Flowserve VPK10 - Manual (Page 9)

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Before carrying out steam trap tests ajust the measuring sensitivity of the VKP 10 by
using the knob . The highest sensitivity is obtained when the knob is set to “10”.
Note that different steam trap types produce – under identical conditions and with
same loss of steam – different sound levels. For GESTRA steam traps type BK we
recommend the knob setting “8”, and for steam traps type MK the knob setting “7”.
Press the probe tip gently onto the trap surface. When testing traps of the same type
make sure you always apply the probe at the same point of the trap body in order to
be able to compare the results more easily and to discover changes when repeating
the tests.
Steam traps operating continuously and discharging up to about 30 kg/hr (66 lb/hr) of
condensate from steam pressures lower than 20 bar (290 psi) will cause no or only a
slight deflection of the indicating meter. Any steam loss is indicated by a proportional
meter deflection. The relation between steam loss and meter deflection depends on
the steam trap type and the used measuring point on the trap surface. Larger
condensate flowrates and higher service pressures result in louder flow-generated
noises, making it necessary to reduce the sensitivity setting. To obtain meaningful
readings when using the VKP 10, log and use installation-specific survey data and
empirical test values.
In practice an exact quantification of the steam loss is usually only of minor
importance. Normally an approximate value that allows the detection of steam loss
through steam traps at a tolerable effort will suffice.
When checking the steam traps set the knob to “7” or “8”. A continuous indication
between 4 and 5 on the meter scale indicates that the trap requires maintenance or
replacement. Meter deflections between 4 and 5 indicate steam losses of 1 kg/hr up to
4 kg/hr.
Steam trap testing
Operation
When testing conventional steam trap bodies apply the probe at right angles
to the cover of the trap.
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