The Kirkbride Center, a prominent institution specializing in healthcare services, underwent renovation of their 50-year-old system, including the replacement of the entire boiler plant and the condensate main running through the facility, totaling roughly ¼ mile of pipe.
Once this new system was up-and-running, engineers at Falasca Mechanical noticed iron particles in the steam condensate system. These iron particles were making their way to the surge tank, resulting in jet-black water quality. Recognizing the need for a reliable solution, Falasca Mechanical, sought recommendations and learned about the Low Pressure Drop (LPD) Mag Y-Strainer through Manufacturer’s Rep, Clapp Associates.
With the LPD Mag Y-Strainer in place, the engineers on site at the Kirkbride Center implemented a regular blow-down process. Over a period of four months, the system was blown down three to four times, daily, without shutting off the pumps. The LPD Mag is the only magnetic strainer solution on the market that can be blown down while in-service.
This maintenance led to a substantial reduction in debris and sludge, resulting in a significant improvement in water clarity. The LPD Mag captured and eliminated harmful metallic particles, ensuring the surge tank is clear and free of debris. Figures 1, 2, 3 &4! prove how bogged down the system was.
After the initial cleaning process, the Kirkbride Center maintained the blow-down process on a regular basis to sustain the improved water quality. There was a brief period where the system was left alone for ten days without being blown-down. During this time, the water quality experienced a slight deterioration.
However, it is important to note that the LPD Mag Y-Strainer’s previous cleaning efforts had significantly improved the system’s condition, and despite the temporary lack of maintenance, the water remained in relatively good condition overall.
The LPD Mag proved to be an effective solution for combating iron particles and maintaining a clean and efficient low-pressure steam condensate system.
