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Steam traps

Essential components for steam system efficiency. Removing condensate quickly and completely — without losing live steam — is key to energy savings and plant safety.

Why steam traps matter

A steam trap's job is to discharge condensate and non-condensable gases without letting live steam escape. An efficient trap saves energy, protects downstream equipment, improves steam quality and enhances safety.

Industry estimates suggest 15-25% of installed traps are faulty. A single failed-open trap on a 10 bar line can waste over 25 kg/h of steam, costing €8,000-12,000/year. Roffia supplies Spirax Sarco traps and supports regular maintenance programmes.

Trap types

Mechanical float traps

Continuous condensate discharge with immediate response to load changes. Integral thermostatic air vent. Up to PN 40, DN 15-100. Capacities from 50 to 30,000 kg/h. Ideal for heat exchangers, dryers and autoclaves.

Inverted bucket traps

Robust and reliable, ideal for high-pressure steam and water hammer conditions. Up to PN 63. Capacities from 100 to 10,000 kg/h. Best for main distribution lines and collectors.

Thermodynamic traps

Compact, lightweight with very few moving parts. Characteristic rhythmic "click" during operation. Up to PN 40. Ideal for tracing lines and drain points where simplicity and low cost are priorities.

Thermostatic traps

Balanced pressure and bimetallic types. Discharge condensate when temperature drops below saturation. Excellent for air venting at startup. Adjustable or fixed subcooling from 2°C to 30°C.

Domande frequenti

How often should steam traps be inspected?
Industry best practice recommends at least annual inspection of all steam traps in service, ideally every six months for critical systems. Studies show 15-25% of operating steam traps are faulty. A single failed-open trap on a 10 bar line can waste over 25 kg/h of live steam, costing EUR 8,000-12,000/year.
What is the difference between mechanical and thermodynamic steam traps?
Mechanical traps (float or inverted bucket) provide continuous condensate discharge and are ideal for variable loads and critical applications. Thermodynamic traps are compact, economical with very few moving parts, but have intermittent discharge. For heat exchangers and autoclaves, mechanical traps are preferred; for steam tracing and drain points, thermodynamic traps are the most practical choice.
Which steam trap brands does Roffia distribute?
Roffia is an authorised Spirax Sarco distributor — the world leader in steam management. We supply the complete range: FT14, FT43, FT44 (float), S and SF series (inverted bucket), TD (thermodynamic) and BPT series (thermostatic). Stock availability in Cremona with fast delivery across Northern Italy and internationally.
How to detect a faulty steam trap?
Main methods include: ultrasonic testing (detects steam passing noise), thermographic testing (abnormal downstream temperature), visual inspection of discharge (live steam = fault). A trap stuck closed causes condensate accumulation (water hammer, corrosion); stuck open causes live steam loss (energy waste). Roffia offers technical support for diagnosis.

Steam trap issues?

We offer technical support for diagnosis, selection and replacement. Tell us the pressure, flow rate and application type for a targeted recommendation.