E Series Condensate Recovery Unit Installation and Maintenance Guide | Spirax Sarco

Covers safety requirements, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of E Series condensate recovery units. Suitable for process or boiler house make-up water systems.

E-Series Condensate Recovery Unit Schematic

E-Series Condensate Recovery Unit Schematic

  1. Safety Information
  2. Product Information
  3. Installation
  4. Electrical Control Principle and Wiring Diagram
  5. Operation and Shutdown Maintenance
  6. Commissioning
  7. Maintenance and Repair
  8. Spare Parts
  9. Troubleshooting

1. Safety Information

Correct installation, commissioning and maintenance by qualified personnel in accordance with the operating instructions is the only guarantee of safe operation of this product (see Section 1.1). After installation, the installation instructions and safety guidelines for the piping system and plant building must be followed, and tools must be used correctly with the necessary safety equipment provided.

1.1 Intended Use

Refer to the installation and maintenance instructions, nameplate and technical information sheet to confirm whether this product is suitable for the application at the intended site. This product is not pressure equipment and is designed for operation at atmospheric pressure. Therefore, the unit is not covered by the European Pressure Equipment Directive.

i) The product is designed for Group 2 fluids under the Pressure Equipment Directive, including steam, air and water/condensate. For use with other fluids, consult Spirax Sarco.
ii) Ensure that the product materials are suitable for the operating conditions, and that the maximum and minimum system pressures and temperatures are within the product’s design range. If the product’s maximum operating range is below the system operating conditions, or if product failure could result in overpressure or overtemperature, install safety devices to address the hazard.
iii) Ensure that the product is installed correctly and that the inlet and outlet are not connected incorrectly.
iv) Spirax Sarco products cannot withstand external pressure. The installer must prevent external forces in the system from acting on this product.
v) Before installing the product in a steam or other high-temperature system, remove the protective covers from all product connections and the protective film from the nameplate.

1.2 Accessibility

After installation, ensure that sufficient operating space is available. Where necessary, provide a safe working platform before operating the product. Provide lifting equipment where required.

1.3 Lighting

Ensure that adequate lighting is available, particularly during detailed or complex operations.

1.4 Hazardous Fluids or Gases in the Pipeline

Consider in advance which fluids are present in the pipeline or may have been present in it. Take care with flammable substances, substances hazardous to health, and substances at high or low temperatures.

1.5 Hazardous Working Environment

Potential hazards include explosion risks, oxygen deficiency, such as inside tanks or in low-lying areas, hazardous gases, high or low temperatures, hot surfaces, fire hazards, such as during welding, excessive noise, and moving machinery.

1.6 The System

Understand how the complete system operates. Before carrying out any operation, such as closing an isolation valve or operating an electrical switch, consider whether this could place other parts of the system or other personnel at risk.

Hazards include isolating drain outlets or protective devices and disabling control or alarm devices. Open and close isolation valves slowly to prevent system shock.

1.7 Pressure Systems

Ensure that system pressure is isolated or completely vented and drained. Consider using double isolation valves and locking or labeling closed valves. Never assume that a pressure gauge reading of zero means that the system has been completely depressurized.

1.8 Temperature

After isolating the product, allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent burns.

1.9 Tools and Spare Parts

Before starting work, ensure that suitable tools and spare parts are available. Use genuine Spirax Sarco spare parts only.

1.10 Protective Clothing

Consider whether operating personnel or personnel in the vicinity require protective clothing.

1.11 Work Permits

All work must be carried out by competent personnel or under their supervision. Installation and operating personnel must be trained in accordance with the product’s installation and maintenance instructions so that they can use the product correctly.

Where a work permit system is in operation, personnel must comply with that system. Where no such system is in operation, the person responsible must understand the nature of the work and, where necessary, appoint a safety assistant.

Post warning notices where necessary.

1.12 Handling

Manual handling of large or heavy products may cause injury. Lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying or supporting heavy loads with the body can cause injury, particularly back injury. It is recommended that the workload, individual capabilities, load and working environment be considered, and that appropriate handling measures be adopted according to site conditions.

1.13 Residual Heat

During normal use, the external surface of this product may become very hot. When operated at the maximum allowable operating temperature, the product surface temperature may reach 200°C (392°F). This product is not self-draining. Take care when removing or moving it from its installed position (refer to the maintenance instructions).

1.14 Freezing

For non-self-draining products used at ambient temperatures below freezing point, appropriate frost protection must be provided.

1.15 Disposal

Unless otherwise stated in the installation and maintenance instructions, this product is recyclable and presents no ecological hazard when disposed of properly.

1.16 Returning Products

In accordance with EC health, safety and environmental legislation, when returning products, customers and resellers must provide hazard information and carefully handle any residual contaminants or mechanical damage that may present a health, safety or environmental hazard. Hazard information must be submitted in writing, including health and safety data sheets identifying any known or potential hazards.

2. Product Information

2.1 Introduction

The Spirax Sarco open electric condensate recovery pump set uses electric power to pressurize and recover high-temperature steam condensate for use in processes or as boiler make-up water. The unit mainly comprises a control system, condensate tank, electric centrifugal pump and other piping accessories.

The unit is installed and tested before shipment. It can be put into operation after the site connections for water and electricity have been completed.

2.2 Main Components

Control System

A touchscreen and PLC control system are used to meet condensate management requirements. The system incorporates a magnetic flap level gauge and temperature detection device, with level and temperature signal outputs available. The electric pump level settings can be configured flexibly according to the actual load conditions at the site. The complete unit is controlled by a programmed system and can operate automatically without attendance after commissioning has been completed.

Electric Pump

The unit uses a Grundfos high-temperature electric pump with an integrated motor, mechanical seal, Class F insulation and IP55 protection rating. The standard configuration includes an automatic air venting device to prevent mechanical seal or motor damage caused by the ingress of air or steam.

Condensate Tank

The tank and associated connecting pipework are made of carbon steel. Standard products have a blue-painted surface. Stainless steel construction is also available; consult Spirax Sarco for details. An anti-vortex device is installed inside the tank, and a sufficient inlet head is ensured. A magnetic flap level gauge is fitted as standard on the side of the tank. The tank is designed with a drain outlet, overflow outlet and condensate inlet.

2.3 Technical Data Requirements

Maximum design water temperature95°C
Power supply requirements380V, three-phase, 50Hz
ControlLevel control provided by PLC

2.4 Selection Guidelines

Condensate Recovery Unit Selection Diagram

According to the selection table above, draw a horizontal line from the pump head and a vertical line from the condensate flow rate to be handled. The pump model to be selected is identified by the intersection of the two lines. If there are any special requirements, specify them when placing the order.

2.5 Connection Port Sizes and Dimensions

Connection Port Sizes and Dimensions Diagram

Connection Port Sizes and Dimensions Diagram

Connection Port Sizes

ModelAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHAnchor Foot
A10DN100DN25DN80DN100DN50DN50DN15DN40φ 22
B20DN150DN25DN100DN150DN80DN65DN15DN65φ 22
C30DN150DN25DN100DN150DN80DN80DN15DN80φ 22
D40DN150DN25DN150DN200DN80DN100DN15DN80φ 22

Dimensions (approx. mm)

ModelABCDEFGHLJKWeight (kg)
A101230160037050036037018251569600183518351000
B201350180043550043043520001643900239223421400
C301350180043550043043521501795900240223521500
D4014501800280650590280233019101200280227521800

Note: The weight is an approximate value excluding water.

Electric Pump Power and Cable Specification Table

ModelMode: Single-Motor Power (kW)Electric Pump Group Power (kW)Power Cable Specification (mm²)
A10-30.551.34*2.5+1*1.5
A10-40.551.34*2.5+1*1.5
A10-50.751.74*2.5+1*1.5
A10-71.12.54*2.5+1*1.5
A10-91.53.34*2.5+1*1.5
B20-20.751.74*2.5+1*1.5
B20-31.12.54*2.5+1*1.5
B20-41.53.34*2.5+1*1.5
B20-62.24.74*2.5+1*1.5
C30-22.24.74*2.5+1*1.5
C30-336.34*4.0+1*2.5
C30-448.34*4.0+1*2.5
D40-11.12.54*2.5+1*1.5
D40-22.24.74*2.5+1*1.5
D40-348.34*4.0+1*2.5
D40-45.511.34*6.0+1*4

3. Installation

Note: Read the safety information in Chapter 1 carefully before installation.

3.1 The pump group is packed in a wooden crate. Check it upon receipt to ensure that it has not been damaged. The pump group includes 1 control cabinet, 2 electric pumps, a magnetic flap level gauge, a signal transmitter, a pressure gauge, and other components.
3.2 The two electric pumps are installed below the water tank. Isolation valves are provided at the inlets and outlets, and check valves are provided at the outlets.
3.3 Check the material, pressure range, and temperature range of the pump group. Ensure that the maximum operating pressure and temperature range of the pump group are higher than the system pressure and temperature range to ensure safety.
3.4 Remove the protective covers from all connections.
3.5 Ensure correct installation and flow direction.
3.6 Piping: The piping connected to the condensate collection tank and the electric pump outlets must not be subjected to stresses caused by expansion or inadequate support.
3.7 Electrical wiring: Refer to the electrical control schematic for wiring, including the power and signal cables. All electrical wiring must comply with national or local code requirements.
3.8 The condensate collection tank is not a pressure vessel and must not be pressurized. It must be vented to the atmosphere.

4. Electrical Control Principles and Wiring Diagrams

4.1 Incoming Power Circuit

Incoming Power Circuit Diagram

4.2 Pump Main Circuit

Pump Main Circuit Wiring Diagram

4.3 Control Circuit

Control Circuit Electrical Schematic

4.4 System Diagram

Electrical Control System Diagram for the Condensate Recovery Unit

4.5 DI

DI Digital Input Wiring Diagram

4.6 DO
DI Digital Input Wiring Diagram

4.7 AI

DI Wiring Diagram

4.8 Modbus

Modbus Communication Diagram

4.9 Layout Drawing

Condensate Recovery Unit Layout Drawing

Condensate Recovery Unit Layout Drawing

Condensate Recovery Unit Layout Drawing

4.10 Terminal Diagram Table

FunctionTerminalWire No.Page/Path ^WERTerminal Model
=+-X0
Incoming power: AC 380 V, 3-phase, 5-wire, 5 kW1 •A/10.1GK5
=2 •B/10.1GK5
=3 •C/10.1GK5
=4 •N0/10.1GK5
=5 •/10.2GK5PE
#1 Pump, 2.2 kW6 •L12/11.2GK5
=7 •L22/11.2GK5
=8 •L32/11.2GK5
=9 •/11.2GK5PE
#2 Pump, 2.2 kW10 •L14/11.4GK5
=11 •L24/11.5GK5
=12 •L34/11.5GK5
=13 •/11.5GK5PE
=+-X1
Remote start/stop1 •24+/14.7GK3
Remote start/stop2 •14.701/14.7GK3
Total alarm3 •15.502/15.5GK3
=4 •15.503/15.5GK3
Remote status5 •15.602/15.6GK3
=6 •15.603/15.6GK3
Operating status7 •15.702/15.7GK3
=8 •15.703/15.7GK3
Level sensor9 •24+/16.1GK3
=10 •16.101/16.2GK3
=11 •/16.2GK3PE
Temperature sensor12 •16.501/16.5GK3
=13 •16.502/16.5GK3
=14 •16.601/16.6GK3
=15 •/16.6GK3PE
RS-485 communication16 •A+/17.1GK3
=17 •B-/17.2GK3
=18 •/17.2GK3PE
19 •GK3
20 •GK3
21 •GK3
22 •GK3
23 •GK3
24 •GK3
25 •GK3

5. Operation

After installation or maintenance, ensure that the system is connected correctly.

5.1 Startup

  1. Check whether the system pressure piping and accessory connections are normal.
  2. Ensure that all system isolation valves remain fully open, and confirm that the system can be filled with water normally.
  3. Check whether the electrical system is functioning normally.
  4. Before energizing the equipment, check whether the electric pump is filled with water through the air vent valve on the pump.
  5. Energize the control cabinet only after confirming that the cabinet grounding and power supply are reliable.
  6. After energization, first check whether the instruments display correctly.
  7. Check whether all touch-screen pages are displayed correctly.

5.2.1 Storage Protection

The pump assembly undergoes a hydrostatic pressure test before shipment, so residual water may remain in the piping and pump casing when the equipment is shipped. If the equipment is not installed and operated after delivery, take measures to prevent freezing. Similarly, water may remain in the piping and pump casing after system shutdown, so appropriate freeze protection measures must be taken.

5.2.2 Equipment Shutdown

  1. Stop the electric pump manually.
  2. Switch off the power supply.
  3. Close the electric pump inlet and outlet valves.
  4. Drain the water from the system through the drain valve on the tank, and discharge the condensate to a safe area.
  5. If the water pump will remain shut down for an extended period, take measures to prevent freezing.

6. Commissioning

6.1 Control Cabinet Display Operation Instructions

Main Screen

The main screen is the main window of the electric pump control system. It controls the water pumps and displays measurement parameters such as level, temperature, flow rate, and heat.

Control Cabinet Display Screen Main Screen Diagram

Pump Assembly Control

The water pumps have three control modes: local-automatic control, local-manual control, and remote control. The operating steps are as follows:

  • Step 1: Set the selector switch to local and automatic.

Local Remote Automatic Manual

Local-Automatic Control Selector Switch Diagram

Local-Automatic Control Selector Switch Operation Diagram

  • Step 2: After switching the system stop/start selector to Start, automatic operation begins. After switching it to Stop, the system stops.

Stop Start

Local-Automatic Control Operation Diagram

▶ Local Manual Control

  • Step 1: Set the selector switch to Local, Manual, or Stop.

Local

Remote

Auto

Manual

Stop

Start

Local manual control selector switch diagram

Local manual control selector switch diagram

Local manual control interface diagram

  • Step 2: Click the graphic for Pump 1 or Pump 2 to open the corresponding control dialog, then click the Start/Stop button to control the corresponding pump.

Local manual control operation diagram

▶ Remote Control

If the customer has a supervisory computer, set the selector switch to Remote to enable start/stop control from the supervisory computer.

▶ Reset Cumulative Total

Click

Reset Cumulative Total

to reset the current cumulative value to zero and start accumulating again.

Parameter Settings

The parameter settings screen allows you to set the pump control level, alarm level, pump discharge pressure input, and pump changeover time.

Note: The pump discharge pressure input is used to calculate flow rate and heat quantity.

Parameter settings interface diagram

Trend Charts

The trend chart screen displays current and historical level or temperature trends.

Level or temperature trend chart

Level or temperature trend chart

The table below the trend chart displays the corresponding historical data.

Trend ViewVariable ConnectionValueDate/Time

▶ Toolbar Functions

  • Select the time point for viewing the control curve:

Trend chart toolbar function diagram

  • Zoom in or out of the trend chart:

Trend chart toolbar function diagram

  • Move the reference line left or right:

Toolbar function diagram

Alarms

Click “Alarms” on the main screen to open the alarm screen, which displays the generated alarm records.

Alarm list interface diagram

Alarm List

No.Alarm DescriptionRemarks
1Low Level AlarmCheck the actual level and whether the make-up water valve is opening correctly
2High Level AlarmCheck the actual level and whether the make-up water valve is closing correctly
3Pump 1 FaultPump 1 overcurrent; check the pump and measure the actual current
4Pump 2 FaultPump 2 overcurrent; check the pump and measure the actual current
5High Temperature AlarmCheck the actual temperature and whether the temperature control valve is regulating correctly
6Low Temperature AlarmCheck the actual temperature and whether the temperature control valve is regulating correctly
7Emergency Stop AlarmThe emergency stop button has been pressed. Release it by turning it, then press the reset button

7. Maintenance and Repair

Maintenance and repair diagram

Note: Before starting any repair work, refer to the safety information in Part 1.

Power Isolation

Isolate the pump inlet and ensure that the tank does not leak. Allow the condensate to cool sufficiently (below 25°C), then slowly open the pump outlet to discharge the condensate to a safe area.

If only one pump is being repaired or maintained while the system remains in normal operation, operate the control cabinet as follows: switch to single-pump operation; after ensuring that it is safe to do so, isolate the inlet and outlet isolation valves of the pump requiring repair, allow it to cool to a safe temperature, and do not begin repair or maintenance until the condensate has been completely drained. After the repair or maintenance is complete, perform a thorough inspection. Only after confirming that the pump has been installed correctly may you operate the control cabinet and switch to dual-pump operation.

If the pump requires repair or servicing, refer to the pump manufacturer’s operating instructions. Contact Spirax Sarco to order spare parts if required.

Periodic inspection and maintenance are effective ways to ensure efficient operation of the pump set.

8. Spare Parts

For spare parts, contact Spirax Sarco promptly.

9. Troubleshooting

FaultPossible CauseAction
Insufficient Capacity1. Incorrect direction of rotationViewed from the pump toward the motor, the rotation should be counterclockwise. If not, rewire the motor
2. Inlet valve partially openEnsure that the valve is fully open
3. Discharge valve partially openAdjust the valve opening according to the capacity requirements to avoid cavitation
4. Condensate temperature too highConfirm the system design temperature
5. Pressure loss in the condensate return piping exceeds the design valueEnsure that the system flow loss and static head do not exceed the pump head
Cavitation1. Inlet valve partially openEnsure that the valve is fully open
2. Insufficient headIncrease the pump discharge valve opening to increase the head
3. Condensate temperature too highConfirm the condensate temperature
4. Impeller partially blockedRemove the pump and clean the impeller
Frequent Starting1. Improper level settingReset the level
2. Level gauge damagedInspect and replace the level gauge
Excessive Capacity1. Head too lowPartially close the pump discharge shut-off valve to increase resistance. Do not close the valve completely
2. Incorrect motor wiringCheck the wiring against the electrical diagram
3. Incorrect rotationViewed from the pump toward the motor, ensure that the rotation is counterclockwise
4. Mechanical frictionCheck whether the pump is blocked internally

Note: For faults related to the electric pump, refer to the electric pump documentation

FAQ

Which systems is the Spirax Sarco E Series Condensate Recovery Unit suitable for?

The E Series is used to pressurize and recover high-temperature steam condensate. It is suitable for condensate recovery in process systems and boiler room makeup water. The unit consists of a control system, condensate collection tank, electric centrifugal pump, and associated piping accessories. The maximum design water temperature is 95°C. The collection tank operates at atmospheric pressure and must be vented to the atmosphere during installation.

How does the E Series Condensate Recovery Unit provide automatic operation and remote monitoring?

The unit uses a touchscreen and PLC for control. A magnetic flap level gauge and temperature sensor collect level and temperature signals, and the electric pump is operated according to the preset level. The control system supports three modes: local automatic, local manual, and remote. In remote mode, the host computer can control start and stop operations. The system also provides terminals for remote start/stop, common alarm, remote status, operating status, and RS-485 communication.

How should the pump set model be selected for the E Series Condensate Recovery Unit?

Selection should primarily be based on the condensate flow rate to be handled by the system and the pump head required. On the selection chart, draw a horizontal line corresponding to the required head and a straight line corresponding to the condensate flow rate. The area at the intersection of the two lines is used to determine the pump model. During engineering verification, the flow losses and static head in the recovery piping must not exceed the head of the selected pump. Confirm that the condensate temperature does not exceed 95°C.

What are the key installation and power supply requirements for the E Series unit?

Before installation, verify that the pump set materials and applicable pressure and temperature ranges meet the system operating conditions. Piping connections must not transfer stresses caused by thermal expansion or improper pipe support to the collection tank or pump outlet. The equipment uses a 380 V, three-phase, 50 Hz power supply. Power and signal wiring must comply with local regulations. The two electric pumps are installed below the water tank. Isolation valves are provided at the inlets and outlets, and check valves are installed at the outlets. Confirm the flow direction during installation.

What should be checked if the E Series Condensate Recovery Unit has insufficient flow, cavitation, or frequent starts?

For insufficient flow, check the motor rotation direction, the opening of the inlet and outlet valves, the condensate temperature, and whether recovery piping losses exceed the pump head. If cavitation occurs, confirm that the inlet valve is fully open, the condensate temperature is within the permitted range, and the head conditions are suitable. Also check whether the impeller is blocked. Frequent starts generally require checking whether the level settings are appropriate and whether the level gauge is damaged. Before maintenance, isolate the power supply and relevant piping, drain the condensate, and allow it to cool before starting work.

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