Minnesota Special Engineer Boiler License Practice Exam

All steam traps will prevent steam from passing through them but allow what to pass?

1. Only air

2. Dirt, air, and condensate

3. Only dirt

4. Water vapor

The correct answer is: Dirt, air, and condensate

The correct answer emphasizes that steam traps are designed to allow the passage of condensate and air while preventing steam from escaping. Specifically, steam traps primarily function to remove water that has condensed from steam (condensate) while ensuring that the live steam is retained within the system for effective heating. In addition to condensate, steam traps can also allow small amounts of air to pass through. This is important because the presence of air can lead to inefficiencies in heating systems, causing issues such as corrosion and decreased heat transfer efficiency. By allowing air and condensate to pass while preventing steam escape, steam traps maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of the steam system. The other options incorrectly suggest that steam traps have different operational characteristics. For instance, stating that they only allow air or dirt implies a misunderstanding of their primary purpose, which centers on managing condensate and maintaining system pressure. Thus, recognizing that all steam traps permit the passage of condensate and air is vital for understanding their functionality in steam systems.