Surprisingly, many steam traps go uninspected. In an industry that relies upon the efficient harnessing of steam, an outdated or overlooked steam trap can waste many thousands of dollars every year. For companies looking to improve efficiency and to minimize waste, steam trap experts recommend the installation and maintenance of up-to-date equipment with regular assessments.
High pressure steam systems need more regular maintenance than low pressure ones, experts say. For high pressure systems, a monthly or even more frequent inspection is recommended, while for low pressure systems, systematic yearly maintenance should be adequate.
In older types of steam traps, up to one-third of the steam trap parts may be out of working order. There should not be many leaks in newer systems, and newly installed steam trap valves and other steam products should come with a warranty that lasts one year.
Experts say that a typical steam trap should endure for up to seven years, depending on how hard it needs to be worked. When about one-fifth of all of the steam available for production is lost due to leaking, out-of-date steam trap valves and steam vents, the push toward modernization can be measured in time and money lost to malfunctioning parts.
Some companies install Spirax traps, citing dependability and suitability to their steam needs. Spirax traps, Hoffman steam traps, and Mepco traps are some of the wide variety of brands that companies have to choose from. A company’s needs may vary, and there are many varieties of steam traps on the market: thermodynamic traps, inverted bucket traps, FandT traps (float and thermostatic), and radiator traps are all typically for sale by companies that specialize in steam trap parts.
Proper steam trap maintenance, experts say, can reduce waste to the bare minimum, saving thousands of dollars every year. A loss of $8,000 may be reduced to $80, delighting companies that rely on steam trap parts to run their businesses.
