| Description
Clark-Reliance Inverted Bucket Steam Trap bodies are fabricated from steel tubing or pipe. Cover materials vary depending on maximum pressure and temperature capabilities. Internal components of all models are stainless steel construction which can be replaced with new Clark Reliance parts to extend trap service life. Model sizes from 1/2 to 2 with NPT pipe thread, socket weld, and flange connections available in many combinations.
Dup-Step Leverage, an exclusive Clark-Reliance feature employing two trap level fulcrums, produces added force to "crack" trap valves and allow the extended travel required to open orifices fully. This allows larger discharge orifices without increasing trap size.
Operation
Bucket traps respond to the difference in density between steam and condensate. The inverted bucket bucket is attached to the valve head by a lever mechanism and operates to open and close the trap.
On start up the bucket, by its own weight, rests on the trap bottom and the valve is open discharging air and non-condensables. When condensate enters the trap body it creates a water seal around the bottom of the inverted bucket which, since it is filled with air, becomes buoyant, rises, and closes the trap. The trap is now "air-locked" and would remain so but for a small hole in the top of the bucket. The air leaks through the hole and is replaced by condensate; the bucket slowly loses its buoyancy and sinks to the trap bottom opening the valve. Condensate is discharged until steam enters the trap filling the bucket which rises and closes the trap. At this point, the steam slowly leaks through the hole in the bucket, is replaced by condensate causing the bucket to lose its buoyancy, sink, and open the valve permitting the trap to discharge. This cycle repeats itself giving the trap an intermittent or "blast" type discharge.
Bucket Traps have very limited air venting capabilities, and it is recommended that an auxiliary air vent be utilized if any quantity of air is anticipated.
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