Selecting and installing steam traps correctly for proper condensate evacuation
Typically for saturated steam distribution lines, steam traps should be installed with correctly sized drain pockets at the following locations
At every 30 meters
Installing steam traps every 30 meters ensure that condensate is removed at regular intervals, preventing its accumulation and the associated problems. Accumulation of condensate in the pipeline reduces the overall effective cross-sectional area of the pipeline, causing steam velocity to increase beyond recommended limits, resulting in water hammer.
Video: Phenomenon of water hammer
At every change in elevation
Condensate typically accumulates at low lying points within the distribution network. Absence of a drain pocket and steam trap at such locations will result in water hammer which damages the pipeline and leads to steam leaks.
Video: Install a steam trap when there is a change in pipeline elevation
At dead ends
Due to the slope in the steam line, condensate will accumulate at dead ends within the steam pipeline network. If drain pockets and steam traps are not present at these dead ends it will lead to frequent failures of the flange gaskets due to water hammer as well as result in supply of wet steam to the process.
Video: Install a steam trap at dead ends
Quick Tip
It is always advisable to use a thermodynamic steam trap to evacuate condensate from steam pipelines.
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.
Read more about the benefits of using an Advanced Mainline Steam Trapping Solution