DRIP, TRACING, PROCESS: IB Series inverted bucket steam traps are used in drip applications to remove condensate from steam mains and steam supply lines. For drip applications, the smaller sized units have adequate capacity. The discharge orifice of the inverted bucket trap is mounted at the top of the trap body, which makes them less susceptible to failure from dirt and debris when compared to other trap types. Since Inverted Bucket traps have poor air-handling capability, they are normally not recommended for most process applications. However, they can be used on certain process applications such as unit heaters and laundry equipment,where discharging air during system start-up is not a critical factor. F&T traps are the preferred choice for systems where air must be quickly discharged.
• Waterhammer resistant
• Suitable for superheated steam (use internal check valve option to eliminate loss of prime)
• In-line repairability is simplified by having all internals attached to the cover
• Valve & seat are located at the top of the trap body making them less prone to clogging from debris and pipe scale
• All stainless steel internals with hardened valve & seat
When the trap is filled with condensate, the inverted bucket inside the steam trap loses its buoyancy and rests on the bottom of the trap. This pulls the disc off the seat allowing condensate to be discharged through the seat orifice located at the top of the trap. When steam enters, it fills the inverted bucket causing the bucket to float to the surface which closes the discharge valve, containing the steam in
the system. Eventually, the steam is bled off through a small hole in the top of the bucket causing it to sink, which repeats the cycle.
Selection / Sizing / Capacities
Select a model with a higher maximum operating pressure (PMO) that meet or exceed the maximum steam pressure or the trap may not open. For example, the IB-1031-13-N-150 has a Max PMO of 150 PSI, will handle capacity up to 570 lbs/hr at Maximum. Choose
a model that will handle the capacity requirement based on the
differential pressure across the trap. Reference capacity charts.
Example:
Application: 100 lbs/hr at 75 PSIG working pressure and 2 PSI differential pressure
Size/Model: IB1031, 80 PSIG, Specify pipe size (1/2”, 3/4”), or IB1041, 80 PSIG, Specify pipe size (3/4”, 1”)
Strainer and Blowdown valve connection available on 1041, 1042, 1044 & 1038S. We also have 3 accessories for this trap are Thermic vent to improve air handling capability. Internal check valve for superheated or condensate backflow applications.
How to Order Accessories:
Check Valve (suffix CV) Built-in Inlet Check Valve is recommended when used on Superheated Steam
Example: IB1031-12-N-125-CV
Thermic Vent (suffix TV) A Thermic Vent is recommended when using a Bucket Trap on any type of process application or where the removal of air from the system is critical.
Example: IB1031-12-N-125-TV
Thermic Vent & Check Valve (suffix TCV) For combination of Check Valve & Thermic Vent
Example: IB1031-12-N-125-TCV
Installation and Maintenance Trap must be installed in upright position to function properly. All working components can be replaced with the trap body remaining in-line. With superheated steam, a check valve should be installed at inlet or trap may lose prime. A replacement kit containing the lever and seat assembly is a more economical option than replacing the entire steam trap. Also available are replacement screens, gaskets and buckets. When ordering replacement lever and seat assemblies, specify model and operating pressure. See Replacement Parts and Kits Section for exact cross-reference to Armstrong PCA (Pressure Change Assembly) kits.