Need pressure gauge for vapor vacuum system

Rob Sisk

I have recently replaced the vents and Vaporstat of my vapor/vacuum steam heating system to reduce the operating pressure to 8 or so ounces. One resultant issue is that pressure/vacuum gauge (which covers a range of 30" to 0" of vacuum and 0-15 psi of pressure) doesn't indicate much of anything.
Can someone recommend a source of a suitable replacement gauge?
Also, I am missing the little flapper valve steam traps on some of the radiators. While I recognize the system would probably be better without them, the return pipes leak without the traps in place. Does anyone know where to find them?

Steamhead

\"Flapper Valve Steam Traps\"?

Is this a Kriebel system? Or maybe a Donnelly?

Where are your returns leaking? If you are getting steam out of the vents on the returns, maybe all you need to do is reduce the operating pressure.

If your gauge is not moving, check the "pigtail" pipe loop underneath it. Many times this will clog with gunk. If you find the pigtail is not clogged, I believe Winters Instruments makes the gauge you want. Try this link-

http://www.winters.com/pre_lowpressure.html

To comply with Code requirements, you must also have a 30-pound gauge on the boiler. this is so you will have a gauge that will indicate up to twice the boiler's (not the system's) maximum working pressure. On most steamers this is 15 pounds.

To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"

Rob Sisk

Thanks for your reply. Mine is a Kriebel system. The leaks are at the dry return fittings on the radiator outlets. The steam traps are small conical pieces that fit into the dry return elbow and are compressed between the horizontal radiator outlet and the dry return elbow. They incorporate a small vertical flapper valve (about a quarter inch square) that hangs vertically and allows free movement from the radiator to the dry return but prevents air from being sucked into the radiator from the dry return during condensation. With the steam trap missing, the radiator outlet fitting doesn't tighten down against the outlet elbow.
I will check the pigtail and if clear, I'll order a new gauge. Thanks.