The control valve as a universal steam trap replacement

Abstract

The steam trap is considerably overlooked and unappreciated within the steam and condensate distribution system. Its role is to remove condensate and non-condensables from the primary steam loop. However, the conventional methods used today are the devices developed a century ago. An original study was conducted to evaluate the universal replacement of conventional steam trap technology with control valves. The condensate flowrate is determined by using a standardized steam trap performance test. During experimentation, the mass flowrate is acquired through the utilization of a weigh tank technique. Results indicated that the application of a control valve is feasible and provides remarkable advantages over the traditional approach. Improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness are evident through the performance attributes of the control valve, which includes auxiliary prediction and diagnostic capabilities. A response surface methodology successfully validates the use of theoretical models for practical design consideration.