Steam Basics - Why should condensate be removed quickly?
The quick removal of condensate prevents the backing up of condensate and
the blanketing of heating surfaces which would slow down the heating process
and usually reduces efficiency. In giving up heat to the process the
steam turns back into condensate. If we allow this condensate to collect
it will eventually fill the steam space and keep the hot steam away from the
heat exchanging surfaces. This of course slows down the process until
there is barely any heating done at all. If this happens in heating
coils and steam cannot reach the heating surface, it seriously impairs the
heating ability of the coils.