Contents
Overview
Other IR Applications
Sample IR Images:
- Steam Trap Survey
- Steam Line Insulation
- Steam Trap Comparison
- Functioning Recovery Valve
- Passing Recovery Valve
- Functioning Recovery Valves
Overview
Steam systems contain a lot of thermal energy by their very nature. The different thermal properties of water vapour vs. steam, of good insulation vs. poor insulation, and other variances allow the thermographer to quickly identify problem areas.
1. Steam Trap Survey
Steam traps hold back water vapour and allow steam to pass through them. The effects of a defective steam trap go beyond the huge financial loss incurred from inefficient steam generation. A failure can increase boiler operating rates, reduce boiler life, impact the environment, raise fuel costs, and influence overall plant integrity.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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2. Steam Line Insulation
This is a steam line with poorly installed insulation. This image demonstrates two things. First, even shiny cladding will provide a thermal signature of the problem if the temperature rise and differences are adequate and the insulation is poor. Second, energy is lost from steam systems by improperly operating steam traps, insulation, etc. and this wasted energy results in increased operating costs. Maximizing the thermal efficiency of a steam system in a large generation facility will pay for an infrared program many times over.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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3. Steam Trap Comparison
The inset image shows a passing steam trap in comparison with the two good steam traps in the larger image. Improperly operating steam traps rob steam system efficiency and increase the erosion in piping and equipment.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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4. Functioning Recovery Valve
This image shows a recovery valve that is properly seated and not passing. The temperature change across the two sides of the valve in this large steam line is very obvious.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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5. Passing Recovery Valve
This image shows a recovery valve that is passing. The lack of significant temperature change across the two sides of the valve in this large steam line is very obvious.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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6. Functioning Recovery Valves
This image shows two recovery valves that are properly seated and not passing. The temperature changes across the valves in this large steam line are very obvious.
You may left-click on the picture for an expanded view.
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