Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Troubleshooting surface condenser venting systems

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:414840
; ;  [1]
  1. Graham Manufacturing Company, Batavia, NY (United States)
In an ideal situation, the condensing pressure achievable in a steam surface condenser is determined by the exiting cooling water temperature. However, the failure of the venting system to properly remove noncondensible gases from the steam condenser will result in elevated condenser pressures. Information is presented in this paper relative to the most common venting systems available, as well as providing procedures for troubleshooting each type of system. A description is given of the various operating characteristics, along with narrative discussions of field problems and experiences. Simple visual, audible and physical guides to the analysis of venting system problems are discussed. Power plant operating personnel will be able to utilize this information when investigating steam condenser performance problems. A check list is provided which can be used to isolate these performance problems. 4 figs., 3 tabs.
Research Organization:
Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (United States); Stone and Webster Engineering Corp., Boston, MA (United States)
OSTI ID:
414840
Report Number(s):
EPRI-TR--106781; CONF-960857--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English