In a steam piping system, steam traps are critical for two purposes : Removing steam condensate. Removing air and other non-condensable gases. Condensate removal Removing condensate form steam pipes is essential for proper heat transfer and avoiding water hammer. Removing air and non-condensable gases
What is the function of a steam trap?
What is the main function of a steam trap? The duty of a steam trap is to discharge condensate, air and other incondensable gases from a steam system while not permitting the escape of live steam. The need for steam traps, considerations surrounding their operation, basic modes of operation and relevant standards are all covered in this tutorial.
How does it work steam traps?
How does a pumping steam trap work? Steam, air, or inert gas enters the inlet valve and builds pressure inside the pumping trap. This pressure will close the inlet check valve and force liquid out through the discharge check valve as it opens. This downward motion closes the motive inlet valve and opens the vent valve.
What does a steam trap look like?
The orifice trap consists simply of a circular disc or a small pipe nipple with a small hole drilled at the lowest point of the equipment. The steam condensate will flow through the orifice and the steam gets locked because of its higher volume.
How does a steam trap work?
Thus the three main functions of any steam trap are :
- To prevent steam from escaping
- To allow the condensate to pass through
- To discharge air and other gases.
What is the purpose of a steam trap?
The duty of a steam trap is to discharge condensate, air and other incondensable gases from a steam system while not permitting the escape of live steam. The need for steam traps, considerations surrounding their operation, basic modes of operation and relevant standards are all covered in this tutorial.
Where are steam traps needed?
In Front of Manual Valves Closed for a Long Time Similarly, a steam trap is needed at the end of a pipe run (end of main) to help drain the system for safe and effective operation.
What happens if there is no steam trap?
When a steam trap fails open, it simply acts like an open valve and hence, a lot of steam would leak through it. As a result, the overall steam consumption of the plant will go up, reducing the efficiency of the operation.
Does a steam trap reduce pressure?
Steam traps are used anywhere there is a steam-powered system to discharge condensate, that is, the liquid that builds up in the pipelines, along with other non-condensable gases, to relieve the pressure in the lines and regulate the flow of steam within in it.
What are the three types of steam traps?
Three Categories of Steam Trap Based on Operation Principles. Mechanical Steam Traps. Thermodynamic Steam Traps. Thermostatic Steam Traps.
Where and why steam traps are installed?
The steam trap should be installed in an accessible location. A visual indication (can be a sight glass or test valve) of the steam trap performance shall be installed on all process applications. Always locate the steam trap below the lowest condensate discharge point of the equipment.
What is the pressure after steam trap?
After steam trap, each meter of elevation of the pipeline equals 0,11 barg back pressure.
What is the most important part of a trap?
The most important element of your trap beat might just be your kick drum and 808 pattern. Your kick and 808 are what give your trap that heavy, trunk-rattling bass. Putting your kick or 808 on beat 1 is essential, but beyond that, you're on your own.
Which steam trap is best?
The float-thermostatic trap is the best choice, and should be fitted close to the condensate drain point. If this is not possible, use the float-thermostatic trap with steam lock release, plus, if necessary, an external air vent in a bypass.
How do you size steam traps?
A large number of steam users improperly select trap size based on the size of existing piping. However, trap size should closely match the size of the piping on the outlet side of the equipment that supplies condensate to the trap. 15 mm [1/2 in.] 20 mm [3/4 in.]
How do you increase steam pressure?
You could heat the steam at constant volume, so the pressure will rise.
Where would you preferentially locate steam traps in Long steam lines?
A steam trap should be installed in front of valves closed for long periods of time to help eliminate the pooling of condensate which could otherwise be propelled at high speed down the pipeline when the manual valve is opened.
Which type of steam trap is often not desirable because condensate is required?
In most cases this is not desirable because condensate needs to be removed as soon as it is formed. Thermodynamic (TD) traps work on the difference in dynamic response to velocity changes in flow of compressible and incompressible fluids.
What is the ideal trap for steam mains?
The trap line should be at least 25 to 30 mm from the bottom of the pocket for steam mains up to 100 mm, and at least 50 mm for larger mains. This allows a space below for any dirt and scale to settle....Drain points.Mains diameter - DPocket diameter - d1Pocket depth - d2250 mm and aboved1 > D / 2Minimum d2 = D2 more rows
What is the most important part of a trap?
The most important element of your trap beat might just be your kick drum and 808 pattern. Your kick and 808 are what give your trap that heavy, trunk-rattling bass. Putting your kick or 808 on beat 1 is essential, but beyond that, you're on your own.
Why are steam traps important?
A Steam Trap is an integral part of a steam system. Steam traps play the important role in maintaining the productivity and efficiency of steam system.
How does a mechanical steam trap work?
Mechanical steam traps operates by sensing the difference in density between steam and condensate. These steam traps include
How is cold condensate discharged?
The cold condensate is discharged through the open valve and the open air vent. When the condensate reaches saturation temperature, the air vent closes and condensate is discharged only through the main valve orifice. The condensate forms a water seal inside the trap body, which prevents live steam loss at all times.
Why does high temperature condensate flash?
Flash steam occurs because the saturation point of water varies according to pressure.
Why does flash steam occur?
Flash steam occurs because the saturation point of water varies according to pressure. For example, the saturation point of water is 100 °C (212 °F) at atmospheric pressure, but is 184 °C (323 °F) at 1.0 MPaG (145 psig).
What temperature does flash steam drop to?
The condensate contains too much energy (enthalpy) to remain entirely liquid, and a portion of it evaporates, causing the temperature of the remaining condensate to drop to the saturation temperature (i.e., 100 °C or 212 °F if dischar ging to atmosphere). Flash steam forms steam cloud outside a steam trap.
How does steam work?
Steam provides a means of transporting controllable amounts of energy from a central, automated boiler house , where it will be efficiently and economically generated, to the point of use. Steam generated by a boiler contains heat energy which is used to heat the product. When steam loses it energy by heating the product, condensate is formed.
What is steam trap?
Steam trap is a self contained valve which automatically drains the condensate from a steam containing enclosure while remaining tight to live steam, or if allowing steam to flow at a controlled or adjusted rate. Most steam traps will also pass non-condensable gases while remaining tight to live steam.
How is a steam trap sized?
A steam trap must be sized based on condensate load. Once the condensate load is calculated, the trap should be sized using a safety factor. The sizing of condensate lines, downstream sub-headers and headers shall ensure there is no excessive back pressure on the trap.
What is the best type of trap for process?
The most common trap choices for process applications are float & thermostatic traps and thermostatic traps. Both are known for their excellent condensate and air handling capabilities. In contrast, thermodynamic traps and inverted bucket traps, which have poor air handling ability, would normally make a poor choice for process applications.
What is a process trap?
Process trap applications refer to removing condensate and air directly from a specific heat transfer process such as a heat exchanger that could be making hot water or a radiator heating a room. Traps used in these applications are referred to as process traps. Generally speaking, traps used for process applications require larger condensate handling capability and also need to be able to discharge large amounts of air. The most common trap choices for process applications are float & thermostatic traps and thermostatic traps. Both are known for their excellent condensate and air handling capabilities. In contrast, thermodynamic traps and inverted bucket traps, which have poor air handling ability, would normally make a poor choice for process applications.
What is a drip trap?
This application refers to removing the condensate that forms in steam lines when steam loses its heat energy due to radiation losses. Traps used in these applications are referred to as drip traps.
How does a thermostatic trap work?
A thermostatic trap opens its valve to discharge condensate when it detects this lower temperature. This category of trap includes balanced pressure and bi-metal traps as well as liquid expansion thermostatic traps.
What is a mechanical trap?
Mechanical traps are actuated by a float, which responds to changes in condensate level. Mechanical traps, use the density difference between steam and condensate to detect the presence of condensate. This category includes float-and-thermostatic traps and inverted bucket traps.
Why is the steam trap important?
This is the most important link in the condensate loop because it connects steam usage with condensate return.
What is the duty of a steam trap?
The duty of a steam trap is to discharge condensate, air and other incondensable gases from a steam system while not permitting the escape of live steam. The need for steam traps, considerations surrounding their operation, basic modes of operation and relevant standards are all covered in this tutorial.
How does a thermostatic trap work?
A thermostatic trap will pass condensate when this lower temperature is sensed. As steam reaches the trap, the temperature increases and the trap closes. Mechanical (operated by changes in fluid density) This range of steam traps operates by sensing the difference in density between steam and condensate.
What is the primary task of a steam trap?
The primary task of a steam trap is the proper removal of condensate and air and this requires a clear understanding of how steam traps operate.
What happens when steam traps fail?
When steam traps fail open, a certain amount of steam can be passed into the condensate system, although it is often a smaller quantity than might be expected. Fortunately, rapid means of detecting and rectifying such failures are now available to the steam user.
How is the temperature of saturated steam determined?
The temperature of saturated steam is determined by its pressure. In the steam space, steam gives up its enthalpy of evaporation (heat), producing condensate at steam temperature. As a result of any further heat loss, the temperature of the condensate will fall.
What is flash steam?
Flash steam. An effect caused by passing hot condensate from a high pressure system to a low pressure system is the naturally occurring phenomenon of flash steam. This can confuse the observer regarding the condition of the steam trap.
Why do steam lines have a steam trap?
Why Steam Trap in Steam Transfer Line ?; Tubes used in steam or Steam Up Transfer the Line must have a Steam Trap to remove water Condensate and air from Steam makes Steam is in Dry Condition in order to effectively heat exchanger highest .
Why does a steam heat exchanger have a steam trap?
Why does a Steam Heat Exchanger or any Steam Heater have a Steam Trap: 1st reason: On Outlet line, Steam-out of the Heat Exchanger may also heat or condensated at Steam outlet , therefore, a Steam Trap at Outlet line of Heat Exchanger for trap the Steam to condense into water before forwarding it to condensate main line ( Saving Steam ). 2nd reason: ...
Why do heat exchangers have to set steam traps?
The Steam on the Heat Exchanger may be Water Condensate contaminated, so they have to set Steam Trap with Steam Inlet line to prevent damage from Two-phase flow steam erosion occurred in Heat Exchanger. (Corrosion/Errosion Protection)
Why is steam used in steam traps?
Steam traps are used in such applications to ensure that steam is not wasted. ANSI defines steam traps the following way: steam trap - Self contained valve which automatically drains the condensate from a steam containing enclosure while remaining tight ...
How does steam work?
When the work is done (i.e. steam has given up its latent heat), steam condenses and becomes condensate. In other words, condensate does not have the ability to do the work that steam does. Heating efficiency will therefore suffer if condensate is not removed as rapidly as possible, whether in steam transport piping or in a heat exchanger.
How to regulate condensate load?
It is sometimes believed that the load of condensate can be regulated with a regular valve instead of a steam trap by simply adjusting the valve opening manually to match the amount of condensate generated.
What happens when condensate load lessens?
On the other hand, when the condensate load lessens, steam leakage will occur and steam will be wasted.
How does a steam trap work?
Here, the discharge of condensate happens at the same temperature as steam. In the trap body steam enters, expands suddenly when it reaches the backside of the disc.
What is the job of a steam trap?
But in all of these, A steam trap’s most important job is to quickly discharge condensate that has formed in the steam distribution line.
What is a mechanical steam trap?
Mechanical steam traps are built with a float that responds to change in the density of fluid and condensate level. The mechanical steam trap uses the density difference between steam and condensate to detect the presence of condensate.
How does a thermostatic steam trap work?
A thermostatic steam trap is driven by temperature change in the condensate. They operate on the principle that operates on the principle that “ Saturated process steam is hotter than either its condensate or steam mixed with condensable gases “.
How does a float type steam trap work?
A float type steam trap operate on the density difference of fluid in the trap body. In the steam trap shown in above image, trap is always flooded with condensate and neither steam nor non-condensable gas can pass through it.
Why does condensate travel slower than live steam?
The condensate is denser and travels at a much slower speed than live steam. Because of condensate slower speed, it prevents the passage of steam from the venturi. When condensate exists from the diverging section of the venturi nozzle, some part of it starts to flashing which increases a specific volume and creating a choking effect that creates a hindrance for steam to discharge from the steam trap.
What is the working temperature of a liquid expansion steam trap?
The normal working range of the Liquid expansion steam trap is between 60 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius. Because of its response towards temperature change, this trap is can be used “ Condensate drain trap “
What is the piping connection from the steam trap to the process?
The piping connection from Process to Steam Trap: The Piping from the steam trap to the process connection shall be equal to or larger than the process outlet connection. Hence, it is suggested not to reduce the piping/tubing diameter before the steam trap or reduce the connection size of the steam trap. For example, a steam unit heater ...
What is steam trap?
A steam trap serves two basic purposes: Separate the condensate from the steam as quickly as it is generated and. stop the stream discharge. Every steam systems normally employ many steam traps at strategic locations to avoid the condensate to mix with the steam and create a two-phase flow.
What is a universal mount for a steam trap?
Universal Mounts: Universal mounts shall be used for connecting the steam trap devices with a connection size of 1 in. or smaller to the tubing or piping. With the universal mount, the steam trap is connected to the application with two bolts. This reduces the time required for the installation of the steam trap.
What is the diameter of a steam trap pipe?
Piping Connection Downstream of Steam Trap: The pipe/tube diameter downstream of the discharge connection of the steam trap should be expanded. For example, 1-in. (connection) steam-trap discharge tubing/piping should be increased to 1.25 in. or 1.5 in.
How to install a steam trap?
Few other important Steam trap Installation Best Practices are: 1 The steam trap should be installed in an accessible location. 2 A visual indication (can be a sight glass or test valve) of the steam trap performance shall be installed on all process applications. 3 Always locate the steam trap below the lowest condensate discharge point of the equipment. 4 Ahead of the steam trap, A rise in pipe elevation is not at all desirable. 5 In most applications, check valves are installed after the steam traps. 6 Installation standards for all applications shall be maintained for future reference. 7 ASME B 31.1 code is normally followed.
What is the most important rule to remember for steam trap installation?
Ensure Gravity Flow : The most important rule to remember for steam-trap installation is one of Mother Nature’s Laws — Gravity (Fig. 1). Installation should ensure the condensate flow from the process to the steam trap by the gravity forces. Pressure and velocity can not be relied on to remove the condensate from the process.
What is quantifiable steam?
A quantifiable amount of steam always leaks through the steam traps. Hence, The selected steam traps must ensure that steam traps with the least amount of steam loss are specified. Such Steam Traps will prevent unnecessary energy loss.
Steam Traps
- Steam provides a means of transporting controllable amounts of energy from a central, automated boiler house, where it will be efficiently and economically generated, to the point of use. Steam generated by a boiler contains heat energy which is used to heat the product. When steam loses it energy by heating the product, condensate is formed. Also, a part of energy contained by steam …
Why Not Use A Manual Valve ?
- It is sometimes believed that the condensate can be regulated with a regular valve instead of a steam trap by simply adjusting the valve opening manually to match the amount of condensate generated. Theoretically, this is possible. However, the range of conditions necessary to achieve this are so limited that in practice it is not a realistic solution. The largest problem with manual m…
Features Required in Steam Traps
- Condensate Removal
The steam trap has to allow condensate to pass whilst trapping the steam in the process. If good Heat Transfer is critical to the process, then condensate must be discharged immediately and at steam temperature. Leakage of steam at this point is inefficient and uneconomical. - Air Venting
At ‘start-up’, i.e. the beginning of the process plant, the piping system is filled with air, which unless displaced, will reduce Heat Transfer and increase the warm-up time. On start-up, steam enters the piping system only as fast as the air is vented. It is preferable to purge air as quickly a…
Types of Steam Traps
- The essential property of a steam trap is to be able to distinguish between steam, condensate and air. Different types of steam traps employ different working principles and mechanisms to distinguish between steam, condensate and air. When classified according to these operating principles, each design has advantages and limitations which must be considered while selectin…