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Steam Trap Operation Types

The operation type you assign to a steam trap tells the platform how to evaluate that trap for Unexpected Cold detection. Choosing the right type prevents false alerts and ensures the traps that matter most generate actionable events.

Operation Type Comparison​

Operation TypeWhen steam is expectedUnexpected Cold detection
ContinuousAt all timesFires any time the trap goes steam-off
SeasonalOnly within the configured seasonal window (start date through end date)Fires only when the trap goes steam-off inside that window
IntermittentVaries — the trap cycles on and off by designNever fires — the off state is expected

When to Use Each Type​

Continuous is the right choice for traps that are expected to be hot whenever the steam system is running — boiler drain traps, main steam line drip legs, and similar always-on applications. Any unexpected steam-off on these traps is actionable.

Seasonal is appropriate for traps that only operate during a defined period each year, such as building heating circuits, unit heaters, or process heat-trace runs that are intentionally shut down during warmer months. See Seasonal Configuration for how to set the start and end dates.

Intermittent applies to process traps that cycle hot and cold as part of normal production — autoclave drains, batch process condensate removal, and similar applications where the steam-off state is not a fault condition. Assigning this type silences Unexpected Cold detection entirely for that trap.

How to Set the Operation Type​

  1. Open Shoplogix IMS and navigate to the trap detail page.
  2. Open the trap configuration panel.
  3. Select the operation type from the available options.
  4. Save — the change takes effect on the next evaluation.

What the Operation Type Does Not Affect​

The operation type controls only Unexpected Cold detection. Blowthrough and leaking detection runs independently of operation type and is not suppressed by setting a trap to Seasonal or Intermittent.