What is the purpose of a steam trap?

The primary purpose of a steam trap is to drain condensate from steam lines. In steam systems, steam transforms into water (condensate) when it releases heat. If this condensate is not removed from the system, it can cause damage or inefficiency. A steam trap is designed to allow the condensate to exit the steam lines while preventing the escape of steam. This ensures that the steam system operates effectively and maintains optimal performance by removing water that could cause water hammer or other issues.

While other functions such as regulating steam temperature and preventing backflow are important in different contexts, they do not specifically define the main role of a steam trap, which is fundamentally concerned with the management of condensate. Furthermore, increasing pressure is not a function of a steam trap; instead, it focuses on maintaining the system's integrity and efficiency by managing the condensate effectively.