Steam Leak Calculations 2

[DMcMahan]

I am working to justify repairing steam leaks in the plant. Can anyone help me with a calculation method or table to determine the rate of steam loss through leaks to atmosphere? Would RO calculations be sufficient? I think it would be easier with a table using plume size and steam pressure. Any suggestions? Thanks.

 

[rmw]

Approach it as a leaking trap problem and look at the trap vendors information. I think they have some good stuff on wasted steam due to leaking traps. I'll leave the googling and searching to you.

rmw

 

[sshep]

I have a set of free TLV books, the one titled "Efficient Use of Process Steam" has a table for calculating leak rate based on steam pressure and hole size. The basis was orifice calculation. I figured Spirax/Sarco would have a similar table but I don't find one in their literature or on their website. On the otherhand these companies often offer free steam system surveys, and low cost plant wide steam trap testing services, etc. It might be worth your trouble to check see what of these type services are available in your area.

I think estimating based on "plume" observations is impractical because of all the process, environment, and human factors involved.

best wishes,
sshep

 

[TBP]

Even if you've got free fuel for the boilers, there are other less obvious costs, such as steam that is lost isn't returned as condensate, so there can be water costs, water treatment costs, increased blowdown rates, etc. I've never seen a case where fixing the leaks didn't pay back - and in short order. If nothing else, it's often a safety issue.

 

[krb]

DOE also has some helpful handbooks available for free. I think one of them I saw had some of the information you are looking for.

Here is a link to their websute:

http://www1.eere.energy.gov/industry/bestpractices/techpubs_steam.html

KRB

 

[dipak2]

Dear Mr.KRB....

If I have 13 MT /hr 90 barg Steam and I want to produce from 90 barg to 30 barg than what will be the Investment cost & Savings for installations of backpressure turbine ?
I think the chart that is given in your suggested website is useful but to convert 90 barg to 30 barg i think it requires extrapolations on the chart or if you have any ideas than pl. suggest

Thanks...

 

[MJCronin]

sixpak....

In what country are you located ?

What is your total yearly flowrate through this device and can you describe the steam distribution system ?


-MJC

 

[lsu003]

I found this last week looking for the same thing. I believe it will give you what you need.

http://www.energy.rochester.edu/efficiency/steam.pdf