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Trap testing and F&T traps

HowardLong
HowardLong Member Posts: 15
in Strictly Steam

I recently began experimenting with using a steam cleaner to test traps. The only one I have immediately with me is an Illinois float and thermostatic trap. It seems to be working but when there is no water in it and nothing is condensated yet there is a very small amount of steam which still leaks through. Is this normal for a float and thermostatic trap? Do these traps stop most of the steam with the thermostatic portion and will only fully seal once they have condensate?

Comments

  • 109A_5
    109A_5 Member Posts: 3,071

    The float valve may be basically water tight but steam may leak through if no condensate is present. What pressure does your steam cleaner produce, that may be a factor too.

    The thermostatic valve may leak slightly also.

    It would surprise me if those two valves are and remain 100% gas tight over the life of the unit.

    National - U.S. Gas Boiler 45+ Years Old
    Steam 300 SQ. FT. - EDR 347
    One Pipe System
  • HowardLong
    HowardLong Member Posts: 15
    edited 12:15AM

    Ok, here's a video of it. I think i broke this trap during testing though.

    The unit itself produces something like 30psi. And originally i had jt plumbed right in, so i think i damaged it. Now I've changed the arrangement so i have control of the pressure to the trap.

    https://youtu.be/6Nfgxc2Qhoo?si=HlV00wXN8keTxk5U

  • 109A_5
    109A_5 Member Posts: 3,071

    Yeah, that seems a bit excessive, if it was not broke, it probably is now.

    National - U.S. Gas Boiler 45+ Years Old
    Steam 300 SQ. FT. - EDR 347
    One Pipe System

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