Can you oversize a steam trap?

Under- and oversizing steam traps can have adverse effects on the overall system; undersized traps will cause frequent cycling and potentially reduce heat transfer as condensate may back up into the equipment.

What causes a steam trap to fail?

Dirt – by far the leading cause of failure resulting in either a leaking or plugged trap. Pressure surges (due to sudden steam valve openings, improper piping, or trap misapplications) resulting in water-hammer and subsequent damage to the internal steam trap components.

Where do you install a steam trap?

Always install the steam trap in a location that is accessible by plant personnel. Install a visual indication of the steam trap performance on all process applications. The visual indication can be a sight glass or test valve. Locate the steam trap below the lowest condensate discharge point of the equipment.

How do I know if my steam trap is failing?

Steam trap failure is caused by improper removal of the condensate. When the steam trap shows signs it can no longer remove condensate from the steam system efficiently, it’s a sign the traps are failing.

How do you know if a steam trap is bad?

Condensate should usually be flowing through a trap, and the sound should have a lower pitch. So, if this sound changes and appears much closer to a higher pitched sound like that of steam flow, then the trap may have a large amount of flash steam or may be leaking live steam and should be inspected further.

How often should a steam trap cycle?

In a typical year, a radiator trap will cycle about 175,000 times. That’s why, after about 10 years, they’re ready to retire. If the trap fails closed, there will be no heat and someone will notice.

How do I know if my steam trap is bad?

What temp should a steam trap be?

212°F
If steam is blowing into a condensate line that has zero pressure, the steam temperature of the blowing or leaking steam trap must be 212°F, or the temperature of steam at zero pressure.

Should be installed just ahead of a steam trap?

The steam trap should be installed in an accessible location. Always locate the steam trap below the lowest condensate discharge point of the equipment. Ahead of the steam trap, A rise in pipe elevation is not at all desirable. In most applications, check valves are installed after the steam traps.

What is the pressure on a Armstrong 880 bucket trap?

Armstrong Model 880 – 1/2″ 20 psi Horizontal Cast Iron Bucket Trap. Armstrong inverted bucket steam trap, model 880, with a 1/2″ pipe connection in an in-line horizontal configuration. The 880 is cast iron and has a 20 psi maximum operating pressure.

What is the operating pressure of an 880 steam trap?

The 880 is cast iron and has a 20 psi maximum operating pressure. Armstrong inverted bucket steam trap, model 880, with a 1/2″ pipe connection in an in-line horizontal configuration. The 880 is cast iron and has a 125 psi maximum operating pressure.

What is the maximum operating pressure of an inverted bucket steam trap?

Armstrong inverted bucket steam trap, model 880T, with a 3/4″ pipe connection in an in-line horizontal configuration. The 880T is cast iron and has a 20 psi maximum operating pressure. Armstrong inverted bucket steam trap, model 881, with a 1/2″ pipe connection in an in-line horizontal configuration.

What is a horizontal line cast iron steam trap?

Armstrong 880 Series cast iron horizontal line, also known as “in-line”, inverted bucket steam traps feature a built-in integral strainer at the base of the trap. This integral strainer will intercept most harmful particles to keep the trap running smoothly.