Email this pageFree Float Steam Traps for Main Lines
Some typical characteristics of steam distribution mains are that the amount of condensate generated in them is quite small, their hours of operation are quite long, and they are often found in outdoor installations. Therefore the steam traps used on these mains must have only very small amounts of steam lost during condensate discharge cycles, and the traps must offer reliable, stable long-term operation. The Free Float Steam Traps for Main Lines were designed with precisely these points in mind, and are therefore ideal for use on steam distribution mains.
Features
Free float trap with unique 3-point float seating structure
- Maintains a tight seal even under low condensate load conditions
- Superior durability and reliability
- Body is made to highly durable and corrosion resistant specifications
- Can also be used with welded connections
- Automatically and rapidly discharges air and cold condensate
Body is protected from radiant heat loss (option)
- Custom insulated cover can be equipped optionally on models SS3N / SS3V
Can also be used on space-saving vertical piping
- Models available for vertical or horizontal piping
- Uses a universal flange (models FS3 / FS5 / FS5H)
Applications
- Steam mains, which require energy conservation and durability
- Steam tracer lines, etc.
- High pressure, high temperature steam mains (SH series)
Line-up
| Operating Pressure | Body Material | Construction | Model / Specification Data Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 2.1 MPaG | Cast stainless steel | Repairable | SS1NL / SS1NH / SS1VL / SS1VH |
| Up to 2.1 MPaG | Stainless steel | All-welded maintenance-free | SS3N / SS3V |
| Up to 3.2 MPaG | Stainless steel | All-welded maintenance-free | SS5N / SS5V |
| Up to 4.6 MPaG | Stainless steel | All-welded maintenance-free | SS5NH / SS5VH |
| Up to 2.1 MPaG | Stainless steel | Universal flange | FS3 |
| Up to 3.2 MPaG | Stainless steel | Universal flange | FS5 |
| Up to 4.6 MPaG | Stainless steel | Universal flange | FS5H |
| Up to 4.5 MPaG | Cast steel | Repairable | SH3NL |
| Up to 6.5 MPaG | Cast steel | Repairable | SH5VL | SH5NL | SH6NL |
| Up to 8.0 MPaG | Cast steel | Repairable | SH5NH |
| Up to 10.0 MPaG | Cast steel | Repairable | SH6NH |
Free float trap with unique 3-point float seating
Free float
In free float traps, which use no levers or hinges, the float is moved by the force of buoyancy. The distance between the float and the orifice changes in response to the amount of condensate that enters the trap and the corresponding change in level of condensate, resulting in the orifice widely opening and closing with the float itself functioning as the valve.
As the free float itself - a precision-ground hollow sphere - is the valve, the entire surface of the float functions as valve sealing surfaces. This guarantees superior reliability and long service life. As the float is moved by the force of buoyancy and the level of the condensate inside the steam trap is always slightly higher than the valve orifice, the valve orifice is under a continuous water-seal, so no steam can escape.
Float 3-point seating structure
Due to this structure, the seating of the float is stabilized for improved sealing properties. Calculated 3-dimensionally, the guide that ensures the float is able to fully close the valve orifice contains 2 seating points, and these together with the valve orifice make a total of 3 seating points for the float. With this 3-point seating structure, there is no steam (or air or gas) leakage even in cases where the condensate load is so small that a water seal is not possible.
Steam Loss / Age Deterioration
SS1NL/SS1NH/SS1VL/SS1VH versus Typical Disc Type Trap
The combination with a precision-ground float yields superior sealing properties and long service life.
Deterioration/Wear Rate Comparison
Stainless Steel Body
The SS and FS series body and valve seat are made of stainless steel to resist rust and corrosion, yielding long service life and sustained like-new high performance levels.
Built-in bimetal air vent
Operation Animation (SS1NL / SS1NH)
In typical disc type traps, when air reaches the inlet, the disc is closed and the air cannot be discharged. In the Free Float Steam Trap Series for Main Lines, the bimetal strip reacts to the temperature and, when it is cold, holds the float up away from the orifice, automatically and rapidly discharging any air and cold condensate. This eliminates the need to open a bypass valve each time the equipment is started up, and thus saves labor.
Venting Feature (SS1NL / SS1NH / SS1VL / SS1VH)
The built-in bimetal air vent feature rapidly discharges the initial air.
Body is Protected from Radiant Heat Loss (option)
Custom insulated cover can be equipped optionally on models SS3N / SS3V
The cover provides freedom from the need to perform bothersome insulation measures, as the ceramic fiber insulating material offers highly effective insulation. The stainless steel exterior affords superior durability while retaining its good looks indefinitely.
Effectiveness of the insulated cover
The insulated cover minimizes the effects of wind and weather, which results in a substantial savings in energy.
Can Also Be Used on Space-saving Vertical Piping
Models are available for either vertical or horizontal piping
Each model in the SS1 / SS3 / SS5 series is available in both a vertical and a horizontal type. SH5VL is available only in a vertical type.
Uses a universal flange (models FS3 / FS5 / FS5H)
The trap can be easily and economically replaced by anyone by simply removing 2 bolts. It can be installed on either horizontal or vertical piping.