and temperature changes. This action allows steam traps to eliminate the gases while allowing flow of steam.

While there are different types of steam traps available like thermodynamic, thermostatic, etc. we will be focusing on mechanical steam traps. Let’s dive in to discover all about steam traps, particular the mechanical type steam traps.

 

What Is Condensate?

 

It is the water that forms as a byproduct of the combustion process happening within a steam-based heating system. As the fuel burns, it produces steam, which is then used to transfer heat to the various components of the system. 

The steam flows through the system and in doing so it loses some of its heat, causing it to cool and condense back into water. The water which is referred to as condensate is collected and returned to the system for them to be utilised in the combustion process.

This condensation process is important as it indicates that the system remains efficient. Aside from water, the condensate also contains dissolved minerals coming from the system. These can corrode the pipes and is why condensate needs to be removed for the system to be functional.

 

Why Regular Valves Won’t Work To Remove Condensate?

Since condensate is basically water, some propose to handle it with a regular valve. While in theory it may sound like a possibility, it is next to impossible to put into practice.

The primary reason being consistent fluctuation of condensate accumulation. Predications cannot be made about these existing fluctuations as there are several factors behind it. For example, the amount of condensate generated during equipment startup and normal operation varies.

Other than this, there are factors such as product load and external air temperature effect on the piping. These have an influence on the amount of condensate formed, which cannot be precisely determined. Therefore, regular valves fall short in responding to fluctuating condensate.

Prompt removal of condensate is important, otherwise it will pool on equipment or pipes and cause the heating system to fail. On the other hand, if the attempt to dispose of condensate is too excessive, it could lead to leakage or a situation in which steam comes out with the condensate, resulting in waste.

But the steam trap operation conveniently adjusts to these unpredictable fluctuations. Since it has the capability to automatically respond to not just changing temperatures but pressures as well.

 

What Is a Mechanical Steam Trap?

 

Mechanical steam trap is designed to get rid of condensate that forms when steam cools down. Unlike other types of steam traps, they have moving parts such as floats or buckets for performing the mechanism of opening and closing a valve. 

When there is steam, the valve remains in an open position to let it pass through. However, when there is accumulation of condensate, the valve closes to filter it out from the steam.

This intelligent mechanism makes sure that the valuable steam is preserved while getting rid of the condensate from the systems. It is precisely the reason why they are considered to be an essential device for use in industrial settings.

 

Different Types of Mechanical Steam Traps

 

The moving parts of mechanical steam traps can be different and with that two distinct types of these devices are available.

 

Float Steam Traps

In this type of steam trap, the difference in density between steam and condensate is sensed. Based on this principle, the float steam trap operates. When the condensate reaches the trap it will cause the float to rise. This will result in the valve to be lifted off its seat and in the process release condensate. 

The valve remains flooded and neither steam nor air will pass through it. The earlier versions of these trap types were vented using a manually operated cock at the top of the body. However, the modern traps utilise a thermostatic air vent. This allows passage of the initial air whilst also also handling condensate.

 

Inverted Bucket Type Steam Traps

This type of mechanical steam trap features an inverted bucket-like component within the trap. When steam enters the system, it causes the inverted bucket to rise. This leads to opening of the valve and allowing condensate to drain. 

Alternatively, when steam condenses, the bucket comes down causing the valve to close. This makes inverted bucket traps reliable for applications involving fluctuating condensate loads.

 

High-Quality Mechanical Steam Traps

 

At Dutco Tennant LLC, we distribute high-quality mechanical steam traps that meet the demanding industrial systems. The steam trap function fits into the diverse application areas including steam heated equipment, steam distribution piping, tracer lines and more.

We are committed to bring you the best quality products and with that in mind, we have stocked up on a premium range of steam traps solutions including mechanical steam traps. Connect with us for investing in our products.