Rebuilding Steam traps

jsher · September 18

I recently ordered some rebuild kits for 13 steams traps in my building. I am not a steam guy but after being here for a few years I realize there is some preventative and general maintenance that must be done. The steam trap kits seem cut and dry but there is tricks to everything. I am looking for suggested tool for knocking off scale in trap? Also what tool works best if the old gasket is stuck? I also read I should sand the area before applying the new gasket, what grit sandpaper?

I also like to add blow-downs to all my wye strainers. What's the best way to do this? Just thread a short nipple and add a valve with a plug? I really want to know what brand and style valve is suggested.

Lastly I noticed this setup appears to be missing a relief valve in the last picture? Unless there is a reason for that I could be unaware of?

Thanks for any input! I am just a custodian who has only figured out these terms and info from being in this building and reading up on how these systems work. I realize steam can be very efficient when maintained. From reading through old posts here it sounds like there is plenty of buildings like mine that have never done any preventative maintenance and only acknowledge things when they break.

mattmia2 · September 18

Do the first 2 traps have a vacuum breaker at the inlet?

pecmsg · September 18

never seize is your friend.

On the bolts

On the gaskets

On any and all moving parts

mattmia2 · September 18

you can remove the gaskets with a razor blade or gasket scraper or even a chisel, hold the blade almost parallel to the surface and be careful not to gouge in to the surface. you can use scotchbrite to remove what won't scrape off. On engines and gearcases and such you need to wash them well after using scotchbrite so you don't get the abrasive in to the internal mechanics but that is less important with steam.