How a Steam Condensate Pump Works
Condensate systems are often used to collect condensate from another system and move it back to the boiler room. Steam-powered pumps, or pressure-powered pumps, are one example of condensate pumps useful for hot condensate. Does this Spark an idea?
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Purpose
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Steam-powered condensate pumps are typically used in hazardous environments or places without electricity. Hot condensate can also be collected as boiler feed water.
Function
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A steam condensate pump uses steam or air pressure instead of electricity. The steam pushes the condensate from the receiver back to a boiler. The receiver must fill with condensate first before it is pushed back. This cycle is simple and does not rely on external power. It also prevents cavitation which is when the pump impeller of a mechanical system fails due to hot condensate eroding the system.
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Warning
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In condensate systems with a steam trap, a larger steam trap is required for some pressure-powered systems because it must be able to endure the high instantaneous discharge of the pump when it pushes the condensate.
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