Float & Thermostatic Steam Traps Introduction
FLOAT & THERMOSTATIC TRAPS F&T steam traps are the most common trap type used for process applications. They use a float-operated valve mechanism to discharge condensate as it is formed, and an air vent for discharging air at start-up; both very important requirements for process applications. The WFT and FTT-Series with Iron bodies , are suitable for most general purpose process applications up to 250 PSIG . The 3/4”WFT and FTT are often used for drip applications.
The FTE-Series has extremely high capacity .
The FT600 Series available with Cast Steel or Stainless Steel bodies ; often required in Chemical and Petrochemical refineries and other industries. Float & Thermostatic Steam Traps (F&Ts) are very versatile due to their ability to drain condensate from a wide variety of applications. They can be installed in steam distribution piping to remove condensate and protect equipment leading up to any steam-using equipment such as heat exchangers, air coils, unit heaters, radiators, etc. When installed BEFORE steam-using equipment, this is referred to as a DRIP application. Typically a small (½” – 1”) float and thermostatic steam trap can be installed in an appropriate drip leg to drain condensate to improve steam quality and reduce waterhammer before it enters the equipment. The thermostatic element will improve start-up times by discharging air that will initially be in cold steam piping. Steam pressure and condensate loads will be relatively constant in Drip applications meaning the trap will not have to cycle much. Additional consideration may be given to higher condensate loads at system start-up until the steam system reaches working pressure and temperature When an F&T trap is installed directly AFTER any steam-using equipment such as at the condensate outlet of a steam-to-water heat exchanger, this is referred to as a PROCESS application. Effectively, any equipment that is using steam for heating water or other liquid, air, or an industrial material is referred to as a process. Unlike the Drip application described above, pressure and condensate load in Process applications is typically not constant and may vary significantly. The Float & Thermostatic steam trap’s ability to quickly adjust and modulate to varying conditions make it the primary choice for Process applications. The float-operated valve design allows the F&T to open immediately when condensate load or pressure increases and will close quickly when condensate load is reduced. The thermostatic element improves energy efficiency by discharging air immediately at start-up to significantly reduce heat-up times. Steam Lock Release – All efforts should be made to drain condensate from piping and equipment by gravity whereby the steam trap is located below the equipment being drained. This is referred to as Gravity Drainage. However, certain applications require the steam trap to be installed above the point where condensate collects. This type of application is referred to as Syphon Drainage and requires the steam trap to be fitted with Steam Lock Release (SLR) to consistently drain condensate for optimum heating. One such example of an application requiring Syphon Drainage and a steam trap fitted with SLR is a Rotating Steam Dryer
Rotating Steam Dryer Commonly found in the Paper Making industry, a rotating piece of equipment offers a unique challenge of removing the condensate. Steam inside a rotating drum cylinder is used to heat product such as sheets of paper over the outside surface of the drum. Since the drum is rotating, the trap must be positioned above the condensate collection point. The steam pressure inside the drum pushes the condensate up through the pipe to the steam trap. If steam enters the tubing, it will “Steam Lock” the trap by causing it to close which in turn causes the condensate to build up inside the rotating drum. Since the pipe line is surrounded by steam, it may take an extended length of time for the steam in the pipe to dissipate. By using the Steam Lock Release feature, a small amount of steam is continually discharged thru the seat, allowing the condensate to continually reach the steam trap. This steam lock release feature is available on ALL F&T and Thermostatic traps and should be considered on this type of application.
Rotary Coupling
Rotary Coupling
FTE Series with Steam Lock Release (SLR)
Rotating Drum
Steam
Trap Positioned Above Condensate Collection Point requires SLR
Condensate Collection Point
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