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Condensate Return Station Courtesy Roth Pump Company |
If steam is not consumed directly by the process as a component input, it is steam's heat of vaporization that is utilized by the operation. Efficient use of steam as a heating medium results in the conversion of vapor to liquid (water). Returning the liquid condensate back to the boiler for conversion to vapor again is a necessary step in the efficient operation of a closed loop system.
Condensate return systems are certainly not high technology, but keep in mind that a steam system may be the lifeblood of not just one, but many operations throughout a plant. Avoiding downtime in the steam system, of which the condensate return pump is an integral part, ranks highly on the list of "Important Things for Plant Operations". Condensate return is critical. What are some strong attributes of a good and reliable condensate return pump?
Condensate return systems are certainly not high technology, but keep in mind that a steam system may be the lifeblood of not just one, but many operations throughout a plant. Avoiding downtime in the steam system, of which the condensate return pump is an integral part, ranks highly on the list of "Important Things for Plant Operations". Condensate return is critical. What are some strong attributes of a good and reliable condensate return pump?
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Condensate Return Station with Dual Pumps Courtesy Roth Pump Company |
- Minimize or eliminate cavitation at high temperatures. Cavitation will impede pump performance and cause premature deterioration of pump and drive components.
- Ability to handle a high load during cold starts through motor and pump design.
- Design and configuration to handle high temperatures without deterioration of pump and motor.
- Develop higher pressure at lower motor speeds for extended service life.
- Avoidance of mechanical seals below water line.
- Consider a single unit with dual pumps for handling high loads and extending service life.
Specifying and installing a solidly designed and built condensate return pump may require an investment of your time and consideration. The return on that investment will be reduced maintenance, repair, and downtime. Talk to a product specialist about your steam system. Combining your intimate operational knowledge and experience with their deep product knowledge and experience with many installations will yield a good solution.