Sub-Product

Condensate is the hot water formed when steam transitions from vapor to liquid state after releasing its latent heat energy during heating processes. This transformation occurs in various parts of the steam system, such as heat exchangers, radiators, or pipelines, where steam transfers its heat to products or equipment being heated. The condensate temperature at the point of phase change equals the steam temperature because only latent heat is lost while sensible heat remains.

Key Characteristics

• Forms at steam's saturation temperature
• Contains significant sensible heat energy
• Essentially distilled water, making it ideal for boiler feedwater
• Can produce flash steam when pressure drops
• Must be continuously removed from steam systems for efficient operation

The management and recovery of condensate is crucial for system efficiency, as it contains valuable thermal energy and treated water that can be reused in the steam generation process.