Installing a SmartJackets is a simple process that begins once Smart Jacket-ready jackets (other insulation) has been prepared for the components that will be monitored.

The first step involved is plugging the gateway into a power source. The gateway contains a radio that communicates with the SmartJacket nodes, and a cellular modem that sends the data to the internet. Prior to installation, our team determines the ideal cellular carrier for the facility and estimates the number of gateways required… More

Steam traps play an essential role in steam systems and must be routinely maintained to minimize energy losses, system damage, and personnel risks. In our white paper, we conducted a detailed analysis of the overall cost per trap associated with various maintenance approaches over a 12 year period and compared them with the losses of an unmaintained system to help determine the most cost effective approach for low, medium, and high pressure applications… More

The Smart Jacket has fundamentally changed the role of insulation. What was once just a line-item is now a window to the component within that can be utilized most effectively as part of a comprehensive asset management program. In this article we will outline the primary elements of an asset management program and discuss how these can complement, or sometimes augment, Smart Jacket data. We’ll often reference steam traps, but the principles are almost universally applicable… More

Thermaxx, LLC has modified their patent pending Smart Jacket system. Smart Jackets can now wirelessly notify facility managers of low temperatures in a pipeline to prevent freezing. All too often the only way to know if a pipe or valve is freezing, or has already frozen, is when the system stops working. After the system is frozen, expensive repairs are required to get the system up and running again… More

Mechanical insulation has been used since piping has been carrying materials at a temperature higher or lower than ambient temperature the pipe is running through. As the industrial age advanced to the technology age, new construction and renovation specifications required steam, hot water, chilled water and cold water pipe to be insulated. Through the years, standards were tightened and material efficiencies improved. The specifications below show a detailed matrix specifying the actual required pipe insulation thickness based on pipe size and temperature… More

According to the United States Department of Energy, “In steam systems that have not been maintained for 3 to 5 years, between 15% to 30% of the installed steam traps may have failed—thus allowing live steam to escape into the condensate return system.” In other words, your facility is losing money because the costly steam that has been produced is not being put to use!

In turn, more steam has to be produced to make up for the steam that escaped through the leak. In this article we’ll discuss the most common causes of a leaking steam trap and how to prevent and diagnose a steam leak. We’ll also provide additional information to assist you in calculating the cost of your lost steam… More

Steam systems perform a significant function in many manufacturing plants. As the primary medium of transferring heat throughout the plant, the efficient and proper use of steam can have a considerable impact on a factory’s energy costs. The steam trap is a critical, yet often overlooked, component of the steam system…More

Because most types of steam traps rely on temperature change to work effectively, it is very important to closely monitor heat loss and heat retention in the steam traps. If steam traps are opening too frequently because of temperature volatility, it’s likely that the extra wear and tear will necessitate frequent replacement. Conversely, if steam traps are not opening frequently enough and condensation is allowed to accumulate, this causes a whole other problem…More

When it comes to steam trap monitoring equipment, you have several options. Visual, Thermal, and Ultrasonic steam trap monitoring systems exist, each having their own positives and negatives. Is constant monitoring important to you? Would you like remote heat monitoring options? Which type will work best with any insulation you have installed? Making the right decision can ensure your systems run smoothly and effectively…More