Which device is primarily used to remove condensate from lines and recover it for reuse in the boiler?

• A. Steam Trap
• B. Deaerator
• C. Attemperator
• D. Burner Valve

Answer: (A)

Removing condensate from steam lines and returning it to the boiler is the job of a steam trap. Steam traps drain condensate from the piping while keeping steam in the line, so the collected condensate can flow back into the condensate return system or boiler feedwater. This recovers heat energy and water, improving boiler efficiency and reducing the need for fresh make-up water. The other devices have different roles: a deaerator removes dissolved gases from feedwater to prevent corrosion; an attemperator adjusts steam temperature by injecting water; a burner valve controls fuel to the burner. So the device that primarily handles condensate removal and reuse is the steam trap.