Systems & measurement

Steam trap monitoring systems are used for diagnostic supervision of drainage points in steam networks to detect live steam leakage, blockage, condensate backup, and temperature deviation. They are applied in central steam distribution systems, steam tracing circuits, manifolds, heat exchangers, and installations with a large installed base of steam traps where periodic manual inspection is not sufficient for documented maintenance.

This category includes online monitoring systems, portable test instruments, and wireless measuring devices such as ARI CONA Control, Gestra VKP, and Gestra ecoBolt. Diagnosis is based on parameters including temperature, discharge behavior, possible steam passage, and trap operating status, so that the data can be used for preventive or condition-based maintenance. The Gestra VKP is intended for mobile periodic inspection, while the ecoBolt supports wireless supervision and online data acquisition for targeted maintenance and steam loss assessment.

System selection depends on steam trap type, access to the installation point, requirement for local or central indication, installation environment, ATEX requirements where applicable, and integration with automation or data logging systems. ARI CONA Control can be used with different steam trap types and manufacturers, installed in vertical or horizontal orientation, and connected via AS-i bus or other communication systems such as Profibus DP.

Available versions include DIN and ANSI execution, pressure rating up to PN40, and BSP, NPT, flanged, socket weld, and butt weld end connections. Listed body and housing materials include 1.0460 and 1.4541. For CONA Control, external test chambers are available in P250GH or 1.4541, with operating pressure up to 32 barg, inlet temperature up to 250 °C, and power supply options of 100–240 V AC or 24 V DC depending on configuration.