What is the purpose of a heat exchanger in a steam system?

A heat exchanger serves the crucial role of transferring heat between fluids without direct contact between them. In a steam system, it allows for efficient thermal energy exchange, playing a key role in maintaining system efficiency and effectiveness. For example, in a power generation context, steam can pass through a heat exchanger where it transfers its heat to water or another fluid, encouraging the conversion of that water into steam as well, which can then be used to drive turbines.

This function is vital in various applications, such as preheating water before it enters a boiler, ultimately improving the overall thermal efficiency of the system. By enhancing heat transfer, heat exchangers help minimize energy losses and ensure that steam systems operate at optimal performance levels.

In this context, controlling fuel flow, increasing steam pressure, or measuring temperature do not address the core function of a heat exchanger, as these roles pertain to other components within the steam system.