Steam traps

Steam generated by a boiler contains heat energy which is used to heat the product. When steam loses it
energy by heating the product, condensate is formed. Also, a part of energy contained by steam is lost
through radiation losses from pipes and fittings. After losing this heat, steam gets converted into
condensate. If this condensate is not drained immediately as soon as it forms, it can reduce the operating
efficiency of the system by slowing the heat transfer to the process. Presence of condensate in a steam
system can also cause physical damage due to water hammer or corrosion.

As the condensate builds up, it can form a solid slug of incompressible water traveling at high velocities .
When the slug of water is suddenly stopped by a pipe bend, fitting or a valve, it can result in mechanical
damage to the pipe or fitting.

Types of steam traps: Based on working principle

NOTE:-WATER HAMMERING
The hammer effect (or water hammer) can harm valves, pipes, and gauges in any
water, oil, or gas application. It occurs when the liquid pressure is turned from an on
position to an off position abruptly.

When water or a liquid is flowing at full capacity there is a normal, even sound of the
flow. You can tell when water hammer occurs because there will typically be a big
thump sound or a series of thudding noises.

That noise is the impact of the entire train of water coming to a quick halt creating a
shock wave.
In the case of pressure gauges, this shock causes a spike that can damage the gauge
even if the gauge is the correct pressure range for the particular flow application.