Steam Traps and Steam Trapping

How steam traps work and why steam traps are necessary. All is explained in this block, along with the different
types, where they are used, and how they are selected. Air venting theory and applications are touched upon, along
with steam trap maintenance.

1. Introduction - Why Steam Traps?

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.

2. Thermostatic Steam Traps

Thermostatic traps operate in response to the surrounding steam temperature. The operation and benefits of
3 different types are considered here - liquid expansion traps, bimetallic and balanced pressure thermostatic
traps. Each operates in a different way and is suited to specific types of application.

3. Mechanical Steam Traps

Mechanical steam traps rely on the difference in density between steam and condensate in order to operate.
They can continuously pass large volumes of condensate and are suitable for a wide range of process
applications. Types include ball float and inverted bucket steam traps. This tutorial considers the operation
and benefits of both types.

4. Thermodynamic Steam Traps

Thermodynamic steam traps have a unique operating principle which relies on the dynamics of water and
flash steam. They are simple, robust and reliable and can operate up to very high temperatures and
pressures. Their construction, use and benefits are detailed here.

5. Considerations for Selecting Steam Traps

Application type, system design and maintenance needs will influence the performance and selection of
steam traps. Factors such as waterhammer, dirt, steam locking, group trapping, vacuum conditions and
temperature control of processes are discussed in this tutorial.

6. Selecting Steam Traps - Canteen Equipment; Oil Transfer/Storage;

Hospital Equipment
Selection tables and advice on trap selection for a range of different processes are included in this tutorial,
including steaming ovens, bulk storage tanks and autoclaves.

7. Selecting Steam Traps - Industrial Dryers

Selection tables and advice on trap selection for a range of different processes are included in this tutorial,
including multi-bank pipe dryers and rotating cylinders.

8. Selecting Steam Traps - Laundries, Presses

Selection tables and advice on trap selection for a range of different processes are included in this tutorial,
including calendars, garment presses, dry cleaning machines and tyre presses.

9. Selecting Steam Traps - Process Equipment

Selection tables and advice on trap selection for a range of different processes are included in this tutorial,
including boiling pans, retorts, digesters, coppers, reboilers, evaporators and vulcanisers.

10.

Selecting Steam Traps - Space Heating Equipment

Selection tables and advice on trap selection for a range of different processes are included in this tutorial,
including heat exchangers, radiant panels, unit heaters, air heater batteries and overhead pipe coils.

11.
Selecting Steam Traps - Steam Mains; Tanks and Vats; Pressure
Reducing Valves
Selection tables and advice on trap selection for different types of steam mains, headers and off-takes are
included in this tutorial, together with process vats and pressure reducing valve stations.

12.

Air Venting Theory

The presence of air has a devastating effect on steam systems and processes. The basic theory of air
venting is explained in this tutorial, plus advice on air vent location.

13.

Air Venting Applications

Some of the many different applications for air vents are described in this tutorial, including steam mains,
bypasses, jacketed vessels and rotating cylinders. Other issues such as venting large volumes of air, group
air venting and the substitution of thermostatic steam traps are also considered.

14.

Testing and Maintenance of Steam Traps

Indiscriminate maintenance of steam traps wastes money. This tutorial considers a planned approach to
steam trap testing and maintenance, with recommended methods and equipment.

15.

Energy Losses in Steam Traps

A large amount of inaccurate and misleading information has been written on this subject. This tutorial gives
clear, accurate information regarding the energy consumption of different trap types.