Inverted Bucket Steam Traps
C190 · C180
Clark Inverted Bucket Steam Traps provide dependable, intermittent condensate discharge for demanding steam systems. A straightforward, rugged mechanical trap that provides reliable service across a wide range of industrial heating, processing, and high-pressure steam applications.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
Density does the work, the water seal keeps it honest
Inverted bucket steam traps use the difference in density between steam and condensate to open and close the discharge valve while maintaining a water seal.
01
Start-up and air removal
During start-up, air and cool condensate enter the trap body. The bucket remains down, holding the discharge valve open so air and condensate can leave the system.
02
Steam entry and valve closure
When steam enters beneath the inverted bucket, buoyancy raises the bucket. The lever mechanism moves the disc toward the seat and closes the discharge valve, helping prevent live steam from escaping.
03
Condensation and reopening
Steam captured beneath the bucket condenses or vents through the bucket opening. As buoyancy decreases, the bucket sinks, the valve reopens, and accumulated condensate is discharged.
04
Repeat cycle
The cycle repeats automatically as steam and condensate conditions change. Clark-Reliance Duo-Step Leverage increases opening force and valve travel, allowing larger discharge orifices and greater condensate capacity without increasing trap size.
Overview
Clark Inverted Bucket Steam Traps provide dependable, intermittent condensate discharge for demanding steam systems. A straightforward, rugged mechanical trap that provides reliable service across a wide range of industrial heating, processing, and high-pressure steam applications.
Product configurations
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C190 Series: Fabricated steel inverted bucket traps.
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C180 Series: Heavier-duty materials, reinforced geometry, and specialized anti-boiling features designed to withstand significantly higher pressures and temperatures up to 1,000 PSIG and 850°F.
Key points of differentiation
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Extreme Capability: Model families cover demanding steam service up to 1,000 PSIG and 850°F
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Optimal Capacity: Two lever fulcrums provide added force to open the valve and extended travel to open larger discharge orifices without increasing trap size.
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Low-Cost Maintenance: Replaceable stainless steel trap components, seats, and discs help extend service life and simplify repairs.
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Longer Service: Fabricated steel or all-stainless-steel configurations support industrial durability and corrosion resistance.
Applications
Clark Inverted Bucket Steam Traps are used where rapid, reliable condensate removal supports heat-transfer efficiency, equipment protection, and steam conservation. Typical applications include:
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Steam mains and distribution lines
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Desuperheaters
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Autoclaves and sterilizers
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Cooking kettles and stills
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Evaporators
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Water heaters and heat-transfer equipment
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Cylinder and drum dryers
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Manufacturing and chemical processing systems
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Food processing equipment
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Power generation facilities
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High-pressure and high-temperature process steam service
These traps are especially valuable when condensate must be removed completely and promptly to reduce water hammer risk, preserve heat-transfer performance, and protect steam-system reliability.
OPERATING ENVELOPE
C190 Series
up to 600 PSIG at 750°F
C180 Series
up to 1,000 PSIG at 850°F
Applicable media
Engineered for saturated steam, high-pressure steam, and high-temperature steam service
VARIABLES
Sizes
Fabricated-steel models ½” – 2”
Body materials
Fabricated carbon steel for C190 and C180 models
Internal materials
Renewable stainless-steel buckets, levers, brackets, seats, discs, and related operating components
Connections
NPT threaded
Socket-weld
Flanged connection
Orientation
Vertical — fabricated-steel
SERVICE FEATURES
Options and model-dependent features include anti-boil tubes, inlet standpipes, center guide tubes, drain ports, and integral strainers.
