Steam leak through a steam trap estimator
Use to estimate the cost of steam traps leaking (failed open)
| Saturated steam pressure upstream of the steam trap | ||
| 1/2" / 15mm failed steam traps quantity | (number of steam traps) | |
| 3/4" / 20mm failed steam traps quantity | (number of steam traps) | |
| 1" / 25mm failed steam traps quantity | (number of steam traps) | |
| 1 1/2" / 40mm failed steam traps quantity | (number of steam traps) | |
| 2" / 50mm failed steam traps quantity | (number of steam traps) | |
| Cost of steam | ||
| Hours of operation per year | hrs | |
| Estimated steam leak flow | ||
|---|---|---|
| Estimated cost per annum if steam traps not fixed/replaced | £ |
Notes
Only input number of leaking/failed open steam traps into table above, not the total number of steam traps. Assume approximately 5-10% of mechanical steam traps in use will fail per annum
Steam traps that are leaking should always be fixed as soon as is possible, as they are a possible health and safety risk, as well as wasting money
The above estimator is based on the condensate being returned to the boiler hotwell, and that it is a vented condensate return system. Savings will be different from this estimator if condensate is discharged to grade or a pressurised return system is in
Estimates are based on average orifice sizes in the steam traps and may vary between manufacturers and types of steam traps. Also estimates based on mechanical type steam traps.
Estimated steam leak flow is based on only part of the orifice inside the steam trap being open/exposed, even through the steam trap is failed open passing live steam. This diversity may vary in real life scenarios
Figures calculated are of a simple theoretical nature and other variables may need to be considered depending on application
Estimates based on saturated steam