Steam, strainers and equipment protection
Float and thermostatic steam trap
Discharging condensate and non-condensables with minimal steam loss
Specialist selection guide
What should be reviewed before selecting this product?
A float-and-thermostatic trap continuously drains condensate through a float and vents air through a thermostatic element. For variable loads and close temperature control, capacity and back pressure must be calculated correctly.
Technical selection path
- 1
Define minimum, running and start-up loads
- 2
Calculate actual differential pressure
- 3
Review air-venting capacity
- 4
Control flow direction and level installation
- 5
Design bypass and maintenance arrangement
Key strengths
- Continuous condensate discharge
- Good start-up air venting
- Good response to variable load
Selection limitations
- More sensitive to water hammer and freezing
- Level installation is important
- Larger and costlier than disc traps
Typical applications
Where can this option be considered?
- Heat exchangers and coils
- Temperature-controlled equipment
- Variable condensate loads
Reference standards
A standard does not replace the project specification
Common technical questions
Concise answers before enquiry
Why must an F&T trap be level?
Float and lever position depend on gravity, and incorrect orientation can impair capacity and shutoff.
How does back pressure affect it?
Back pressure reduces effective differential pressure and therefore discharge capacity and must be included in sizing.
Steam distribution, heat exchangers and thermal users
Condensate load, pressure, venting, failure mode and installation arrangement
Initial review sheet
Technical attributes to review
Final values must come from project specifications, calculations and manufacturer data. This table defines the information scope.
FamilySteam and condensate equipment
Main groupSteam, strainers and equipment protection
Materials to evaluateCast iron, Carbon steel, Stainless steel
Connections to evaluateThreaded, Flanged, Welded
Typical mediaSaturated steam, Superheated steam, Condensate
Relevant industriesOil and gas, Refining, Petrochemical, Power generation, Water and utilities
Reference standardsASME B16.34 · API 598
Enquiry checklist
Include this information with your request
Steam pressure
Condensate load
Back pressure
Process load type
Discharge method
Energy recovery
Before substitution
A matching name does not guarantee interchangeability
Installation dimensions, pressure rating, wetted materials, sealing design, construction standard, testing and documentation must be checked independently.
Adjacent types
Other options in this family
Final technical approval is required
This page is educational and intended for initial screening. Final selection must be approved against project requirements, actual service conditions and manufacturer documentation.
Send request for review