The Spirax Sarco Pivotrol PTC/PTF is a mechanical pump for high-temperature condensate that requires no electrical power. It can use steam, compressed air, or other compressed gases as the motive medium. The series is available with ductile iron or structural steel pump bodies, has a maximum operating pressure of 200 psig, and is fitted with chromium-nickel-iron alloy springs. These pumps are designed to recover high-temperature condensate from vacuum or low-pressure systems and to lift and transfer condensate from heat exchange equipment, effectively overcoming system return backpressure.
PTC & PTF Pivotrol® Mechanical Condensate Pump (Patented) | Spirax Sarco
Non-electric mechanical pump for lifting and recovering high-temperature condensate from low-pressure or vacuum systems, with NPT connections.
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Specifications
- Motive Medium
- Steam, compressed air, or other compressed gases
- Maximum Operating Pressure (PMO)
- 200 psig (13.8 barg)
- Maximum Allowable Pressure (PMA)
- 200 psig at 400°F (13.8 barg at 204°C)
- Maximum Allowable Temperature (TMA)
- 400°F at 200 psig (204°C at 13.8 barg)
- Connection Size
- 2"×2", 3"×2"
- Connection Type
- NPT
- Pump Body Material
- PTC: ductile iron (ASTM A395); PTF: cast steel (ASME SA216 WCB)
- Displacement per Cycle
- PTC: 7.1 gal (26.9 L); PTF: 8.4 gal (31.8 L)
- Average Instantaneous Discharge Rate
- 90 gpm (5.7 L/s)
- Specific Gravity of Pumped Liquid
- 0.90-1.0
- Maximum Cycles per Minute
- 6
- Minimum Differential Pressure Required
- 5 psig
- Inlet Head (Measured from Pump Cover)
- 12" (305 mm)
- Spring Material
- Chromium-nickel-iron alloy
- Average Steam Consumption
- 3 lbs. per 1000 lbs. pumped
Application scenarios
High-Temperature Condensate Recovery from Vacuum or Low-Pressure Systems
Collects and transports high-temperature condensate from vacuum or low-pressure areas to higher-pressure areas or higher elevations. The pump can be driven by steam, compressed air, or other compressed gases and requires no electricity.
Lifted Condensate Recovery from Steam Heat-Transfer Equipment
Transports high-temperature condensate from steam heat-transfer equipment or its low-point collection device to a higher elevation or a condensate recovery system with backpressure. It is suitable for applications in which liquid on the low-pressure side must overcome return-line pressure and can be driven by steam or compressed air.
FAQ
How does the Pivotrol PTC/PTF work?
The Pivotrol® mechanical pump uses steam, compressed air, or other compressed gases as the motive medium to lift liquid from a low point or low-pressure area to a high-pressure area or higher elevation without electricity. Its core PowerPivot® technology enables high-temperature liquid transfer without electrical power.
What are the key selection considerations for the applicable liquid specific gravity range and liquid properties?
The standard Pivotrol pump handles liquids with a specific gravity of 0.90-1.0. Modified versions can handle liquids with a specific gravity as low as 0.65. Selection should be confirmed based on the actual liquid specific gravity, temperature, and differential pressure conditions.
What are the main structural and application differences between the PTC and PTF?
The PTC has a ductile iron pump body, while the PTF has a cast steel pump body. Both are available in 2×2 or 3×2 sizes, use NPT connections, and feature built-in stainless steel valve assemblies. The PTF materials comply with ASME code requirements, resulting in differences in overall construction and temperature resistance.
What are the key points regarding the pump's service life warranty and operating conditions?
The pump is covered by a quality guarantee for 3,000,000 cycles and includes a two-year warranty on the spring. Displacement per cycle is approximately 7.1 gal for the PTC or 8.4 gal for the PTF. The pump is also specified with corresponding inlet and discharge heads and gas consumption parameters. During operation, the motive gas pressure should be maintained 15-20 psig above backpressure to extend service life.
What documentation and requirements should I consider for installation and maintenance?
Installation drawing TI-5-202-US and a complete maintenance guide, IM-5-211-US, are provided. Optional accessories, including a reflex level gauge and isolation cover, are available with the pump. Refer to the documentation supplied with the pump for detailed installation and maintenance procedures.

