An Introduction to Steam Traps

A simple, economical steam system consists of certain basic components:

• a boiler that generates steam
• piping that delivers steam from the boiler and returns condensate to the boiler
• a heat exchanger where heat is transferred to perform work
• a steam trap

A steam trap is a device that automatically senses the difference between steam, non-condensable gases and condensate. It assures retention of steam within the system, while removing condensate and non-condensables.

There are several different kinds of steam trap designs, varying according to application demands and requirements. In this section we'll learn how to determine which trap is needed for a specific job.