What is the primary function of steam traps?

• A. To remove condensate from lines and recover for reuse in the boiler
• B. To remove oxygen from steam
• C. To regulate steam pressure downstream
• D. To filter steam before use

Answer: (A)

Steam traps are the device that separates condensate from steam in piping and discharges that condensate while letting the live steam continue to the point of use. By removing the condensate, they keep the steam line from filling with water, prevent issues like water hammer, and allow the collected condensate to be returned to the boiler as reusable feedwater. This energy recovery lowers fuel use and water makeup. It’s not about removing oxygen from steam (that’s handled in feedwater treatment), nor about regulating downstream pressure (that’s the job of a valve), nor about filtering steam (that’s a separate filtration step). In short, the primary function is to remove condensate from lines and recover it for reuse in the boiler.