Describe the purpose of a steam trap and what could happen if it fails closed?

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Multiple Choice

Describe the purpose of a steam trap and what could happen if it fails closed?

A steam trap’s job is to remove condensate from steam lines and equipment while allowing the live steam to pass. This keeps the system dry enough for efficient heat transfer and helps prevent pressure surges. If the trap fails closed, condensate builds up in pipes and on heat-transfer surfaces. Liquid water in contact with the heating surface carries less heat away than steam, so heat transfer drops and energy is wasted. The trapped condensate can also form a water-hammer slug as steam pushes or releases it, causing pressure shocks that can damage piping and equipment.

A steam trap’s job is to remove condensate from steam lines and equipment while allowing the live steam to pass. This keeps the system dry enough for efficient heat transfer and helps prevent pressure surges. If the trap fails closed, condensate builds up in pipes and on heat-transfer surfaces. Liquid water in contact with the heating surface carries less heat away than steam, so heat transfer drops and energy is wasted. The trapped condensate can also form a water-hammer slug as steam pushes or releases it, causing pressure shocks that can damage piping and equipment.

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