Automatic Blowdowns for steam

Steamhead

I don't know of anyone who makes something like this. Since probe-type LWCOs came out, maybe the manufacturers assume float-type units will be phased out eventually. But we all know that's not the way things work in this business.

An auto-blowdown would have to have a quick-opening/quick-closing valve to wash as much dirt out as possible and close tightly, and a way to verify that the LWCO switch actually tripped when the float chamber emptied. It would also have to have a way to blow the unit down manually if needed. There may be other Code-related issues also.

If the boilers in question will accept probe-type LWCOs (check with the manufacturer) I'd change them over.

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John G. Merritt

Automatic blowdowns for steam

Hi fellas!

Do they make an automatic blowdown valve for residential Steam Boilers?
Most of the customers at my company do not blow down their boilers (Low water controls) and many are older people who can't get around so good, and some can't get around at all!
So, If they make such a device it would sure solve a big problem.
John

Art Pittaway_2

Auto Blowdown

system was marketed by McD'&Miller a number of years ago and discontinued. I remember it as a well thought out piece of equipment and not cheap. I think it had two problems, #1 Liability, it was still a valve set with controls and it could fail. #2 Low sales figures and resistance from engineers, see #1. Maybe you should add a blowdown service to your company line card. You don't need a fitter to do it but train someone you can trust to do a simple weekly or monthly maint. call. Just a thought.

Alan R. Mercurio

Helen Thomas

This reminds me of one of my very good customers. Mrs. Thomas was in her 90'S and had been a customer of the company since my bosses Dad started the business over 40 years ago then. I just had it marked on my calendar to stop by and take care of that for her once a month. I know it should be once week but I was doing the best I could. I never charged her or a few other long time loyal customers.

I just did it while I was in the area or sometimes I would take this as an opportunity to stop by and have a cup of coffee and say hello taking care of the LWCO before leaving.

For others that were capable of doing this but chose not to I found they were happy to pay a fixed cost to have this service provided.

Your friend in the industry,
Alan R. Mercurio

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