Energy Savings with Computerized Steam Trap Maintenance Program

Abstract

This paper describes the efforts made at 3M Company plants to save energy in the steam distribution system by improving the maintenance of steam traps. The results from steam trap surveys for 17 facilities with over 6,400 trap population are presented and performance is evaluated based on steam pressure, application served, type of trap and its manufacturer. The frequency for trap testing is specified for different operating conditions and equipment applications. A steam trap testing procedure is presented that saves maintenance time and improves the steam system efficiency. Computerized steam trap maintenance program is necessary to reduce energy losses. Programs have been setup both internally and by outside consultants. When setup by an outside consultant besides giving the normal data, it provides information to the corporation how each plant is doing. Accumulated data from surveyed plants was used to promote similar programs at other plants. Additional benefits are less equipment downtime, less parts inventory and reduced errors in trap replacement, and time saving in the plant maintenance department.