What device is installed in steam lines to drain condensate while preventing steam escape?

The device installed in steam lines to drain condensate while preventing steam escape is the steam trap. A steam trap functions by allowing condensate—liquid water that forms when steam cools—to flow out of the steam line while blocking the passage of steam. This is crucial for efficient steam system operation, as it maintains pressure and temperature control within the system and prevents the formation of water hammer, which can cause damage.

The steam trap works based on temperature differences or other mechanisms to sense the presence of condensate versus steam, ensuring that only the condensate is expelled. By doing so, it optimizes energy use and system performance. This balancing act is essential in various applications, including heating systems and industrial processes that rely on controlled steam flow.

Other devices mentioned have different functions. Steam ejectors are used for vacuum generation or for mixing steam with air; water separators aim to remove water from gas flows and are not specific to steam systems; condenstae pumps are designed to remove condensate but do not typically prevent steam escape as efficiently or as specifically as a steam trap does.