Best way to test F&T traps

gcp13

I have a two pipe steam with steam traps and F&T traps combined with one pipe steam being fed from district steam at four psi
I adjust the pilot valve to lower the pressure but need to determine which of the 20 F&T traps are letting steam by,pressurizing the dry return
I started installing drains on the outlet side of a few traps but I'm getting steam pushing up from the returns so it's hard to determine which one it's coming from without replacing all of them

nicholas bonham-carter

An IR camera would probably help here as steam is just beginning to rise. How far apart are these traps?--NBC

gcp13

All directions 40-50 feet apart most of them in clusters of three or four
Tried running around as the steam was coming down but very difficult the outlets of most of them just as hot as the inlet it's hard to tell if it's condensate or not
I'd like to isolate all the groups with valves so I can shut them down and take care from one group at a time
I'd love to have an IR camera definitely would help

gcp13

I'm probably going to start repairing each trap that's on a drip from the main first
Then start each return if that doesn't do it

JohnNY

I've watched a couple videos where people use listening devices to test traps and the differences between a tight-sealing trap and a trap that passes is undeniably evident.
I'm wondering if a stethoscope wouldn't be a simple alternative to the expensive ultrasonic testing kits.

gcp13

Hoffman recommends a stethoscope but haven't tried it yet
I've also heard about using a ultrasonic tester but haven't heard any opinions on it.