Ball Float Steam Trap

Ball Float Steam Trap operates automatically using a precision mechanical leverage and float ball mechanism to continuously discharge condensate as fast as it forms. A hollow, spherical stainless steel float is connected via a pivot lever to a discharge valve seat inside the main body. As condensate flows into the trap, rising liquid levels buoyant the float ball upwards, modulating the valve orifice open to continuously vent liquid into the return line.

Because the discharge orifice remains submerged beneath the liquid level at all times, a permanent liquid seal is formed that prevents live steam from escaping. Additionally, an integrated thermostatic air vent automatically purges air and non-condensable gases during startup, preventing air-binding and allowing hot steam to reach heat transfer surfaces without delay. Once the trap warms up, the air vent closes tight, leaving the mechanical float to maintain continuous, smooth condensate drainage without steam loss.

Practical Advantages in the Field

• Continuous & Modulating Discharge: Unlike intermittent pulse-type traps, the ball float mechanism modulates continuously to discharge condensate at steam temperature without thermal backing-up.

• Maximum Heat Transfer Efficiency: Drains condensate instantly upon formation, keeping process heat exchangers completely free of waterlogging for maximum thermal performance.

• Immunity to Pressure & Load Variations: Responds instantly to fluctuating steam loads and pressure variations without losing its water seal or operational stability.

• Built-in Thermostatic Air Venting: Automatically vents large volumes of air and non-condensable gases during cold system startup to eliminate air-binding and reduce heat-up times.

• Zero Live Steam Loss: The main discharge valve seat stays continuously submerged below the condensate water level, guaranteeing a tight hydraulic seal against live steam leakage.

Brands We Provide

• GCC VALVES

• SVR GLOBAL

• FLOWORK

• EMERSON

• KITZ CORPORATION

Typical Deployments

• Shell-and-tube heat exchangers, plate heat exchangers, and reboilers

• Steam jacketed kettles, cooking vessels, and autoclaves

• Air heating coils, unit heaters, and HVAC steam batteries

• Industrial drying cylinders, vulcanizing presses, and rotary drum dryers

• Distillation columns, evaporators, and process vessel heating loops

Our Ball Float Steam Traps at AustraliaValves.com are manufactured and tested in accordance with international safety standards, complete with flexible horizontal or vertical piping orientation options across Australia.

For sizing calculations, condensate load evaluations, or to request a quote, please contact us.