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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

System and method for detection of malfunctioning steam traps

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6470819

This patent describes a system for continuous detection of a steam trap for malfunctioning. It comprises: a steam trap having an inlet communicating with a source of steam, and having an outlet for discharge of gases which are noncondensable, and condensate; sensing means for detecting malfunction of the steam trap. The sensing means comprising a pair of thermocouple including a first thermocouple disposed proximate and in temperature measurement relationship to the outlet for measuring the temperature of the outlet and a second thermocouple disposed proximate and in temperature measurement relationship to the inlet for measuring the temperature of the inlet; signal generating means operatively connected to the sensing means for generating a signal indicative of malfunction of the steam trap; and signal indicating means responsive to the generated signal for indicating malfunctioning of the steam trap.

Assignee:
Shell Oil Co., Houston, TX (USA)
Patent Number(s):
US 4945343; A
Application Number:
PPN: US s 7-374377
OSTI ID:
6470819
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English