Introduction to Steam

  1. Function and Operation of Steam Traps

     

    1. Operating Characteristics of Steam Traps

 

Operating characteristics of steam traps can be broadly divided into two types: intermittent operations and continuous operations.

 

 

  1. Intermittent operations

     

    This type of operation allows the flow of incoming condensate to be drained at a rapid rate, and relates to the bucket trap and thermodynamic disc trap. In general, the bucket trap is generally more frequent than the thermodynamic disc trap. In addition, the temperature of the condensate in the bucket trap at time of valve opening is saturated temperature, whereas it is much lower in the case of the thermodynamic disc trap.

     

    ● Bucket trap

     

    間欠作動説明01.png

     

    ● Thermodynamic Disc Trap



     

    intermitent_operation2

     

    Figure 2.14 Intermittent operations

  2. Continuous operations

 

 

 

This is a type in which incoming condensate is discharged continuously by adjusting the degree of valve opening. Ball float steam traps and thermostatic traps (temperature control steam traps and diaphragm traps) are categorized using this type. The ball float steam trap discharges condensate at almost the same temperature as saturated temperature, and thermostatic traps discharges condensate at a lower temperature than saturated temperature or at a pre-set temperature.

 

 

 

● Ball float steam trap

 

 

 

intermittent_operation_03.png

 

 

 

● Temperature Control steam traps and diaphragm traps

 

 

intermittent_operation_04.png

 

 

Figure 2.15 Continuous operation characteristics

 

Steam Trap Selection
by Industry

Steam traps have various models and features.
Suitable steam traps can be selected when it is determined whether each feature suits the condition of use.