It is important to note that steam trap inspection services require specialized knowledge and expertise. At Technomax, trained inspectors with experience in steam systems and trap operation are typically perform these services. We are well-versed in the various types of steam traps, their operating principles, and common issues that can arise. Additionally, we have the necessary equipment and tools to conduct accurate inspections and provide informed recommendations.

Regular steam trap inspection services provide several benefits to industrial and commercial facilities. These include,

1. Energy savings: Faulty or failed steam traps can result in significant energy losses. By identifying and repairing such traps, energy waste is minimized, leading to reduced operational costs and improved energy efficiency.
2. Equipment protection: Properly functioning steam traps help prevent condensate accumulation in steam lines and equipment. This protects sensitive components from damage caused by water hammer, corrosion, or reduced heat transfer efficiency.
3. System reliability: Reliable steam traps ensure the continuous and efficient operation of steam systems, reducing the risk of process disruptions, production downtime, and costly repairs.
4. Environmental sustainability: Steam trap inspection services contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with steam generation.

Hand-held airborne and structure-borne ultrasonic devices detect and receive high-frequency sound waves generated due to various reasons, including friction (caused by non-lubricated bearing), ionisation, and turbulence (caused by a pressurized air leak or a failed steam trap). Since these high-frequency sounds are outside the typical human hearing range, they are not audible to us.

The ultrasonic testing instrument can receive these high-frequency sounds and convert them into an audible sound that the inspector can hear through his headset. The sound is then quantified in decibels (dB) on the instrument’s display screen and can also be displayed as a spectrum in the Fast Fourier Transfer (FFT) or Time Wave Form, depending on the device.

Every inspector begins by using a simple spot radiometer to take temperature data. The temperature will tell the inspector whether steam is entering the trap or not, but it can also estimate steam pressure.

If the steam trap is cold, the inspector should double-check that the valves are open and that the trap has not been removed from use. If the steam trap temperature is high, the inspector should note the input and exit temperatures before doing an ultrasonic test.

SONOTEC’s SteamExpert is a one-of-a-kind ultrasonic steam trap examination instrument offered by Technomax. SONOTEC provides its customer’s solutions that are tailored and compactable with their ultrasonic preventative maintenance requirement. Thus, the SteamExpert app was developed to quickly and affordably test Steam traps of various types and brands.

The software is for use with the SONAPHONE digital ultrasonic testing instrument and the BS20 ultrasonic and temperature sensor (Broadband Structure-Borne Sound and Temperature Sensor), which is used to detect and categorise leaks in compressed air, gas, and vacuum systems and save money on energy.

The SONAPHONE performs all the testing processes and provides us with all necessary information regarding the condition of the tested steam traps. These tests can be scheduled in sections using the DataSuite software, and the results can be thoroughly studied and reviewed. The ultrasonic test results can be stored, analysed, and managed using the SONAPHONE DataSuite.