Low Spot in Steam Piping

[gjenkins]

I have a evaporator skid where I have to do a piping change to some steam piping that enters our condensers. As a result of the piping change our steam piping will a U in it where I'm concerned water will build up over time.

In an ideal world I would simply raise all our piping and other components above the top of our condensers, but then the equipment is too tall to ship and get inside the building.

Is installing a condensate trap at the bottom of the U an acceptable method to deal with this water? Is there another way to deal with this?

Thanks!

 

[pennpiper]

Think Cost vs. Results.
Put in the Steam Trap at the low point.

 

[rustbuster]

I aggree with pennpiper

 

[rmw]

If it is an evaporator skid, is the piping steam pressure at this point a positive pressure?

rmw

 

[gjenkins]

Yes. Steam pressure is around 2-3 PSIG.

 

[ione]

gjenkins,

What about differential pressure across the steam trap?

With such a low pressure on steam side you can have discharge problems (traps capacity is directly related to differential pressure). I suggest, upon condition your scenario allows this, to install the steam trap at a certain distance below the discharge outlet in a way to have enough static head to ensure condensate is effectively removed.

 

[rmw]

I think you need a specialty trap. Try here:

http://www.wrightaustinseparators.com/separator-drain-traps-models-90-95-230-350.html

rmw