vacuum condensate system

DanHolohan

It's possible (especially during the spring and fall) for there to be a deeper natural vacuum on the radiator side of the radiator traps than there is in the returns (by way of the vacuum pump). When this happens, the condensate won't flow from the radiators into the returns when the radiator traps open. That equalizer keeps the vacuum from being deeper on the supply side than it is on the return. The water seal is there to hold a tight seal on the check valve.

John_33

Vacuum Condensate System

Maine's old cities are a mecca for the Lost Art. I just wish I had more time to spend learning it. I'm scratching my head to figure out part of this "vacuum condensate" system serving an old commercial low-pressure heating system. It consists of a Jennings (approx) 5-gallon receiver and 3 gpm condensate pump, whose vent does not go to atmosphere but is instead connected to a B&J #397 "vent trap" which has a built-in one-way air vent. The trap itself is piped from a port on its top, back to the steam main. This horizontal connection is fitted with a small (approx 4" high) water trap (i.e. a "U" made with 90's and nipples), at the bottom of which is a check valve, opening towards the steam main. And there's a bypass pipe, which goes only around the "vent trap".
I'm guessing(?) the pump creates a vacuum to assist the transfer of steam from the boiler to the nearby piping, but it's the purpose of that connection back to the steam main, and the water trap and check valve, that has me wondering. Get me a seer and raise the dead men.

Mad Dog

The Dead men are alive and well......

if I were you, I'd get a hold of Noel From Slant Fin the next time he goes home (New Hampshire)and have him pay a visit. He will quell your steam woes. Mad Dog

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