Reliability-Centered Excellence



ContextHospital leaders

Steam systems distribute heat from boilers for commercial applications including hospitals, schools and public buildings, etc. (ranging from a few psig to 150 psig).

Steam distribution systems are equipped with steam traps, i.e., automatic valves that remove condensate, air, and other non-condensable gases, while minimizing steam loss.  Reliable, effective steam traps are integral to reliable steam systems.

All steam traps are susceptible to dirt contamination, hampering performance thereby requiring periodic inspection and cleaning to ensure they’re doing their job. But conventional steam traps are also prone to fatigue and failure causing excess steam to escape increasing the amount of steam that must be generated to meet customer requirements.

Higher energy costs are only one of the problems associated with underperforming steam traps. Fatigue-prone equipment can generate a range of non-productive costs:

  • Fuel and related (water and chemical) costs
  • Operations & maintenance, i.e. labor charges
  • Product/component replacement and related costs
  • Finance charges, i.e. loan interest
  • Environmental impact

Reliability Play

At SMS, we know that each of these cost drivers can be mitigated through improved product design and manufacturing techniques.  This approach, known as reliability engineering, fosters fresh thinking and breakthroughs in product design.

Using this approach, we at SMS developed ultra-reliable TECH-FITT steam traps that boost energy efficiency over an extended lifespan thereby minimizing costs.  The unique combination of reliability and efficiency translates into substantial functional and financial benefits.

Durable, high performing TECH-FITT solutions reduce the risk of service disruption while allowing customers to concentrate resources on core activities.  In addition, SMS products come with industry-best warranties.

Full-scale conversion projects deliver accelerated payback dividends — often less than 2 years — making them great candidates for bolstering energy savings programs.

» Let’s talk about how to drive the Reliability Excellence message to your customers.