Toni Ristilä
Head of Maintenance
Steam traps as part of reliable steam systems
The flawless operation of steam traps plays a key role in the energy efficiency and reliability of steam systems. Regular condition assessments and maintenance result in significant cost savings and help avoid expensive production interruptions.
Over the years, we have performed condition assessments of steam traps at both small production facilities and Finland’s largest steam consumers. Our experience shows that regardless of the plant’s size, the outcome is always the same: a well-maintained condensate system is easy and cost-effective to maintain.
In many cases, we have observed that at the beginning of our cooperation, the failure rate of steam traps has been high. In such situations, water hammer, broken pipes, and generally malfunctioning systems were commonplace, consuming a significant amount of maintenance staff’s time on damage repair.
Through regular condition assessments, measurement reports, and timely corrective actions, we have succeeded in reducing the failure rate to 1–4%. This has freed up maintenance personnel for other important tasks and brought clear energy savings due to reduced steam consumption. The resulting savings have enabled a quick payback period and significant financial benefits.
Steam trap condition surveys
We offer on-site steam trap condition surveys using the Gestra VKP EeX ultrasonic meter. These measurements ensure the operational reliability of the traps. The measurement report provides an overview of the condition of the condensate system.
The scope of the measurement report is agreed upon separately with the customer. At a minimum, the report includes detailed information about the plant’s steam traps, their current condition, and any recommended corrective actions.
If agreed, we can also evaluate the condensate system as a whole. In this case, we provide input on equipment selection, identify potential problem areas (e.g., water hammer), and suggest improvement measures.
The report may include:
- photographs of the units requiring service
- estimated live steam losses from leaking traps
- payback time for the proposed corrective measures
The measurement report can be produced using a format preferred by the customer, making it easy to share within their organization. Additionally, we offer the option of a feedback seminar to verbally and visually explain the condition of the plant’s condensate system.
Watch a short video demonstrating how the measurement and maintenance are carried out. You can turn on English subtitles.
Steam trap maintenance service
We also provide steam trap maintenance services, which include various mechanical repairs and adjustments. Our expertise is based on extensive experience, enabling us to go beyond simple mechanical part replacements by simultaneously analyzing process functionality.
After maintenance, we perform a verification measurement to ensure the trap operates flawlessly.
Our maintenance service is not limited to our own steam trap models — our expertise covers condensate systems in general.
If a steam trap is no longer serviceable, we also offer welding services either performed by our own team or through a trusted subcontractor.
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