What Does
Process Steam System Mean?
A process steam system is an efficient, energy saving system used by the manufacturing industry, as steam is regarded as a cost-effective energy source. The production of steam through this system is among the topmost energy-intense processes, especially in the field of manufacturing.
Steam as a source of energy offers many advantages, such as the following:
- Easy transport
- Low levels of toxicity
- High capacity to produce heat
- Higher efficiency
- Reduced costs in production
Process steam systems are susceptible to corrosion and scale buildup in heaters and water pipes due to the continuous presence of water. Left untreated, this can lead to reduced efficiency and eventual failure of the system.
Corrosionpedia Explains Process Steam System
Steam has the unique ability to retain remarkable levels of energy, making it a highly recommended transport medium for energy. In the process steam system, energy is derived from the steam through mechanical means or via process heating or turbine.
In this system, almost all the heat within steam is considered latent. Hence, massive energy quantities can be efficiently transferred under stable temperature, which is highly beneficial in almost all heating process applications. Steam that is produced via this system is also utilized in modifying natural gas to be used in the production of nitrogen fertilizer.
Moreover, process steam systems are also considered helpful in terms of regulating temperatures and pressures of various chemical processes as well as other applications like drying, contaminant stripping as well as a variety of chemical processes.
To preserve its function and usefulness, operators should ensure that there is proper regulation, balance, insulation and condensate drainage in the system.