How to test a steam trap

Learn more in this overview of steam trap testing methods. Historically, diagnost​ic methods have included listening devices, optical sight glasses, temperature monitoring, and ultrasonic techniques. All of these can give an indication of flow, but become inaccurate as system conditions change.

Noise level will vary with disturbance from adjacent traps , and condensate load. A short introduction to testing steam traps with ultrasound using the SDT2ultrasound detector.

Combining ultrasound and temperature measurements is the key for steam trap inspection.

The SDT2provides both, allowing inspectors to.

Do not use thermostatic or float and thermostatic traps, which employ balanced pressure bellows, where superheated steam will contact the element. Inverted bucket traps can be used successfully on superheated steam. Follow these steps to use ultrasound testing for steam traps with inverted bucket operation, float and thermostatic operation, thermodynamic operation, and thermostatic operation. When steam traps leak or fail, it can be extremely costly in terms of product quality, safety and energy loss. There are differences in the way particular steam traps work (for example, inverted bucket trap versus float and thermostatic trap).

An Ultraprobe makes it easy to sense these . CAUTION: Valves in steam lines should be opened or closed by authorized personnel only, following the correct procedure for specific system conditions. Always isolate steam trap from pressurized supply and return lines before opening for inspection or repair. Today on the Boiling Point, we have our Hey Jude segment. Jude Wolf will be talking about testing steam traps and how to know if they have been properly tested.

Using the precision infrared tools at our disposal, a WARE Steam Study would be able to see in detail what is going on in your steam system. Avoid Heat Exchanger Stalling with Armstrong International - Duration: 18:25. As such, it is essential that plant managers understand how they function, why they exist and which methods are best suited for testing the traps.

In his webinar, Steam Trap Testing , Tristian McCallion of Swagelok walked . Frequently Asked Questions about Steam Trap Center of Southeastern Michigan, including topics such as: what are steam traps , which kind of the best kind of steam trap , questions about pressure gauging and more! Like any other industrial valve steam traps are subject to wear and their correct functioning can be impaired by precipitated solids and dirt deposits. The job of the steam trap is to isolate and remove these impurities from the live steam. Steam traps that function properly help maintain purity and efficiency throughout the system.

The best way to test steam trap function is to listen to them with an ultrasound solution. Since the system is closed it is not possible to know if the steam trap is operating . One of the best opportunities for detecting excess energy loss is steam trap testing. Although defective steam traps can waste thousands of dollars annually, their maintenance is often overlooked. Presently, estimates for steam trap failures within industrial facilitites is . Considering that medium sized facilties can have . The regular inspection of valves and steam traps is essential for preventive maintenance.

The early detection of steam trap leaks or fails and signs of wear leads to increased operational reliability, and considerable cost savings. The ultrasonic testing device SONAPHONE is used for steam trap and valve inspections in .