Minnesota Special Engineer Boiler License Practice Exam 2026 - Free Boiler License Practice Questions and Study Guide

The function of a steam trap in a steam system is to efficiently remove condensate and non-condensable gases. As steam travels through piping, it naturally condenses when it loses heat. If this condensate is not removed, it can accumulate and cause water hammer or flooding in the system, leading to potential damage and inefficiencies.

Additionally, steam traps help in removing non-condensable gases, such as air, which can hinder the efficiency of the steam system by displacing the steam and reducing its effectiveness in heating applications. By efficiently venting these unwanted elements, steam traps contribute to maintaining optimal system performance and preventing operational issues.

The other options don't accurately describe the primary role of a steam trap. Stopping water from entering the boiler is managed through various safety and control systems, capturing steam for reuse does not align with the trap's function which is to let steam escape, and regulating steam pressure is a task typically managed by pressure relief valves or control valves, not steam traps. Thus, the essential role of a steam trap is clearly tied to the removal of condensate and non-condensable gases for better system efficiency.