Steam Theory Fundamentals

Steam is generated by adding enough heat energy to water to change it from a liquid to a gas phase. Latent heat is the heat energy required to accomplish this phase change. The latent heat in the steam can then be used to transfer heat to lower temperature surfaces. When saturated steam gives up its heat, it changes into liquid water called condensate that is at the same temperature as the steam. This module lists safety guidelines for steam generation and distribution systems, describes how steam can be used to transfer heat, and describes the relationship between steam pressure and saturated steam temperature.

•List safety hazards and safe work practices associated with steam generation and distribution systems •Define the terms "latent heat," "superheat," "desuperheating," and "condensate" •Explain how steam is created in a boiler •Describe how steam can be used to transfer heat •Explain why superheat is sometimes intentionally added to fresh steam •Describe direct contact and indirect contact type desuperheaters •Describe the relationship between steam pressure and saturated steam temperature