How to Diagnose a Steam Trap Failure
Steam traps are wonderful tools, helping regulate piping systems and heat exchangers for long life and maximum efficiency. But steam traps, like all mechanical systems, can fail–resulting in dangerous conditions and major increases in cost. Line debris and scale can jam up a steam trap, sealing steam in or disrupting the moving pieces. Water hammer (a dangerous condition caused when water is carried along a steam line) can dent, bend, or even break fragile parts. Freezing conditions can clog or even destroy a steam trap. It’s essential that operators and maintenance personnel know how to recognize these failures, so the problem can be fixed promptly and safely.
The Number One Concern for All Boiler Operators Everywhere
Steamworks has directly communicated with thousands of boiler operators over the past 20 years. Without questions, when it comes to steam boiler operation, safety is—and always will be—the top concern.
The reason for this is every decision a boiler operator makes, from startup to shut down, has a direct impact on the safety of personnel, equipment, and the facility itself. Steam under pressure is one of the most powerful forces in an industrial environment, and even small lapses in procedure can have catastrophic consequences.
Exempt Eases Regulatory Requirements, but it Doesn’t Reduce Risks
Many industrial facilities operate under “exempt” status, meaning they are not required by state law to employ licensed boiler operators. While this exemption may ease regulatory requirements, it does not reduce the risks associated with operating steam systems.
6 Ways Energy Fluctuations Impact Steam Systems
An increase in energy demand in a manufacturing environment can have a significant impact on the operation of an industrial steam boiler. Let’s explore 6 ways energy fluctuations impact steam systems.
Causes and Risks of Valve Malfunctions
Valves are critical components of an industrial steam boiler system — controlling steam flow, maintaining pressure, ensuring safety, and isolating sections for maintenance. When they malfunction, it can compromise safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Let’s look at potential breakdowns of common valve malfunctions, their causes, and the risks they pose. And we’ll cover the 5 best practices to prevent valve malfunctions.
Sustainable Practices for Steam Systems
With growing emphasis on sustainable practices, you no doubt feel the pressure to reduce the environmental impact of your steam systems. And you are expected to do this in addition to your daily responsibilities. It can seem like an unattainable endeavor, especially with older equipment and tight budgets. Steamworks feels your pain.
What Conditions Merit an Emergency Shutdown?
The potential uncontrolled energy release in a boiler is tremendous. It’s a huge responsibility. Additionally, shutting down boilers are often a major upset to the entire plant process. After all, they keep the plant humming along.
Because of this the boiler operating job should - at least in part – feel like a lot of rehearsal. The old adage, “if you don’t use it, you lose it” certainly rings true here. Since the stakes are so high, an operator needs to understand the equipment and a certain level of courage to act in moments that need a response. Of course, responding competently is the key in keeping safety standards high and operational concerns at bay.