What is the purpose of a steam trap in a boiler system?

The purpose of a steam trap in a boiler system is to allow condensate and air to escape while preventing the loss of steam. A steam trap is a vital component in a steam heating system. It serves to discharge the condensate, which is water formed when steam cools down, along with non-condensable gases like air.

By allowing these to escape, the steam trap helps maintain the efficiency of the system by ensuring that steam is not wasted. If condensate were to accumulate in the system, it could lead to water hammer, reduced heating efficiency, and other operational issues. This makes the steam trap essential for effective and safe operation in steam systems.

The other potential answers do not accurately reflect the function of a steam trap. Maintaining water levels is typically the responsibility of a different system component, increasing boiler pressure is achieved through other means, and collecting combustible gases is not a function of a steam trap but rather a consideration for combustion and safety systems.