With Float-controlled Pilot Patents (Class 236/55)
  • Patent number: 4623091
    Abstract: This invention pertains to a float and thermostatic steam trap with an improved mechanism less subject to failure than previous designs. In this design the venting and trapping functions are served by the same valve and a thermostatic actuator acts on the float or float linkage when temperature is below a predetermined value. In normal operation the float controls the discharge of condensate and the thermostatic actuator is out of contact with the float assembly and therefore is free to move. When the temperature within the trap housing drops below the predetermined value, the thermostatic actuator engages the float assembly, forces the valve opening and raises the float above the condensate level. This allows the removal of condensate and of the noncondensible gasses from the trap. This design eliminates the stressing of the thermostatic actuator by static or vibration loads at high temperatures and thereby reduces the fatigue failure of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1986
    Inventor: Marcel Stein