Inspector 400 Applications
Locating Faulty Steam Traps
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Inspector 400 Ultrasonic Probe
User Manual
Figure 10.
Locating Faulty Steam Traps
An ultrasonic test of steam traps is a positive test.
The main advantage to ultrasonic testing is that it
isolates the area being tested by eliminating confusing
background noises. A user can quickly adjust to
recognizing differences among various steam traps, of
which there are three basic types: mechanical,
thermostatic, and thermodynamic.
When testing steam traps ultrasonically:
•
Determine what type of trap is on the line. Be
familiar with the operation of the trap. Is it
intermittent or continuous drain?
•
Try to check whether the trap is in operation (is
it hot or cold? Put your hand near, but do not
touch the trap, or better yet, use an SKF non-
contact infrared thermometer).
