Survey services utilizes the latest technology in ultrasonic equipment and the most comprehensive steam trap software available: SteamWorks Pro by Conserv-it Software. Each trap’s number, location, application, size, manufacturer and model number is logged in. Specific problems such as: water hammer; improper sizing of condensate return systems; misapplied steam trap types; over-sizing and poorly designed piping configurations are also noted. After thorough documentation, the trap is ultrasonically tested. Ultrasound heterodynes the operational sound of the steam trap and actually allows us to hear the trap’s operation. It is the only positive test available which accurately and instantaneously allows a performance evaluation of the trap to be made. Infrared temperature readings are taken at the inlet and outlet of the trap, then an ultrasonic test is completed to determine trap status. Data is documented in the software for later calculation of inlet/outlet pressures; monetary losses calculated for those traps found leaking of blowing.
Monetary loss due to blowing traps in the system can have a dramatic effect on the bottom line. The chart below is based a steam cost of $ 8.00/1,000 lbs. of steam produced.
To compute steam loss through an orifice:
24.24 x PSIA x (diameter of orifice in inches)
To convert psi to PSIA: add 14.7. Therefore, 100 PSI steam is 114.7 PSIA (absolute)
Example: Compute steam loss through a 1/8″ orifice at 100 PSI steam?
24.24 x 114.7 x (.125 x .125) = 43.44
To estimate total cost of system-wide loss: Multiply the steam loss by hours of operation, steam cost (usually between $4.00 and $14.00 per 1,000 lbs.) and by the number of faulty traps.