Wiley Boiler Return - Why?

takoateli

We're working on a two pipe system that we're having trouble getting working right.

Why isn't the condensate returned using gravity like other boilers?

Is a steam powered boiler return required when using a two pipe system?

Steamhead

@takoateli , that Return Trap is there to make sure the condensate can return to the boiler if the boiler's pressure gets too high for it to return by gravity. It's basically a pressure-powered pump that only kicks in if the condensate doesn't return.

What exactly is the problem you're trying to solve?

EBEBRATT-Ed

@takoateli

The boiler builds pressure when steaming. The water will "stack up" in the return lines about 12" if the boiler has 1/2 lb steam pressure. 2 psi steam it will stack up 4'


Sometimes you do not have the height for that the water could be stacking up into the radiators depending on your steam pressure.

With vapor you pressure should be very low.

On a 1 pipe system the steam pressure at the end of the steam main assists in pushing the water back to the boiler.

With vapor or two pipe steam after the steam traps you have no pressure to assist in pushing the condensate back to the boiler so it relies on stacking height. If you don't have the height available, you need a pump or steam powered pump to do this for you.

takoateli

Thanks guys!

Working on the job now. I'll post more later.