Steam Condensate Return System

Figure 14 1 4 shows a simple steam and condensate circuit with condensate returning to the boiler feedtank.

Steam condensate return system.

Flash steam is discussed briefly in module. Some engineers believe that condensate return pipes are completely filled with condensate. These pipes will carry condensate incondensable gases and flash steam from the trap to the condensate return system figure 14 2 5. In a pressurized condensate recovery system recovered condensate is maintained above atmospheric pressure.

A typical example is the draining of condensate from steam traps installed on main utility steam lines. In addition to eliminating flash loss the hpr increases the efficiency of production equipment. There are several factors that impact the reliability performance longevity and maintenance requirements for the condensate piping system. So the condensate pump had a second life continuing in service to return condensate not to vassar s steam system but locally to the in home steam boiler by piping returning condensate up across the basement and down to the new steam boiler.

In a vented condensate recovery system steam trap inlet pressure or a condensate pump is used to return condensate to an open to atmosphere collection tank for use as boiler make up water pre heat or other hot water applications. Flash steam is formed as the condensate is discharged from the high pressure space before the steam trap to the lower pressure space of the condensate return system. Condensate recovery allows you to use all of the valuable btu within the steam system. Condensate recovery systems help you reduce three tangible costs of producing steam.

To reduce the hammer in a condensate system the steam in the return must be addressed. Depending on the pressure condensate leaving a trap contains approximately 20 of the heat energy transferred at the boiler in the form of sensible heat. It is possible for a steam trap to discharge overhead to an elevated return provided that the differential pressure remains positive and appropriate site safety standards are followed. However in a condensate return system steam is usually the inducer.

An effective condensate recovery system collecting the hot condensate from the steam using equipment and returning it to the boiler feed system can pay for itself in a remarkably short period of time. The best method for improving steam system energy efficiency reducing chemical costs and reducing make up water costs is to return the maximum quantity of condensate to the boiler plant. Roth steam condensate pump return stations are supplied with reliable pumps that are designed to handle hotter water and develop higher pressures at lower speeds. Hence hammer in a condensate system is typically steam induced.