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what the !***%$#! is this

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anyone have an idea what this is? it is on a steam sysyem in a basement and is connected to the condasate line neat the boiler

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  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,843
    edited September 2011
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    It's the main air vent

    which works by differential expansion.



    This is a Kriebel system. The vent is probably connected to a float trap that closes if water rises into it. The radiators have little check valves called "bafflers" at their outlet connections. The whole system can run on a few ounces pressure- a Vaporstat is a must!



    Read about the Kriebel system in chapter 15 of "The Lost Art of Steam Heating".
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
    Oil & Gas Burner Service
    Consulting
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