What happens to the vacuum reading if the loop seal is lost?

When the loop seal is lost, the vacuum reading decreases and may eventually be lost entirely. A loop seal is a hydronic feature in a steam system that prevents the escape of steam and helps maintain a consistent level of vacuum pressure. If the loop seal is compromised, for example, due to a failure or blockage, vapor can escape, leading to a drop in vacuum pressure.

The vacuum reading fundamentally relies on a tight system to function optimally. If the integrity of the loop seal is compromised, air can enter the system more easily, which disrupts the vacuum. Consequently, the reading on the vacuum gauge will reflect this drop in pressure. If sufficient air enters the system, it may even lead to a full loss of vacuum, hence the reading could be completely lost.

Maintaining the loop seal is critical for operational efficiency in steam systems, as it plays a vital role in maintaining the necessary vacuum and ensuring the effective operation of heating and other processes relying on steam.