Additional components are often left out of steam systems to reduce costs. This can be a false economy, since isolation valves, check valves, strainers, separators, gauges, sight glasses, and vacuum breakers are all important to an energy-efficient steam system.
Isolation Valves - Linear Movement
Used to stop the flow of fluid into an area of the system, we look at the different types of gate valves, globe valves, piston valves, and diaphragm valves. We also look at options for valve stems, and how to seal them.
Isolation Valves - Rotary Movement
Sometimes known as quarter-turn valves, we delve into ball valves and their various options, and butterfly valves. This section also gives details on selecting isolation valves, including their sizing, with comprehensive charts and the equations for getting to the right choice.
Check Valves
Also known as non-return valves, a check valve will only allow flow in one direction. The main types used for steam are lift, swing, wafer, and disc check valves. Ball and diaphragm check valves are usually used in fluid applications. Formulae for calculating pressure drops are also given.
Strainers
Usually classified as either Y-type or basket type, strainers prevent damage from debris in flowing liquids or gases, so reducing plant downtime and unplanned maintenance costs. Here we take a detailed look at the options, and how to select the right size, depending upon your processes.
Separators
Important tools in reducing 'wet steam', separators come in various forms. We look at baffle, cyclonic, and coalescence separators, detailing which option to choose, and how to calculate the dryness fraction.
Gauges Sight Glasses Vacuum Breakers
Though relatively small in size, these play a big part in the smooth running of energy-efficient steam systems. We examine what each does, and how they work.