The Gestra MK36/51 is a steam trap with a bimetallic regulator, designed for condensate drainage from pipelines and equipment in steam systems. It features a 1.4301 stainless steel body and a Hastelloy® stainless steel regulating diaphragm, together with an integrated strainer. The maximum operating gauge pressure and permissible differential pressure are 32 bar, and the maximum operating temperature is 245 °C. The trap supports threaded, union nut, and socket-weld connections, and can be installed in either horizontal or vertical pipelines to meet system requirements for Group 2 fluids.
MK36/51 Bimetallic Thermostatic Steam Trap | Gestra
Bimetallic steam trap for condensate discharge from steam lines, installable horizontally or vertically.
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Specifications
- Steam trap type
- Steam trap with bimetallic regulator
- Maximum operating gauge pressure
- 32 bar (465 psi)
- Maximum operating temperature
- 245 °C (473 °F)
- Maximum permissible differential pressure
- 32 bar (465 psi)
- Body design pressure
- 49 bar (711 psi) at 20 °C; 28 bar (406 psi) at 400 °C
- Body design temperature
- 400 °C at 28 bar
- Body material
- Stainless steel 1.4301 (ASME SA479 Type 304)
- Regulating diaphragm material
- Hastelloy® stainless steel
- Connection type
- R and NPT threads; optional union nut or socket-weld connection
- Connection sizes
- 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 3/4"; union nut or socket-weld connection: 1/2"
- Installation orientation
- Suitable for installation in horizontal and vertical pipelines
- Condensate subcooling
- Approximately 10 K with standard diaphragm; approximately 30 K with subcooling diaphragm
- Integrated strainer
- Integrated strainer
- Applicable fluid group
- Pressure Equipment Directive Group 2 fluids
- Inspection certificates
- EN 10204 2.2 and 3.1 available as options
Application scenarios
Condensate drainage in steam systems
Used for condensate drainage from pipelines or equipment in steam systems. This bimetallic-regulated steam trap features a stainless steel body and an integrated strainer, with a maximum operating gauge pressure and maximum permissible differential pressure of 32 bar and a maximum operating temperature of 245 °C.
Installation & maintenance notes
Installation direction and pipeline orientation
The steam trap can be installed in horizontal or vertical pipelines. During installation, it must be correctly arranged according to the pipeline orientation on site to prevent improper installation from affecting normal drainage and diaphragm operation.
Operating pressure and permissible differential pressure limits
During operation and commissioning, both the operating gauge pressure and the permissible differential pressure of the valve must not exceed 32 bar.
FAQ
How does the MK36/51 operate, and what is its function in a steam system?
The MK36/51 uses the thermodynamic operating principle of a bimetallic steam trap. It incorporates an integral strainer and a corrosion-resistant regulating diaphragm, and discharges condensate by sensing the pressure differential in the steam-condensate system, thereby reducing steam loss and preventing condensate accumulation.
What are the main differences between the MK36/51 and MK36/52, and how should the selection be made?
The MK36/51 is designed for low condensate flow rates and features a series shut-off device. The MK36/52 is suitable for higher condensate flow rates and features a flat valve seat. The available diaphragms are 5N1/5U1 and 5N2/5U2, respectively. Final selection must be confirmed based on the actual condensate flow rate and operating conditions.
What connection options are available for this steam trap?
Connection options include R and NPT threads on threaded sockets in sizes such as 1/4", 1/2", 3/8", and 3/4", as well as connections for union nuts or welded connections in 1/2" size.
What are the material specifications and applicable temperature and pressure ranges of the MK36/51?
The body is made of 1.4301 stainless steel. The maximum operating pressure and temperature, together with the body design parameters, are specified in the product tables. During operation, the rated PMA, TMA, PMO, TMO, and ΔPMX limits must be observed. The specific values shall be determined from the parameter table for the actual model.
What installation and maintenance points should be observed?
Before installation, verify that the thread specification matches the piping connection method and inspect the condition of the integral strainer. During maintenance, check the body sealing surfaces and the wear condition of the bimetallic regulating components, and clean or replace the relevant parts in accordance with the technical documentation. Specific procedures shall be determined according to the actual site conditions.

