Spirax Sarco FT46/FT46-C are flanged stainless steel ball float steam traps with 316 austenitic stainless steel bodies, suitable for DN15 to DN50 pipework and a maximum operating pressure of 26.1 barg for saturated steam. Featuring an integral automatic air vent, they are designed for condensate drainage from steam-heated equipment such as jacketed vessels and coil heaters; the FT46-C is available with an optional steam lock release feature.
FT46 product photo
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Spirax Sarco FT46/FT46-C Stainless Steel Ball Float Steam Trap
Stainless steel ball float steam trap for condensate drainage from process equipment, with optional steam lock release feature.
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Models
FT46 and FT46-C are flanged stainless steel ball float steam traps in the Spirax Sarco FT46 series. They feature 316 austenitic stainless steel bodies and stainless steel internals, are available in DN15 to DN50 sizes, and support multiple flange standards. FT46 is the base model for standard steam condensate drainage. FT46-C is equipped with a manually adjustable needle valve and can provide a Steam Lock Release function for applications with a risk of steam locking. Select the specific model based on whether Steam Lock Release is required, the actual maximum differential pressure, size, flange standard, and installation flow direction.
FT46Standard Stainless Steel Ball Float Steam Trap
FT46 is the base model in the Spirax Sarco FT46 series for steam condensate drainage. It features a 316 austenitic stainless steel body and stainless steel internals, with flanged connections in DN15, DN20, DN25, DN40, and DN50 sizes. The standard flange is EN 1092 PN40, with ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or Class 300 flanges available as options. Its maximum allowable pressure is 33.2 bar g @ 100°C, maximum allowable temperature is 400°C @ 22.4 bar g, and maximum operating pressure for saturated steam is 26.1 bar g @ 287°C. Multiple maximum differential pressure configurations are available.
FT46-CStainless Steel Ball Float Steam Trap with Steam Lock Release Function
FT46-C is a Spirax Sarco FT46 series model equipped with a manually adjustable needle valve for steam condensate drainage. It features a 316 austenitic stainless steel body and stainless steel internals, with flanged connections in DN15, DN20, DN25, DN40, and DN50 sizes. The standard flange is EN 1092 PN40, with ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or Class 300 flanges available as options. This model can be supplied with a Steam Lock Release function. The series documentation specifies a maximum allowable pressure of 33.2 bar g @ 100°C, a maximum allowable temperature of 400°C @ 22.4 bar g, and a maximum operating pressure for saturated steam of 26.1 bar g @ 287°C.
Specifications
- Body Material
- Austenitic stainless steel (316), 1.4408 / CF8M
- Internal Component Material
- Stainless steel
- Connection Type
- Flanged connection
- Flange Standard
- EN 1092 PN40; ANSI B16.5 Class 150 and Class 300 optional
- Flange Facing Standard
- EN 26554 (Series 1)
- Connection Sizes
- DN15, DN20, DN25, DN40, DN50
- Maximum Allowable Pressure
- 33.2 bar g @ 100°C
- Maximum Allowable Temperature
- 400°C @ 22.4 bar g
- Minimum Allowable Temperature
- -10°C
- Maximum Operating Pressure for Saturated Steam
- 26.1 bar g @ 287°C
- Maximum Operating Temperature
- 287°C @ 26.1 bar g
- Maximum Differential Pressure
- 4.5 bar, 10 bar, 14 bar, 21 bar, 32 bar; 14 bar not applicable to DN40 and DN50
- Superheated Steam Capability
- 150°C superheat @ 0 barg; 50°C superheat @ 32 barg, with BP99/32 capsule
- Cold Hydraulic Test Pressure
- 60 barg
- Maximum Test Pressure with Internal Components Fitted
- 48 bar
- Optional Feature
- FT46-C is available with steam lock release (SLR) capability
- Available Certificate
- EN 10204 3.1
Application scenarios
Condensate Drainage from Steam-Heated Process Equipment
For condensate discharge from steam-heated process equipment such as jacketed vessels and coil heaters. The FT46 features a 316 austenitic stainless steel body, stainless steel internal components, flanged connections, and an integral automatic air vent.
Equipment Drainage under Superheated Steam Conditions
For heating equipment using superheated steam within the specified superheat range, or its condensate branch lines. When fitted with a BP99/32 capsule, the FT46 is suitable for superheated steam service and condensate discharge.
Equipment Drainage Points Requiring Steam Lock Release
For condensate outlets of steam equipment subject to steam locking where the process requires steam lock release. The FT46-C with a manually adjustable needle valve provides steam lock release capability.
Air Venting and Condensate Discharge during Steam Heat Exchanger Start-Up
For condensate outlets of steam heat exchange equipment, discharging air and condensate during start-up and operation. The FT46 incorporates an automatic air vent and is suitable for drainage duties in steam-heated equipment.
Selection points
316 Stainless Steel Body and Stainless Steel Internals
The FT46/FT46-C features a 316 austenitic stainless steel body (1.4408/CF8M) and stainless steel internals.
Multiple Maximum Differential Pressure Ratings
Available maximum differential pressure ratings are 4.5 bar, 10 bar, 14 bar, 21 bar, and 32 bar. The 14 bar rating is not available for DN40 and DN50.
Optional Steam Lock Release Function for FT46-C
The FT46-C can be fitted with a manually adjustable needle valve to provide a Steam Lock Release (SLR) function.
Balance Pipe and Drain Valve Connections Available to Order
A 3/8 in. BSP or NPT threaded connection can be machined at the top of the cover for a balance pipe. A 3/8 in. BSP or NPT threaded connection can also be machined at the bottom of the cover for a drain valve.
Optional Flange Standards
The standard flange is EN 1092 PN40. ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or Class 300 flanges are available as options, in sizes from DN15 to DN50.
Installation & maintenance notes
Install According to the Flow Direction for Each Size
Connect the piping according to the flow direction marked on the body: when facing the valve body, flow is from left to right for DN15, DN20, and DN25, and from right to left for DN40 and DN50.
Verify Maximum Operating Differential Pressure and Size Limitations
Before installation, confirm that the site operating differential pressure does not exceed the maximum differential pressure of the selected model. Available maximum differential pressures are 4.5 bar, 10 bar, 14 bar, 21 bar, and 32 bar; the 14 bar rating is not available for DN40 and DN50.
FAQ
What is the operating principle of the FT46 stainless steel ball float steam trap?
The FT46 uses a ball float that responds to changing condensate levels to actuate the valve. Horizontal positioning through the float arm enables discharge and drainage. An integral air vent automatically vents air while the system is online, providing the basic steam trapping function.
What key pressure and temperature limits should be considered for the FT46?
The valve body is rated PN40, with a maximum PMO of 26.1 bar g@287°C, a maximum TMA of 400°C@22.4 bar g, and a minimum operating temperature of 0°C. The specific maximum operating pressure and temperature must be confirmed based on the DN size and selected accessories.
What technical value does the FT46-C option provide for the system?
The FT46-C provides a manually adjustable needle valve and steam lock release (SLR) capability, improving control of air venting and steam release when required.
What should be considered for flanged connections and piping installation?
Flanged connections comply with EN1092 PN40, with facings in accordance with EN26554 (Series 1), and DN15–DN50 sizes are available. Body flow direction is left to right for DN15–DN25 and right to left for DN40–DN50. During installation, ensure that the drilled hole position at the top or bottom of the cover meets the ordering requirements.
What information should be confirmed before purchase regarding certification and compliance?
The product standard can comply with the European Pressure Equipment Directive, and EN10204 3.1 certification is available. If certification is required, please specify this when ordering. The exact configuration must be confirmed based on the actual model and application conditions.