Steam Traps – Basic Features, Types & Applications | SteamLok Blog

Steam Traps – Basic Features, Types & Applications

Steam Traps – Basic Features, Types & Applications

Steam traps are of different types, each designed for particular industrial uses. Knowledge of their characteristics and operations is useful in maximizing their application in steam systems.

Simple Characteristics of a Steam Trap:

  • Effective condensate removal without steam loss
  • Dirt and scale resistance
  • Energy-efficient operation
  • Least maintenance requirement

Types of Steam Traps:

A. Mechanical Steam Traps:

Ball Float & Inverted Bucket Traps: Ideally suited for process applications where the condensate load is relatively high. These traps are specifically designed for process applications.

B. Thermostatic Steam Traps:

Bimetallic Traps: Operate on the principle of metal expansion in response to temperature changes and are generally used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

Balanced Pressure Traps: Ideally suitable for tracing line and minor process applications.

C. Thermodynamic Steam Traps:

Disc Steam Traps: Lightweight and ideal for medium to high-pressure applications. They are primarily used on steam distribution lines where the condensate volume is low.