Oversized steam traps?
Oversized steam traps?
(OP)
Hello,
I am pondering the consequence of oversizing a steam trap. I can understand why an undersized steam trap would be problematic, i.e. backing condensate into your steam header. But what would an oversized trap do? Release steam?
Any light shed on this subject would be appreciated.
I am pondering the consequence of oversizing a steam trap. I can understand why an undersized steam trap would be problematic, i.e. backing condensate into your steam header. But what would an oversized trap do? Release steam?
Any light shed on this subject would be appreciated.





RE: Oversized steam traps?
rmw
RE: Oversized steam traps?
I am specifying traps for steam tracing as well as drip lines in steam mains.
Any help would be great. Thanks,
RE: Oversized steam traps?
Also, large traps cost more than small traps so it will impact on your capital cost, especially if you use larger piping and valves to match the larger traps.
Katmar Software
Engineering & Risk Analysis Software
http://katmarsoftware.com
RE: Oversized steam traps?
I was referring more to different orifice sizes within a trap of the same body size, say a 2" trap. If, for that 2" trap, I have a choice of several orifices with discharge capacities ranging from 400 lb/hr to 2,500 lb/hr for a differential at 250 psi, and I calculate a condensate load of 500 lb/hr (with safety factor), what would be the consequence of having an orifice that can dishcarge 2,500 lb/hr when all I need is 500 lb/hr?
I may be splitting hairs here, but I am relatively new to this I want to be sure I understand.
Thanks again,
RE: Oversized steam traps?
But larger orifices still mean larger losses. This may or may not be significant. If/when a trap fails open then a large orifice of course wastes much more steam than a small orifice. For particular information on your traps call in your sales rep. Steam trap reps generally have a very good reputation for technical assistance.
Katmar Software
Engineering & Risk Analysis Software
http://katmarsoftware.com
RE: Oversized steam traps?
The inverted bucket traps could operate on higher pressures with the smaller orifices. The IB mechanism has weight to pull the valve open away from the orifice seat. Larger sized orifices of IB traps have less ability to open the valve against the steam pressure. So it would be better to select the smallest orifice size of IB trap to get required capacity for condensate flow, and avoid IB trap lockup due to overpressure on the valve to orifice seat.
If it were a thermodynamic type steam trap like small disc traps used on tracing lines, the oversized capacity traps would cycle more frequently resulting on wear and premature failure. The disc traps typically fail open, so there would be steam blowing through and consequently wasted steam. One manufacturer offers an insulation cap for their disc trap to shield it from cold wind, which would also cause it to cycle excessively.
RE: Oversized steam traps?
Take a look at the link below there's a wealth of information.
http:/
I can't see other detrimental effects on using oversized steam traps but those mentioned by katmar.