Method and apparatus for managing steam systems
US4705212A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 1983 |
| Grant date | Nov 10, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 27, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/3003
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steam system management method and apparatus includes a condensate collection reservoir with a pilot operated, pressure actuated dump valve that has a quick, snap action fully open/fully closed mode of operation. The pilot operation of the dump valve is actuated by a very low voltage solenoid actuator powered by a thermal-electric generator which thermionically converts heat from the steam system directly to electricity. Condensate dumps are controlled by liquid level sensing switches positioned near the top and bottom of the reservoir and electrically connected to a relay logic that turns the solenoid on and off. Temperature sensors positioned in the steam system and adjacent the thermal-electric generator are utilized in combination with the thermal electric generator and a microprocessor to monitor the air content in the steam system and to open the dump valve to purge excess air from the steam system. A voltage converter and voltage regulator are provided to convert very low voltage output from the thermal-electric generator to a higher voltage necessary to operate the microprocessor, and management information output displays are provided to indicate valve status, modes of o…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.