Analysis of energy saving potential by condensate return

Abstract

Condensate is a term given to a liquid when steam loses its latent heat energy. In a heating process, when steam transfers part of its energy, known as latent heat to the process being heated, condensate is formed with a portion of energy known as sensible heat energy. Normally, the condensate temperature is the same as the steam temperature at the same working pressure. Therefore, the amount of energy content in the condensate is directly related to the condensate mass and directly related to the temperature difference between the steam and feed water. In an idealized system, all the steam produced can be returned as condensate but due to loses and leakages, about 60-70% condensate return is possible. In the past, condensate return has not been considered feasible but with increasing prices of fuel and uncertain price changes, energy saving approaches like condensate recovery in particular are a very economic and a cleaner production method. Condensate recovery also implies reduced costs during water treatment and pumping to the boiler house at the facility.