Steam trap insulation

[jflsys]

Hi,

I work for a company specialized in steam system optimization. In our projects, we insulate all pipes, but we have never insulated steam traps.

I would be glad to hear about experiences or opinions on this topic.

Obviously, steam trap insulation needs to be removable, so that it doesn't act as a deterrent to regular steam trap maintenance. There are a number of products that fit this requirement : some are two-part shells and some are insulated fabric tied with straps.

One important question I have is : will personnel dutifully replace it after steam trap inspection or will they eventually ditch it?

And does the cost/benefit ratio make it worthwhile?

lalondesysthermique inc.

http://www.systhermique.com

 

[trtom59]

jflsys,

You can certainly insulate density operated & thermodynamic steam traps. I would not insulate thermostatic steam traps.

The economics will likely favor physically larger traps that operate continuously. However the small heat loss off a single thermodynamic trap may not seem worthwhile to save, if multiplied by a large site population, may prove feasible on a project basis.

I have found that survey identification tags are often not reattached when a trap is replaced, but I would say that an insulation blanket would be replaced because it is readily identified as a job/project close out item.