Abstract: The bimetallic plates of the steam trap disclosed each comprise three same-direction active arms next to one another extending transversely to a center line. On the center line two active arms extend in opposite directions to one another and transversely to the other active arms. On the side of the bimetallic plates which curve concavely when deflected there are provided projections as support portions or faces for the active arms. The projections of at least two active arms project beyond those of the other active arms. The projections of the active arms come into effect at different temperatures and with accumulative force. The bimetallic plates therefore have a closing force line closely adapted to the saturated steam curve.

Abstract: Method of testing the functionality of condensate dischargers. Any ultrasonic vibrations present in the condensate discharger are picked up with an ultrasonic vibration sensor and transformed into an electric output signal. The latter is compared in an evaluation unit with stored data. A test result is then formed based on predetermined decision criteria. The test is carried out over a predetermined test duration, within which instantaneous values of the ultrasonic vibrations are picked up at predetermined times and, if need be, smoothed. The test result is based on the instantaneous values.

Abstract: There is provided a thermally controlled valve having a valve seat, a closure valve associated therewith, an expansion capsule containing an evaporation medium which actuates the closure valve by a stroke displaceable wall part, and a snap spring biasing the closure in the opening direction and arranged so that in the closed position of the valve, the spring occupies a position of stroke lying in the range of stroke between the force maximum and the force minimum of its force stroke characteristic.

Abstract: A thermally controlled valve is provided having a valve seat, a closure valve cooperating with the valve seat, a diaphragm capsule, a plate spring, and an abutment supporting the plate spring along its outer edge. The diaphragm capsule includes a rigid wall part and a diaphragm component actuating the closure valve, the wall part and the diaphragm component being joined with each other along their outer edges and forming a reservoir therebetween for an evaporation medium. The plate spring rests against the face side of the diaphragm component which is averted from the wall part of the diaphragm capsule, and the inner edge of the plate spring engages the closure valve so as to act thereon in the opening direction.

Abstract: There is provided a steam trap having a thermal control element arranged on the high-pressure side containing an expanding medium and a shut-off unit closing in the direction of flow. The shut-off unit includes two closure members and two valve seats forming two series-connected, independent sealing units, which are opened or closed one after the other in series fashion by the control element so as to reduce wear of the shut-off unit. The two sealing units are arranged in a single assembly which is coupled to the control element for ease of installation.

Abstract: A thermally-controlled valve for a steam trap and the like, includes a thermally-controlled element including generally plate-like outer and inner wall portions and a generally plate-like, resilient membrane member disposed between and welded at its outer edges to the wall portions. The outer wall portion and the membrane define therebetween a chamber for accommodating an expanding medium and a reciprocably movable locking member is disposed generally between the membrane member and the inner wall portion, and is disposed for cooperative engagement with the valve seat of the steam trap. The membrane member is coupled to the locking member to effect movement of the locking member relative to the valve seat, and is comprised of a plurality of superimposed membrane lamellae, which permits proper functioning of the valve under high operating pressures.