Mueller Steam Specialty Launches Strainers with Differential Pressure Monitoring, Automated Blowdown Options

Mueller Steam Specialty, a Watts brand, announced the availability of differential pressure monitoring on duplex basket and wye strainers, with automated blowdown functionality also available on select wye strainers. These expanded smart and connected capabilities are designed to help facility and process teams maintain system performance and reduce unplanned downtime.

In traditional strainer applications, debris buildup can go unnoticed between manual inspections, leading to restricted flow, pressure loss and increased risk of downstream equipment damage. The latest smart strainer enhancements address this challenge by providing real-time visibility into strainer conditions and enabling more proactive maintenance strategies.

Pressure sensors come pre-installed on Mueller Steam duplex basket strainers and are available on wye strainers when specified at the time of order. When paired with an add-on connection kit, the system enables continuous differential pressure monitoring, tracks basket fill levels and transmits alerts and notifications to a facility’s BAS/BMS or Watts’ Nexa system, an intelligent water management platform that combines connected hardware (sensors and Watts equipment), cloud software and water systems expertise.

For wye strainers, automated blowdown is available via an optional motorized ball valve. When debris accumulation reaches a pre-configured threshold, the system can automatically flush the strainer basket into a pre-piped drain, with notifications sent to confirm the action. This capability helps support uninterrupted operation in HVAC and process water applications where maintaining consistent flow and pressure is critical.

These smart strainers are powered by a new, easy-to-configure sensor control monitor that provides local system status information through an integrated display, while also supporting connectivity to centralized monitoring platforms. By delivering greater visibility into strainer performance and automating maintenance tasks for select applications, the system helps reduce manual inspections and supports more predictable maintenance planning.