Float Operated Steam Traps

Designed for

Float operated traps are designed for applications requiring continuous condensate removal under varying process loads. Unlike intermittent-discharge trap technologies, float traps respond directly to liquid level changes, making them ideal for equipment that experiences fluctuating condensate volumes, superheated steam operation, light-load conditions, or continuous drainage requirements.

These traps are particularly effective on heat transfer equipment, process vessels, liquid-level control applications, and systems where condensate accumulation can reduce efficiency, create water hammer, or damage equipment.

Product configurations

• 542 Series Float Traps. Cost-effective, cast-iron float trap rated to 250 PSI.

• 245 Series Vent Traps. Inverted, cast-iron float trap to vent air rated to 250 PSI.

• 640 Series Float Traps. Fabricated steel float traps with stainless steel internals.

• 740 Series Float Traps. Fabricated steel float traps with optional flanged connections for higher-capacity industrial applications.

• Enduratrap SVGS Series. All-stainless-steel float trap/drainer models with renewable internals and corrosion-resistant construction. Available in 1/2″ and 3/4″ vertical configurations for pressures up to 300 PSI. This is the model shown in 3D above.

Key points of differentiation

• Higher capacity. Provides greater valve travel and discharge capacity than conventional float trap designs.

• Continuous drainage. Maintains uninterrupted condensate removal during varying load conditions.

• Longer service life. Stainless steel floats, levers, seats, and discs resist wear and corrosion.

• Reliable performance. Float-operated mechanism responds directly to changing liquid levels.

• Lower maintenance. Renewable internal components simplify repairs and reduce replacement costs.

• Optimized capacity. Delivers high condensate capacity without oversized trap bodies.

• Corrosion resistance. Enduratrap models feature all-stainless-steel construction for demanding environments.

Applications

Clark-Reliance Float Operated Steam Traps are commonly used where continuous condensate drainage improves process reliability and thermal performance, including:

• Shell-and-tube heat exchangers

• Process heaters

• Steam jackets

• Reboilers

• Unit heaters

• Water heaters

• Liquid level control systems

• Steam distribution equipment

• Superheated steam systems

• Chemical processing plants

• Food and beverage facilities

• Pulp and paper mills

• Power generation facilities

• Gas and air handling systems

Float traps are especially valuable in applications with highly variable condensate loads or where condensate backup can reduce production efficiency and equipment performance.

Principle of operation

Clark-Reliance Float Operated Steam Traps use liquid level changes to continuously regulate condensate or air vent discharge.

1. Condensate entry. Condensate enters the trap body and begins to accumulate around the float.

2. Float response. As liquid level rises, buoyancy causes the float to lift. Through the lever mechanism, the float movement opens the discharge valve.

3. Continuous discharge. System pressure forces condensate through the valve opening, allowing condensate to drain continuously as it enters the trap.

4. Automatic closure. As the condensate level falls, buoyancy decreases and the float lowers. The operating mechanism progressively closes the discharge valve to prevent unnecessary fluid loss.

5. Dynamic operation. The cycle continuously adjusts to changing condensate loads. Because the valve position corresponds directly to liquid level, float traps provide smooth, responsive drainage across a broad operating range without sacrificing efficiency during light-load or heavy-load conditions.