Steam traps separate the steam system from the condensate system. Steam traps are mechanical devices that can fail in the open or closed position. When a steam trap fails in the open position, the energy that was added at the boiler is lost into the condensate return system. The energy contained in steam is only utilized when it condenses in a heat exchanger and releases its latent heat to the intended process. It is at this point the steam trap should allow this condensate into the condensate return system. A steam trap that fails in the closed position does not allow the condensate to enter the condensate return system. This condensate will sub cool (cool below saturation temperature) in the steam line or heat exchanger and form carbonic acid which will attack the piping and its components, however, there is not an energy loss associated with steam traps failed in the closed position. Routine steam trap testing is required to identify the faulty steam traps for repair or replacement.
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