Spec Break after Steam Trap - Why?
I have a steam heater with a steam trap at the outlet of the HP steam side.
1/
I have noticed there is a spec break after the steam trap (at outlet
flange of a manual valve(Bellow Seal Valves) just downstream the steam trap) and that the
ratings upstream and downstream the steam trap are significantly
different.
It is not the first time i see such a thing but i can't explain why. Do you have an idea?
2/ Also, may the fluid at the steam trap inlet be "saturated condensate"? or "liquid/vapor"?
3/ And, may the fluid at the steam trap outlet be "liquid/vapor"?, "saturated steam"?
Condensate return systems can run at a significantly lower pressure than
the steam supply. Be careful about overpressuring the condensate
system with the steam if the return system has a lower pressure
rating.
The trap inlet fluid should be saturated condensate and the oulet vapor liquid.
1. Steam line and condensate line usually experience different pressures.
2. Steam
traps act as automatic valves which open to release condensate and
close in presence of steam (this is virtually true as some steam could
escape from the trap with variable amounts depending on trap type)
3. Released
condensate is a saturated liquid which can flash again to steam.
Equilibrium conditions cease as pressure changes (decreases). The amount
of flash steam depends on upstream and downstream conditions
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