ENERGY Conservation Corner

Through the university's Energy 2000 program, $750,000 to $1 million is
being invested each year through FY2000 for energy conservation projects on
the UIUC campus. Some of these funds have been used for steam-trap testing
and maintenance.


What are steam traps and why are they important to the energy conservation
effort?

Steam traps help ensure the efficient operation of heating and cooling
systems that serve campus buildings. They act like valves by retaining
steam in the system until it condenses at heating coils, radiators, steam
absorption chillers and various other steam-powered equipment. Traps then
drain the steam condensate away in return lines, to be reused at Abbott
Power Plant.

Approximately 35,000 steam traps operate on campus. Traps that are not
working properly have either become plugged or stuck open, allowing steam
to blow (leak) through the system. Energy is thus wasted, and problems
often result due to excessive water buildup or pressure in the system.

Many problems and costly repair bills have been avoided since the beginning
of a new steam-trap testing program in FY1991. Small, hand-held
sensor/computers are used to quickly and accurately determine if a trap is
operating correctly and efficiently. When faulty traps are discovered,
repairs or replacements are then made resulting in a more efficient use of
energy.

To date, more than 5,000 traps have been identified as faulty and have been
repaired or replaced. The steam trap testing/repair program is estimated to
be saving approximately $450,000 per year.


The "Energy Conservation Corner" is published regularly in Inside Illinois.
If you have a question regarding energy conservation programs or practices
on campus, contact Jeff Buenting at 333-1364 or jdbuenti@illinois.edu.