7. Operational Check
(When conducting a visual inspection, flash steam is sometimes mistaken for steam leakage. For
this reason, the use of a steam trap diagnostic instrument such as TLV TrapMan is highly
recommended.)
Operational inspections should be performed at least twice per year, or as called for by trap
operating conditions. Steam trap failure may result in temperature drop in the equipment, poor
product quality or losses due to steam leakage.
Normal:
Condensate is discharged in a short blast followed by a longer period of no
drainage. During the discharge, flash steam may be seen. A small amount of flash
steam may be visible after the discharge.
Blocked:
(Discharge
Impossible)
No condensate is discharged. The trap is quiet and makes no noise. The surface
temperature of the trap is low.
Blowing:
Live steam continually flows from the outlet, and there is a continuous metallic
sound.
Steam
Leakage:
Live steam is discharged through the trap outlet together with condensate,
accompanied by a high-pitched sound.
Chattering:
The trap does not close properly. Steam is discharged from the trap in short rapid
bursts.
8. Inspection and Maintenance
• Installation, inspection, maintenance, repairs, disassembly, adjustment
and valve opening/closing should be carried out only by trained
maintenance personnel.
• Before attempting to open the trap, close the inlet and outlet isolating
valves and wait until the trap has cooled completely. Failure to do so may
result in burns.
• Be sure to use the proper components and NEVER attempt to modify the
product.
CAUTION
Body, Cover
Gaskets
Screen
Disc
Disc Holder Ring
Air Vent Ring
Module Valve Seat Surface
Check inside for damage, dirt, grease, oil film, rust or scale
Check for warping or damage
Check for clogging or corrosion damage
Check for damage or wear
Check for damage or wear
Check for damage or wear
Check for damage or wear
Parts Inspection Procedure
Flash Steam
White jet
containing
water droplets
Live Steam Leakage
Clear, slightly
bluish jet
A visual inspection can be carried out to aid in determining the necessity for immediate
maintenance or repair, if the trap is open to atmosphere. If the trap does not discharge to
atmosphere, use diagnostic equipment such as TLV TrapMan or TLV Pocket TrapMan (within its
pressure and temperature measuring range).
̶ 6 ̶
