Accumulator Purpose

Steam users across facility generate condensate at varying rates. Individual return lines create flow surges. Accumulator collects condensate from all sources buffering flow variations before pumps transfer to deaerator or feedwater system.

Vessel Configuration

Horizontal or vertical atmospheric or low-pressure tank with multiple condensate inlets from steam trap returns, vent to atmosphere releasing flash steam, liquid collection zone, outlet to condensate pumps, overflow protection, level instrumentation controlling pump operation.

Operating Conditions

Atmospheric pressure allows gravity drainage from steam traps. Temperature typically 80-100C from condensate cooling during return. Venting releases flash steam formed when high-pressure condensate drops to atmospheric. Open system design prevents pressure buildup.

Flash Steam Recovery

High-pressure condensate flashes when entering atmospheric accumulator. Flash steam at low pressure vents to atmosphere or routes to low-pressure steam header for recovery. Proper venting prevents pressurization while optional recovery improves efficiency.

Material Selection

Carbon steel construction suitable for hot condensate and atmospheric service. Design accommodates thermal cycling during operation. Vent system sized for maximum flash steam generation. Proper drainage prevents water hammer.

Level Control

Level transmitter controls condensate transfer pumps maintaining inventory. High level activates pumps sending condensate to deaerator. Low level stops pumps preventing cavitation. Redundant level switches provide backup control and alarms.

Multiple Inlet Management

Separate connections for different pressure condensate returns. High-pressure returns may require individual flash tanks before accumulator. Piping design prevents backflow between systems. Proper arrangement handles varying condensate qualities.

Applications

Power plant condensate collection, industrial boiler feedwater systems, district heating condensate return, process plant steam system condensate recovery, and any facility with distributed steam use requiring centralized collection.

Pump Interface

Provides adequate suction head for condensate transfer pumps. Level ensures continuous liquid supply without gas entrainment. Pump sizing matches maximum return rate plus surge capacity. Multiple pumps provide redundancy.

Water Quality

Condensate quality depends on steam system contamination. Clean condensate returns directly to feedwater. Contaminated condensate requires polishing or disposal. Accumulator design allows quality monitoring before reuse.

Overflow Protection

Overflow connection prevents tank overfilling during pump failures or high return rates. Routes excess to drain or separate collection. High-level alarms warn operators before overflow occurs.

Performance Benefits

Balances varying condensate return rates. Provides surge capacity protecting pumps. Enables condensate recovery reducing boiler makeup. Releases flash steam safely. Simple proven condensate management.

Construction Standards

Atmospheric tank per API 650 or low-pressure vessel per ASME Section VIII. Materials for condensate service. Vent sizing for flash steam capacity. Complete documentation with surge calculations.

ERGIL steam condensate accumulator vessels provide reliable collection and surge management optimizing condensate recovery in steam systems.