Question for SteamHead

Dave Stroman

When you are repairing radiator steam traps, is it better to get the Barnes & Jones cage units, or get the same brand repair kits if available. I have some Hoffman 17c where the repair kit costs more that a BJ cage unit.

Next question. I have a 2 pipe steam system where all the air is vented through a 3/4 F&T trap. I wonder how much air can pass through it before I need another air vent some where. Perhaps just before the F&T trap.

Last question. I have a radiator where the take off from the main runs about 15' to the raditor. Not much slope. Could this be why it will not heat more than 3 or 4 sections? Or does it sound more like a trap problem.

Dave in Denver

Steamhead

Answers

1. If the OEM kit is available I'd use it. B&J makes a great product but it's a retrofit.

2. It depends. Is the trap on the steam main or the return? If the steam main, what is its length and diameter?

3. There's not much counterflow in a 2-pipe steam runout. But pitch might be a problem, however I'd check the trap first. Also if this rad is near the end of the main, the main may not have enough venting capacity.

Hope this helps.

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