Re: Steam Trap Bypass Line

sachin.pawar@fluor.com wrote:

> In process of PID updation, Process Dept. deleted the By pass line along
> with block valve.
> I went through search engine & found that there are steam traps designed
> to work 3 in 1 (Trap, Bypass line and stop valve, 3 functions in one unit)
>
> Probably it may be one of reason. I am interested to know more possible
> reasons.

The bypass for a steam trap only exists so that the trap can be replaced in case it malfunctions while the plant is still in operation. I suppose the thinking is that the trap can be isolated and the bypass valve can be cracked open until the trap can be replaced. This will waste steam.

Almost all facilities will have replacement traps in stock, so the real issue is how much steam condensate will build up upstream before the malfunction is noticed or during the time it takes to replace the faulty trap. In my opinion, the bypass is unnecessary but you still need up and downstream block valves for changeout.

I'm no steam system or operations expert though, maybe someone else can correct me or add more info.

Paul Received on Wed Oct 17 22:14:00 2007