What Is the Function of a Thermostatic Steam Trap?
Steam power has been a part of human industry for over a century. However reliable steam can be, it's not without its flaws, such as steam condensate buildup. That's where steam traps, such as the thermostatic steam trap, come into play.
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Steam Trap
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The function of any steam trap, thermostatic or otherwise, has always been to remove condensate from the steam line while preventing the escape of live steam from the system.
Thermostatic Steam Trap
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Thermostatic steam traps use the difference in temperature between the live steam and condensate or air to control the release of the condensate or air from the steam line.
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Oil-Filled Element Trap
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An oil-filled element steam trap works by use of an oil-filled element. This element expands when heated to close a valve against a seat. It can be adjusted to adapt to different temperatures, but the pressure in the system usually varies, increasing the chance of water-logging or steam escape.
Bimetallic Strip Trap
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These work on a similar principle to the oil-filled type. The bimetallic strip expands with heat and deflects as the temperature of the condensate rises. The deflection allows the strip to close the valve.
Flexible Bellows Trap
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This type of trap employs a bellows. This bellows fills with a mixture that boils at a lower temperature than the steam, causing the bellows to expand and close the valve. The trap holds back some of the condensate until it's completely cooled, reducing the pressure in the bellows and opening the valve.
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