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Worldwide
DVD/Video Synopsis
What Is Steam?
Time: 15:07
The purpose of "What is Steam?" is to clarify the basic science of steam…to explain the fundamental concepts of steam behavior. It is intended as the basic primer of Armstrong’s videotape library of training programs on steam system diagnosis and maintenance…a "Steam 101" short course on the basic principles of steam.
Operations and maintenance personnel, responsible for ensuring the efficiency of steam systems, must determine the causes and remedies of malfunctions and problems. Armstrong offers training materials, including numerous videotapes, on a wide variety of subjects. A complete understanding of the principles and concepts of troubleshooting and correction laid out in these materials requires a knowledge of what steam is, and how it acts. This program is designed to provide that basic information, and to serve as a review.
"What is Steam?" is simple, practical and entertaining. Using both live action and animation, the program defines the terms used before going on to illustrate the concepts of steam behavior. Billiard balls, spattering grease, water boiling in a paper cup, coffee percolating, and other common, everyday illustrations are used to demonstrate such concepts as latent and sensible heat, heat transfer, the heat of vaporization, and the effects of pressure, condensate and boiler by-products.
"What is Steam?" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience. Contact your representative today.
Let's Talk Steam Traps Update
Time: 32:02
"Let’s Talk Steam Traps Update" uses the latest animation techniques to help viewers see and understand the three types of operating principles: mechanical, thermostatic and thermodynamic. In addition, the tape helps steam trap users understand the internal operation of inverted bucket steam traps, differential condensate controllers, float and thermostatic, thermostatic and disc traps.
The second part of this 32-minute videotape discusses 10 steam system operating conditions that must be considered in evaluating steam trap performance. The five types of traps are then rated on how they respond to these different operating conditions.
Designed to be used in conjunction with Armstrong’s 48-page "Steam Conservation Guidelines for Condensate Drainage," the new videotape provides educational insights into steam systems and how to make them more productive.
Armstrong offers "Let’s Talk Steam Traps Update" in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience. Contact your representative today.
The Anatomy of the I.B.
Time: 15:00
Pick up a shiny new stainless steel inverted bucket steam trap. Look at it. Then try to show or tell someone how it works.
You can’t open an operating trap, you can’t see inside, and even if you could, you could not see steam…it’s a gas.
The video cassette program produced by Armstrong is titled, "The Anatomy of the I.B." This 15-minute, full-color tape utilizes the latest production techniques to look inside the inverted bucket steam trap. The videotape uses both cell animation and an operating glass-bodied model of an inverted bucket steam trap to show its components and observe its performance.
The two techniques complement each other, and the net result of more than 800 hours in production is a top-quality, effective training aid that "walks" the viewer through the operation of the inverted bucket steam trap.
"The Anatomy of the I.B." is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience. Contact your Armstrong representative today.
The Air In The Steam
Time: 11:45
How much of a problem is a "little air" in a steam system? Does it warrant taking the measures necessary to vent the air?
Industrial steam systems have the potential for conserving or wasting great amounts of heat energy. Increases in fuel costs have resulted in widespread conservation programs that have produced remarkable results.
However, the effects of air in any steam system are often underestimated or completely overlooked. This program describes the effects of air in steam from a conservation standpoint, and suggests ways to improve steam system efficiency.
"The Air in the Steam" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience.
The Armstrong Differential Condensate Controller
Time: 18:36
To the paper, textile and boxboard industries, proper condensate drainage from steam-heated cylinder dryers is necessary in order to optimize production and conserve heat energy.
"The Armstrong Differential Condensate Controller" is an 18-1/2-minute videotape that discusses this issue and proposes a means of achieving the highest efficiency from cylinder dryers.
This program asserts that the rate of heat transfer from the inside (steam chamber) of the cylinder to the outside (drying surface) depends upon effective removal of condensate and non-condensable gases from the steam chamber. The tape points out the difficulties presented by the size of the space, the syphon drainage method and the blow-through method of condensate removal.
The Armstrong Differential Condensate Controller, the tape points out, combines features of both methods and overcomes the drawbacks of both. The result is efficient removal of condensate and air, minimum steam loss, and higher and more uniform temperatures across the surface. Additional benefits are also outlined.
"The Armstrong Differential Condensate Controller" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience.
The Armstrong
Posi-Pressure Controller
Time: 15:50
"The Armstrong Posi-Pressure Controller" explains the reasons for and benefits of the Armstrong-designed steam coil drainage system, and describes its installation and operation. This 16-minute color videotape uses a combination of video animation, footage from working installations, and demonstration systems constructed with glass piping. You will observe operation of face and bypass systems, integral face and bypass systems, modulated pressure systems and the Posi-Pressure System as they go through a typical heating day. As a result, you become aware of conditions inside various systems.
Since the same design parameters and ambient conditions are applied to all four drainage concepts, you can directly compare and contrast the systems. The tape also characterizes the operational and preventive maintenance needs of the various designs. Finally, since the most destructive forces in any coil system are brought on by freezing, water hammer and corrosion, the "Armstrong Posi-Pressure Controller" tape examines each system to see how these problems can be avoided.
Whether you are installing a new system or trying to solve a specific problem with an existing system, this tape can help you decide which is best for your application.
"The Armstrong Posi-Pressure Controller" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience.
...It's The Humidity and Let's Talk Humidifiers
Time: Part One: 24:58
Part Two: 20:57
Establishing and maintaining proper levels of relative humidity are more important than most of us know. Computers in business are threatened by the shock of electrostatic discharge. Wood, paper and fabrics (hygroscopic materials) are subject to the damaging effects of drying. Workers are also affected; comfort and health can be influenced by both low and high humidity.
"…It’s the Humidity" is a video documentary covering the essentials of humidity and outlining the primary reasons for humidity control. What is humidity? Relative humidity? What is dew point? Enthalpy? How does evaporation affect comfort? How does humidity conserve energy? All of these questions are answered in practical and entertaining demonstrations.
Expert testimony from the fields of furniture manufacturing, hospitals, computer operation, archive conservation, architecture and industrial psychology outlines the importance of humidification and some of the dangers of ignoring humidity control.
"Let’s Talk Humidifiers," part two in the series, is a look at the four basic methods of large-scale humidification. Through animation, the tape shows the operation of evaporative pan, wetted element, water spray and steam humidifiers, and rates their ability to meet efficiency, maintenance, controllability, sanitation and cost requirements.
Having demonstrated the superiority of humidifying with dry steam, the tape goes on to animated descriptions of the Armstrong 9000 series and EHU series humidifiers. Features and benefits of the two types of devices invented by Armstrong complete the viewers’ understanding of this complex and substantial subject.
Both of these programs are available in DVD and 1/2" VHS format. other related literature.
Guidelines For Freeze Protection
Time: 10:52
Freezing in outdoor steam systems is a costly maintenance and production problem. Certain guidelines can be followed to minimize damage and process-interruption due to freezing. In addition to highlighting these piping and trapping guidelines, Armstrong’s color videotape covers an often-overlooked problem that can prevent total drainage of the system.
Graphics and glass piping illustrate why condensate remains in or upstream of various types of traps after steam systems are shut down. The tape discusses what can be done to get rid of remaining condensate by use of temperature- and pressure-actuated safety drains.
"Guidelines for Freeze Prevention" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format. Armstrong Representatives have copies of this tape and will schedule a showing at your convenience.
Guidelines For Steam System Efficiency
Time: 15:17
This video program presents design fundamentals that can help you get the most out of your steam system. Graphics, animation and footage of actual installations clarify guidelines for the four components of the steam system: the boiler, the distribution piping, the heat exchange equipment and the condensate return. Character-generated subtitles reinforce these often-overlooked fundamentals, which if followed can result in greater system efficiency.
In the United States, nearly half of the fuel consumed by industry is used for the generation of steam. It makes sense to see that this energy is used wisely and efficiently. Low energy, maintenance and operational costs in your system can be achieved by proper design, installation and maintenance.
This 15-minute educational program covers basic considerations in the design, piping and trapping of steam systems. Topics include correct sizing and installation of steam supply and condensate return lines; steam velocities in the system; proper steam trap installation; trap safety factors; the use of air vents, vacuum breakers and safety drains; and how non-condensables affect the performance and service life of heat exchange equipment.
"Guidelines for Steam System Efficiency" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For The Prevention Of Water Hammer
Time: 16:15
This videocassette program explains in detail the phenomenon known as water hammer. It identifies the most likely causes of the water hammer problem and provides solutions that can be implemented to prevent occurrence.
Water hammer is much more than just an annoying banging of pipes. It represents a dangerous and damaging force of water driven by steam or pressure. The tape describes three types of conditions that cause water hammer: hydraulic shock, thermal shock and differential shock. All three of these conditions send shock waves along the piping and water columns in the pipe. Resulting damage caused by water hammer may be evidenced in pipes, fittings, traps, valves, pumps, gauges or any type of heat exchange equipment.
Armstrong has produced this educational tape to help customers more fully understand the nature and severity of the water hammer problem. With a better understanding of the problem, more preventive measures and equipment can be designed into new and existing installations. The results will lower maintenance costs, reduce system downtime and increase personnel safety.
"Guidelines for the Prevention of Water Hammer" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For Unit Heater Efficiency
Time: 9:44
Industry relies on unit heaters to provide a comfortable environment for its workers in cold weather. The heating season is no time for the nuisance and discomfort of unit heater repair or replacement.
This 10-minute video program discusses how correct selection, installation and maintenance of steam-supplied unit heaters ensure longer service life and reduce unnecessary repair and replacement costs.
How do the materials of construction affect service life? What type of steam traps work best? What causes corrosion in unit heaters? These and other pertinent subjects are discussed in this educational video.
"Guidelines for Unit Heater Efficiency" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For Steam/Air Coil System Design
Time: 13:12
The use of steam/air coils to provide heated air comfort control, and for process heating and drying, is widespread. Steam is an efficient and convenient medium for many applications.
In those locations where incoming air may, at times, be below freezing, improperly designed and installed systems can experience coil freezing, water hammer and corrosion. All of these problems are brought on by allowing condensate to accumulate in the coil.
"Guidelines for Steam/Air Coil System Design" explains the major causes of this accumulation and the steps that can be taken to prevent it. The program uses the air-handling system assembled in Armstrong’s Three Rivers demonstration lab to illustrate problems and solutions. Glass piping and glass-bodied traps allow the viewer to see the flow of condensate and to witness adverse effects of improper system design as well as the benefits of corrective measures.
"Guidelines for Steam/Air Coil System Design" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For Steam Trap Repair
Time: 20:41
Every year, hundreds of millions of dollars worth of steam is wasted in the U.S. Much of this loss is at the expense of companies that have made an investment in energy management - only to fail to establish a program to maintain steam trap efficiency.
"Guidelines for Steam Trap Repair" offers an outline for the establishment of a plan for identifying faulty traps and returning them to effective operation. The first part of the tape provides guidelines to follow in the inspection and repair of any trap.
The viewer is taught to recognize signs of natural wear, as well as evidence of abnormal wear and its causes. Attention is paid to linkages, valves and seats, thermostatic valves, buckets, floats, and optional equipment such as strainers, scrub wires and vacuum breakers.
The second half of the tape addresses specific trap types - inverted bucket, float and thermostatic, disc and thermostatic. Each trap requires individual considerations, and attention is given to the differences as well as the common concerns.
Armstrong recommends that the tape be considered part of a series of programs including "Let’s Talk Steam Traps Update" and "Guidelines for Steam Trap Troubleshooting and Testing." Together, these three training tapes will give the viewer valuable familiarity with the construction and operation principles of all the major trap types, and the knowledge to identify and repair worn, malfunctioning traps.
"Guidelines for Steam Trap Repair" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For Steam Trap Troubleshooting and Testing
Time: 18:40
Just as properly functioning steam traps contribute to the efficient operation of a steam system, those that are malfunctioning can result in lost steam, lost heat and most especially, lost dollars. "Guidelines for Steam Trap Troubleshooting and Testing" not only outlines the need for establishing a preventive maintenance program, but details what to look and listen for in your testing.
This videotape recommends a step-by-step approach that plant energy technicians can take in testing and problem-solving. It emphasizes use of sight and hearing to gather information, then applying training and experience to evaluate the results.
Because knowing the system includes knowing the traps, the tape reviews the types of traps and types of problems that can affect their performance. By seeing and hearing those problems in action in a live-steam setting, the technician is exposed to the specifics he will face in actual operational settings. Use of glass traps for demonstration purposes helps unravel the mystery of what goes on inside steam traps.
"Guidelines for Steam Trap Troubleshooting and Testing" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Guidelines For Ultra Capacity Steam Trap Repair
Time: 23:00
Much of the needless waste of valuable steam in this country is at the expense of companies that have made a commitment to energy management but have not taken the next step - the establishment of a program to maintain steam trap efficiency.
"Guidelines for Ultra Capacity Steam Trap Repair" begins by outlining a plan for identifying faulty traps and returning them to effective operation. The first part of the tape provides guidelines that should be followed in the inspection and repair of any trap.
In the second part, Armstrong’s Ultra Capacity F&Ts (Models JD, KD, L and M) are disassembled, repaired and returned to service. Both the single-orifice and dual-orifice variations are covered.
"Guidelines for Ultra Capacity Steam Trap Repair" is intended for users of the "giant" F&Ts. It is recommended that reference be made to "Let’s Talk Steam Traps Update" and "Guidelines for Steam Trap Troubleshooting and Testing." Together, these three training tapes will give the viewer a valuable familiarity with the construction and operating principles of all the major trap types, and the knowledge to identify and correct malfunctioning, wasteful traps.
"Guidelines for Ultra Capacity Steam Trap Repair" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Armstrong Coils. Designed For Performance/Built To Last
Time: 10:00
Increasingly, North American industry relies upon steam and liquid coils for a variety of applications, from heating and drying of products we use every day, to comfort control in harsh winter environments.
Unless properly designed, built and installed, coils are vulnerable to damage from many sources. Coil failure can be caused by thermal or mechanical stress, corrosion, fouling or freezing. To survive, coils must be heavy-duty and custom-built for every application.
This 10-minute video shows the complete line of Armstrong steam and liquid coils and explains each step of the manufacturing process. Beginning with the CAD equipment used in the design stage, actual footage demonstrates the construction of the various types of coils. Among the many processes you will observe are the building of keyfin and L-fin elements, welding and machining of tubes and headers, and hydrostatic testing of coils to at least 1.5 times their maximum design pressure.
If you use coils, the survival of your business may depend on the coils you’ve chosen. The survival of your coils depends on quality design, manufacture and assembly.
"Armstrong Coils. Designed for Performance, Built to Last" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
A Matter Of Principle
Time: 8:42
If you’re replacing your traps every two years, you’re probably spending more than you have to. Most businesses cannot afford the expense or time involved in such frequent maintenance. Yet, with steam costing more than $5 per 1,000 lbs., who can afford to leave failed traps in line?
Service life is an often-overlooked consideration in the selection of steam traps. If the service life of your traps were four to five years instead of two, you could cut replacement costs and maintenance time in half. Chances are, you’d lose less steam and have to worry about it only half as often.
Armstrong’s nine-minute video cassette, "A Matter of Principle" shows why inverted bucket traps will frequently have a service life twice as long as that of disc traps.
Animation gives an inside look at the functioning principles and wear characteristics of both types of traps.
A documented case study shows that the service life of inverted bucket traps may be even longer than test results have predicted.
"A Matter of Principle" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS tape format.
Let's Talk PRVs
Time: 30:00
Pressure-reducing valves, or PRVs, are important to the efficient use of fluids and gases in industry.
"Let’s Talk PRVs" is an in-depth look at the reasons for, configurations of, and means of evaluating pressure-reducing valves.
Steam supply pressure is reduced for a number of reasons. Not the least of these is that more heat is available for transfer from lower pressure steam. The video gives the viewer an understanding of why this is true, and goes on to describe the various methods of reducing and maintaining pressure at a set level.
Animation allows the viewer to look inside several different types of PRVs to gain an understanding of their operating principles. This understanding will help the viewer select the right PRV for a particular application.
"Let’s Talk PRVs" is available in DVD and 1/2" VHS format.