Condensate Evacuation using Thermodynamic Steam Traps
Thermodynamic steam traps are considered to be the best choice for evacuation of condensate from the steam distribution pipelines.
Thermodynamics steam traps have several advantages over mechanical and thermostatic traps. They are suitable for both high and low pressure systems. They are highly resistant to damage due to water hammer, which is important, considering that even in a well-designed network, water hammer can sometimes occur. In some areas prone to sub-zero temperatures, freezing can also cause problems, particularly for lines exposed to the environment. In such cases too thermodynamic steam traps are recommended since they are resistant to freezing. Thermodynamic steam traps also have a longer service life and are very easy to maintain.
Advancement in thermodynamic steam trapping solutions
State-of-the-art thermodynamic steam traps encompass the complete steam trap module in one single forged body. These solutions are easy to install, operate and maintain and offers several advantages over a conventional steam trapping station.
| Conventional Steam Trapping Station | Advanced Mainline Steam Trapping Solution |
|---|---|
| Approx. 750mm assembly length and weighing over 14 kgs | Compact and lightweight – 190mm assembly length and weighing about 6kgs |
| Has 16 components with 5 valves requiring on-site fabrication and welding (15 weld joints);~ 4 hours to install and commission | Only one component with 5 integral piston valves; installation time of ~30 minutes |
| Shutdown / safe isolation not possible, hampering online / in-line maintenance as traditional valves are prone to leakages and seizing up | Integral class VI bypass and isolation valves enable safe isolation for easy and safe online/ in-line maintenance |
| Trap needs to be replaced in case of damage to the seat | Replaceable seat and disc |
| Intermittent, noisy and scattered discharge of hot condensate causing erosion of surface onto which the condensate is discharged | Inbuilt diffuser enables reduction in noise level and gentle discharge of condensate for open to atmosphere applications thus ensuring safety |
| Cumbersome to maintain due to welded joints | Quick and easy to maintain |
| Potential steam leaks through inline leakages, glands and weld joints | Zero leakage |