Problem Solved!

Jim Krochune recently contacted Ahlstrom Nonwovens in Windsor Locks, CT, a long-time customer for APM, to discuss this year’s steam trap survey. The response?

“We continue to have problems with our condensate return temp. I thought this was going to be solved as part of the last 2 steam trap surveys, and the problem still exists. Figure it out or I’m bringing in another company.”

The threat of losing a long-time customer because they do not feel we are helping solve their problem should create immediate action for APM. Jim scheduled a Troubleshoot and Michelle assigned David Glastetter to visit the site asap. David’s findings are listed below. He offers excellent detail that informs the folks in the office and sets us up to follow through on the next step.

What’s critical to our long-term success is not only our expertise but our ability to communicate between the field and the office. This level of teamwork and communication is what separates us from others! By identifying the issue, we can generate additional revenue and retain our customers.

Job Note by David Glasstetter, 1/14/21

“Started by checking condensate tank temp, temp was at about 201 degrees. Headed to the north end of the building and checked 3 POP’s, #281101 and #281102 checked ok. #28103 is NIS but found out later they would like that one replaced. Did find a TD52 that was never surveyed #281104. Did continue to trace condensate lines and checking temps. We found one line that was running hot, just about 200 degrees. Found 2 other POP’s blowing steam out of the vents. #281129 and #281128. There were 3 more POP’s that need attention,#281132, #281131 are leaking, #281130 is NIS but again they would like that one replaced as well. Some other issues found, there is a HEX unit using flash steam to heat that has no trap on it. I did call John and asked his opinion on putting a trap on it, he agreed. Also, at this HEX we opened the test port, and it is blowing steam into the condensate line. The last thing we found is that there is a liquid mover tank that uses 75psi steam to push condensate by a pneumatic valve, found the airline to the control unit was broken. We fixed that line but still no movement in the valve. We did open the drain on this tank and got nothing but steam out of it. We had an electrician check for powers at the control unit and it seems like the level sensor is not working. Bruce is going to address that issue himself. All of the items I found today feed into one condensate line that goes directly to the condensate tank. Also, Bruce would like to replace complete POP’s rather than repair them. He would also like to get this project going asap. Any questions let me know.”