About Steam Traps
Steam traps are vital components of steam systems. A steam trap is a device used to discharge condensate and non-condensable gasses from the steam system. Most steam traps are simple automatic valves that open and close based on condensate levels. When functioning properly, they discharge the undesirables from the steam system without losing any live steam.
Insulating Steam Traps
Steam traps may fail when they leak steam or do not pass enough condensation. Steam traps have a notoriously high rate of failure. For this reason, they must be inspected and maintained regularly. Thus, they cannot be insulated with traditional, stay-in-place insulation. As a result, most steam traps remain uninsulated.
The surfaces of steam traps typically get quite hot, and radiate away valuable heat. For example, a small typical 1” un-insulated steam trap station loses more than $ 200.00 per year in wasted energy. The steam trap portion of this station usually accounts for 40%-50% of the trap station loss. Furthermore, if the steam trap is extremely hot, it may pose a safety hazard if left completely uncovered. While not every type of steam trap can be insulated the same way – or at all – insulation remains a no-brainer for many steam traps. However, more often than not, steam traps that could be insulated simply never are, and needlessly waste energy as a result.
Steam Trap Insulation Jackets
Our removable insulation jackets for steam traps can help you save significant amounts of energy and keep the workplace safer.