How can condensation losses in steam be avoided?

Using superheated steam effectively prevents condensation losses because it is steam that has been heated beyond its saturation temperature. When steam is superheated, it remains in a gaseous state, which ensures that there’s no moisture formation during its journey through the piping system or while it is being used for heating purposes. This means that the steam can transfer heat more efficiently without the risk of becoming liquid and causing issues such as corrosion or thermal inefficiencies.

On the other hand, wet steam, which contains a mixture of water and steam, inherently has the potential to condense, leading to losses. Utilizing high-pressure steam can help minimize condensation losses but it does not entirely eliminate the risk of moisture presence, especially as the steam travels through cooler areas of the system. Heating steam to saturation temperature is similar in that it also does not ensure that the steam remains in a gaseous state, leading to potential condensation as temperatures drop. Hence, superheated steam stands out as the best method to avoid condensation losses.