Methods For Testing Steam-Trap Stations

Testing steam-trap stations can be very easy if the plant provides the correct equipment, training and commitment to the steam-system management program When it comes to testing steam traps, a frequently asked question is, “what is the best method?” The true answer is to use all of the technologies available today. No single test method provides the best results all of the time for the variety of applications, installations and steam-trap types in industrial plant operations. Therefore, all tools available in the marketplace should be implemented and used where appropriate. So, what are these tools? They can be segmented into three categories: Visual Temperature Ultrasound Becoming proficient with these tools is like riding a bicycle — the more you ride the bicycle, the better you become. Practice and gaining the knowledge of the methods is the key to successfully using the different devices.   Visual methods The use of a testing-tee valve arrangement, testing-valve combination, or an inline sight glass for reviewing the steam trap discharging to the atmosphere is a very effective way of testing steam traps (Figures 1 and 2). This visual method can accurately determine the following conditions: Blow-through…