8. Troubleshooting
If the expected performance is unachievable after installation of the steam trap, read chapters 4
and 5 again and check the following points to take appropriate corrective measures.
Problem
Diagnosis (Cause)
Remedy
No condensate
is discharged
(blocked) or
discharge is poor
Steam is
discharged or
leaks from the
trap outlet
(blowing)
(steam leakage)
Steam is leaking
from a place
other than the
outlet
Float frequently
becomes damaged
Compare specifications
with actual operating
conditions
Change to a suitable piping
arrangement
Inspect and clean
Clean or replace with a new
float/lever unit
Clean or replace with a new
trap unit (main valve unit)
Replace with a new float
Replace with a product that
has a suitable capacity
rating
Clean or replace with new
parts/units
Clean or replace with a new
float/lever unit
Clean or replace with a new
X-element
Install correctly
Lengthen the inlet piping
and fasten it securely
Replace with new gasket(s)
Tighten to the proper
torque
Replace with a new product
Study and correct the piping
Check to see if operating conditions are outside the
specification ranges:
- Is the pressure differential suitable for the amount
of condensate generated?
- Has the maximum operating pressure been
exceeded?
Check to see if the trap installation method and
location are suitable:
- Is the trap inlet pipe installed so the fluid flows
downward naturally?
- Is the size of the inlet and outlet pipes suitable?
- Has steam-locking occurred?
Check the inlet and outlet valve open/close status
and check to see if valve is clogged with dirt:
- Are inlet and outlet valves fully open?
- Is the inlet strainer clogged with dirt?
- Are the pipes clogged with dirt?
- Is there accumulated dirt at the bottom of the body,
particularly below the trap unit (main valve unit)?
Check sliding sections of float/lever unit:
- Is rust and/or scale obstructing movement of the
lever unit?
- Is the movement of the float lever smooth?
Check sliding sections of the trap unit (main valve
unit):
- Is there rust and/or scale caught between the
float and valve seat?
- Is the movement of the valve smooth?
Check the float to see if it is damaged or filled with
water
Check minimum required condensate amount:
- Actual condensate amount falls below minimum
required amount
Check the trap unit (main valve unit):
- Check for a clogged valve opening or rust and
scale under the float
- Check for damage to the valve opening
- Check for rust and scale in the sliding sections
- Is the movement of the valve smooth?
- Are the gaskets deteriorated or damaged?
Check sliding sections of float/lever unit:
- Is rust and/or scale obstructing movement of the
float/lever unit?
- Is the movement of the float/lever unit smooth?
Check air vent:
- Check for damage to or rust and scale on the X-
element
Check for proper installation
Check for trap vibration
Check for gasket deterioration or damage
Check to make sure that the proper tightening
torques were used
Erosion has occurred in the body or cover
Check to see if water hammer has occurred
English
