Return condensate as soon as it is formed

Many plants include condensate collection tanks as part of their condensate recovery network design. These tanks serve as collection tanks where condensate is first stored and then pumped using a level control system. This is usually a requirement when recovery is done by centrifugal pumps.

However, in such systems, a significant amount of heat is lost from the stored condensate due to radiation before it reaches the feed water tank. The heat loss is further intensified as most of these tanks are open to atmosphere and uninsulated.

Typically, the condensate return temperature from such systems is about 70-75°C i.e. an almost 25-30°C drop in temperature. This drop in temperature also means a significant loss of energy that could otherwise be utilised. This diminishes the benefits of returning condensate.

Hence, condensate should be returned as soon as it is formed in the system. Ideally, a mechanical condensate recovery pump is used for this purpose because it efficiently returns the condensate while minimising energy loss and preventing flash steam from being wasted.