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Free FloatInline RepairableThermostatic Air VentMax 22 barg

TLV SJ3FNX / SJ3FVX Free Float Steam Traps

TLV SJ3FNX and SJ3FVX inline repairable free float steam traps with thermostatic air vent (X-element) for heat exchangers and process equipment up to 22 barg.

TLV SJ3FNX / SJ3FVX Free Float Steam Traps

TLV SJ3FNX and SJ3FVX are inline repairable free float steam traps with a thermostatic air vent (X-element). They are suitable for a wide range of applications with small-to-large capacities and pressures up to 22 barg, such as heat exchangers, tank heaters, dryers, and process equipment. The traps discharge condensate continuously and automatically, at a temperature slightly lower than saturation temperature.

Configuration

TLV SJ3FNX / SJ3FVX configuration diagram

No.DescriptionNo.Description
1Body12Screen Holder Gasket
2Cover13Air Vent Screen
3Float14Element Cover Gasket
4Orifice15X-element Guide
5Orifice Gasket16Air Vent Valve Seat
6Screen17Air Vent (X-element)
7Screen Holder18Snap Ring
8Cover Gasket19Air Vent Valve
9Cover Bolt20Spring Clip
10Drain Plug / Orifice Plug21Element Cover
11Plug

Note: Replacement float available. Only parts for SJ3FNX/SJ3FVX are shown.

Specifications

WARNING

Maximum allowable pressure (PMA) and maximum allowable temperature (TMA) are PRESSURE SHELL DESIGN CONDITIONS, NOT OPERATING CONDITIONS.

To avoid malfunctions, product damage, accidents or serious injury, install properly and DO NOT use this product outside the specification range.

Proper Installation

DANGER

NEVER apply direct heat to the float. The float may explode due to increased internal pressure, causing accidents leading to serious injury or damage to property and equipment.

  1. Before installation, be sure to remove all protective seals.
  2. Install the steam trap within the allowable inclination, as shown below. Also make sure that the arrow mark on the body corresponds with the direction of flow.
  3. Before installing the trap, blow out the inlet piping to remove all dirt and oil.
  4. Install the trap in the lowest part of the pipeline or equipment so the condensate flows naturally into the trap by gravity. The inlet pipe should be as short and have as few bends as possible.
  5. Support the pipes properly within 800 mm (2.5 ft) on either side of the trap.
  6. Install a bypass valve to discharge condensate, and inlet and outlet valves to isolate the trap in the event of trap failure or when performing maintenance.
  7. Install a check valve at the trap outlet whenever more than one trap is connected to the condensate collection pipeline.

Horizontal Model (SJ3FNX)

TLV SJ3FNX / SJ3FVX TLV SJ3FNX horizontal installation limits

Vertical Model (SJ3FVX)

TLV SJ3FNX / SJ3FVX TLV SJ3FVX vertical installation limits

Piping Arrangement

RequirementCorrectIncorrect
Install a catchpot with the proper diameter.Diameter is too small.
Make sure the flow of condensate is not obstructed.Diameter is too small and inlet protrudes into pipe.
To prevent rust and scale from flowing into the trap, connect the inlet pipe 25 - 50 mm (1 - 2 in) above the base of the T-pipe.Rust and scale flow into the trap with the condensate.
When installing on the blind end, make sure nothing obstructs the flow of condensate.Condensate collects in the pipe.

Inspection and Maintenance

Operational inspections should be performed at least twice per year, or as called for by trap operating conditions. Steam trap failure may result in temperature drop in the equipment, poor product quality or losses due to steam leakage.

Parts Inspection Procedure

PartInspection Item
Body, CoverCheck inside for damage, dirt, grease, oil film, rust or scale
GasketsCheck for warping or damage
X-elementCheck for damage
ScreenCheck for clogging, corrosion or damage
FloatCheck for deformation, damage, oil film or water inside
Air Vent Valve Seat, OrificeCheck for rust, scale, oil film, wear or damage

Operational Check

A visual inspection can be carried out to aid in determining the necessity for immediate maintenance or repair, if the trap is open to atmosphere. If the trap does not discharge to atmosphere, use diagnostic equipment.

  • Normal: Condensate is discharged continuously with flash steam and the sound of flow can be heard.
  • Blocked: No condensate is discharged. The trap is quiet and makes no noise, and the surface temperature of the trap is low.
  • Blowing: Live steam continually flows from the outlet and there is a continuous metallic sound.
  • Steam Leakage: Live steam is discharged through the trap outlet together with the condensate and there is a high-pitched sound.

Troubleshooting

ProblemCauseRemedy
No condensate is discharged or discharge is poorFloat is damaged or filled with condensateReplace the float
Orifice, screen or piping is clogged with rust or scaleClean
Steam-locking has occurredBlowdown through the bypass or close the trap inlet valve and allow the trap to cool
X-element is damagedReplace the X-element
Trap operating pressure exceeds maximum specifiedCompare specifications and actual conditions
Steam is discharged or leaks from trap outletRust and scale accumulated around orifice or under floatClean
Orifice is damagedReplace the orifice
Float is deformed or coated with scaleClean or replace the float
Trap is installed above maximum allowable inclinationCorrect the installation
Vibration of trap occursLengthen inlet piping, fasten securely
X-element is damaged or cloggedClean or replace the X-element