In steam and condensate systems, condensate often has to be lifted to reach elevated pipelines, for example, heat exchangers that are installed at a lower level than the condensate main. This can result in water hammer which leads to damage to your steam system pipeline components and can create an unsafe environment for your staff. Gestra’s condensate dampening pot is installed at the lowest point of the pipeline.  It provides a cushioning effect to neutralize water hammer and allows noise-free condensate discharge.

Rising condensate lines may suffer from water hammer caused by steam bubbles carried over or resulting from flashing. If these steam bubbles get into sections of the line containing condensate at a much lower temperature, water hammer can occur. The steam bubbles abruptly implode and considerably reduce in volume as they pass into the liquid state. A vacuum is formed, which is rapidly filled with inflowing condensate, provoking water hammer. The pot is installed at the lowest point of the pipeline. It takes in condensate and acts as a buffer that intercepts water hammer.
The condensate inlet and outlet are arranged so that a dampening cushion, consisting of the air and steam bubbles carried over, forms in the upper part of the pot when the plant is in start up. In the lower part of the pot, condensate stays and acts as a sealing liquid. The pressure in the pot forces the onward flowing condensate into the more elevated condensate main.