7 STRATEGIES FOR USING CHECK VALVES IN STEAM CONDENSATE SYSTEMS
Steam Condensate Systems
A number of our customers depend on using steam as an origin of energy within their industrial chemical processes. While steam is fantastic for powering numerous industrial processes, the resulting condensate must be taken off the steam line as rapidly as you possibly can after its formation. Otherwise, lingering condensate may cause water hammer along with other problems. Letting it pool within the piping in which a pressure drop could make it flash (the abrupt vaporization of the liquid). This can lead to cavitation, erosion, excessive noise and valve failure.
Steam traps are built inside the system to be able to contain steam and take away the condensate because it is created. When both of these primary goals of the steam condensate system are carried out properly, gravity will probably be your friend, and also the condensate will flow downhill.
The Check Valve's Role
Once removed, the condensate is generally taken and recycled into the system. A correctly selected and installed quick-closing check valve is important to be able to eliminate reverse flow and reduce the results of flashing.
Check valves, which control the flow of fluid (gas or liquid) one way, are opened up through the velocity from the forward-moving fluid. With respect to the kind of check valve, they close once the flow slows, stops, or reverses, stopping the fluid from flowing within the reverse direction. Look at this if you'd just like a run-lower on the different sorts of check valves.
Of the several kinds of check valves, silent check valves are the type you want to discuss with regards to steam condensate systems. Silent check valves make use of a spring-loaded disc that closes once the flow velocity reaches zero and before it reverses. This eliminates the noise and vibration brought on by swing check valves once the reverse flow slams them closed.
Talking to a specialist when installing a steam trap is suggested, and it'll assistance to eliminate any potential issues. Below are great tips for implementing check valves in steam condensate systems:
Check valves ought to be installed to avoid backflow and siphoning of condensate in the return primary equipment.
Gravity rules. Condensate needs so that you can flow downhill in the tactic to the steam trap.
Verify the pressure ratings from the valves getting used are sufficient for that pressure that'll be created through the system.
Installing strainers which will collect any dirt or scale will extend the existence from the check valves.
Yet another check valve can also be installed in the cheapest temperature reason for a method like a vacuum breaker as needed. When done properly, it'll available to the environment as opposed to the return line inside the system in order to not get any condensate.
The check valve ought to be installed following the steam trap.
Correct sizing of check valves is important for steam service. Over-sizing increases the chance of erosion. It's vital that you be aware of the pressure, temperature and expected flow rate when sizing silent check valves for steam condensate systems.
SHINJO Silent Check Valves using their specifically engineered stainless helical spring would be the valve preferred by effectively controlling water hammer along with other hazardous pressure surges. They're ideal for condensate return lines with pressures as much as 300 psi. The conventional soft seats are great in which a bubble-tight seal is needed provided the temperature won't exceed 250°F (121°C). Metal-to-metal seats (stainless) are secure to be used as much as 350°F (177°C) and could be used if the climate is likely to be greater. Take a look at our catalog for other available choices or call us.