5 Common Mistakes in Steam Trap Installation That Factories Often Encounter

In industrial steam systems, steam traps play a crucial role in discharging condensate and air while retaining live steam to optimize system efficiency. However, many factories still face steam loss, energy waste, or equipment damage due to improper steam trap installation. Below are the 5 most common mistakes that engineers and plant operators should avoid:

1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Steam Trap for the Application

Many factories select steam traps based on habit or reference from other systems without considering specific factors such as condensate load, pressure, temperature, and the type of steam equipment (e.g., heating, drying, heat exchangers).

Real-life example:
Using a float trap for a main steam line is inappropriate because float traps are not suitable for large condensate loads or high-pressure systems.

Recommendation:
Conduct a thorough system survey and select the correct type of trap: float, thermodynamic, inverted bucket, disc, etc., depending on the application.

2. Installing Steam Traps in the Wrong Direction or Position

Although steam traps have flow direction markings, many factories install them backward or in unsuitable locations, causing the trap to malfunction or fail prematurely.

Signs to watch for:
 • Trap fails to discharge condensate, water accumulates in the system, abnormal pressure differences.

Recommendation:
 • Install traps in the correct flow direction and at the correct height.
 • Position the trap at the lowest point where condensate collects.

3. Omitting Essential Accessories Such as Strainers and Bypass Valves

To cut costs, some factories skip installing strainers, bypass valves, or isolation valves.

Consequences:
 • Dirt and debris clog the trap, preventing condensate discharge and reducing trap lifespan.
 • Maintenance becomes difficult, requiring a system shutdown to replace the trap.

Recommendation:
 • Always install a strainer before the trap.
 • Include bypass and isolation valves for easier inspection and replacement.

4. Installing Too Few Traps or Combining Multiple Drain Points into One Trap

Some technicians combine multiple condensate discharge points into one trap to save costs, overloading the trap and preventing it from handling condensate properly.

Consequences:
 • Water accumulation in equipment, causing rust, corrosion, or even water hammer risks.

Recommendation:
 • Install enough traps at the correct locations throughout the system.
 • Avoid combining multiple condensate points into one trap unless properly calculated.

5. Failing to Conduct Regular Steam Trap Inspections and Replacements

Over time, steam traps wear out, become stuck, or leak. Without regular inspections, live steam may leak unnoticed, leading to significant energy loss.

Estimated losses:
 • One failed trap can waste 10–50 kg of steam per hour, equivalent to hundreds of millions of VND per year.

Recommendation:
 • Set up a regular steam trap inspection schedule (every 3–6 months).
 • Use inspection tools such as ultrasonic devices or temperature sensors.
 • Replace faulty traps promptly to save energy.

Conclusion

Steam traps may be small components, but they play a vital role in a factory’s steam system. Improper installation or neglecting maintenance can lead to considerable energy costs and safety issues.

If your factory needs free consultation on steam trap installation or inspection, feel free to contact us – Phuc Minh Engineering Company. We are ready to conduct on-site surveys and provide optimal solutions for your steam system.

Contact Information: Mr. Vinh - 0902800728
Email: vinh@pm-e.vn