Steam Management - Overview of Steam Traps

A. Bhatia, B.E.

Course Outline

Energy costs plus the desire to optimize equipment performances are encouraging the system designers and users to seek new methods for realizing the maximum heating value from every fuel dollar. Steam trap is that crucial component of the steam system that if not maintained or applied properly can result in significant energy wastage.

This 3-hour online course provides an overview of this essential component and discusses the operation, selection, installation and maintenance criteria of various steam traps.

This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the conclusion of this course, the student will be aware of:

• Functions of steam trap
• Types of steam trap
• Advantages and disadvantages of various types
• Selection criteria for the steam traps
• System design considerations and the installation aspects
• Performance testing of steam traps
• Maintenance aspects
• Energy saving opportunities
• Applicable codes and standards
  

Intended Audience

This course is aimed at students, professional engineers, system designers, energy auditors, O & M personnel, environment and loss prevention engineers.

Course Introduction

By definition, a steam trap 'purges' condensate, as well as air and other incondensable gases, out of the system, allowing steam to reach its destination in as dry condition as possible to perform its task efficiently and economically. It is important that a steam trap must trap or hold back steam and not allow it to pass along with condensate or air.

Actual energy efficiency can be achieved only when steam traps meet the requirements for the purpose it is installed. It will become clear that one type of steam trap can not possibly be the correct choice for all applications. The following criterion is discussed in this course:

1. Types and selection
2. System design and Installation
3. Maintenance and energy conservation opportunities

Course Content

The course content is in a PDF file Steam Management - Overview of Steam Traps. You need to open or download this document to study this course.

Course Summary

The job of the steam trap is to get condensate, air and non-condensable gases out of the system as quickly as they accumulate. In addition, for overall efficiency and economy, the trap must also minimize steam loss and provide dependable service.

Air can be present in steam at any time and especially on start-up. Air must be vented for efficient heat transfer and to prevent system binding.

An efficient steam trapping shall result in optimum efficiency and shall achieve:

1) Fast heat-up of heat transfer equipment
2) Maximum equipment temperature for enhanced steam heat transfer
3) Maximum equipment capacity
4) Maximum fuel economy
5) Reduced labor per unit of output
6) Minimum maintenance and a long trouble-free service life

An efficient removal of CO2 from the condensate prevents the steam distribution network and boiler from corrosion, while reducing the costs on water treatment chemicals.

Quiz

Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.

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DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.

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