Pumping Trap Definitions

Motive:
Motive describes the force used to push the condensate out of the pumping trap and into the return line. The most common motive forces used are steam and air. Armstrong Fluid Handling recommends that a motive force of 10 to 15 psig (.69 to 1.03 bar) above back pressure be used for optimum pump results.

Back Pressure:
Back pressure is the amount of pressure in the return line that the motive and pump will have to overcome. Total back pressure needs to include any vertical lift, existing return line pressure and friction loss due to length of return line.

Fill Head:
Fill head is the distance from the top of the pumping trap to the bottom of the receiver.

Click here to learn more about fill head conversion factors.

Stall Load:
Stall load is a condition in which heat transfer equipment is unable to drain condensate and becomes flooded due to insufficient system pressure.

Fill Head