Class 5 Boiler Practice Exam

What device is placed on a steam line and the outlet of a heating unit to prevent the exit of condensate?

1. Steam trap

2. Condensate pump

3. Pressure regulator

4. Air vent

The correct answer is: Steam trap

A steam trap is the correct device placed on a steam line and at the outlet of a heating unit to prevent the exit of condensate. Its primary function is to allow the passage of steam while blocking condensate and air from escaping, ensuring that steam efficiently heats the system without losing energy through unnecessary condensate loss. This is crucial in maintaining proper heating performance since the presence of condensate can lead to water hammer, reduced efficiency, and potential damage to equipment. Steam traps operate based on the principle of differences in temperature and pressure, allowing them to differentiate between steam and condensate. The other options serve different purposes. A condensate pump is used to remove condensate from heating units and move it back to the boiler or disposal, which is not aligned with the function of preventing the exit of condensate. A pressure regulator manages the pressure of steam within a system but does not address the management of condensate specifically. An air vent removes trapped air in the steam system to optimize heating efficiency, but it doesn’t prevent condensate from exiting. Thus, the steam trap is uniquely suited to fulfill the requirement of retaining condensate while allowing steam to function effectively within the system.