Condenswater

Condenswater, or condensate water, is water that forms when a vapor becomes a liquid. The term is used across engineering and environmental contexts to describe liquid water recovered from gas- or air-based processes, including steam systems, refrigeration loops, and atmospheric humidity.

Formation and sources: In industrial settings, steam condenses on cool surfaces and flows to condensate return lines; in air conditioning, condensate forms on coils; in nature, dew and fog yield atmospheric condensate. The composition varies: steam condensate generally has low dissolved solids but can be slightly acidic due to dissolved carbon dioxide; contaminants such as oils, rust, or rust particles may appear if piping is corroded.

Uses and treatment: Condenswater is routinely returned to boilers as boiler feedwater after treatment (deaeration, pH adjustment) to conserve energy. Non-industrial condenswater, such as dew or condensate from dehumidifiers, is typically used for non-potable purposes or disposed of, and should be treated if used for irrigation or human contact. Potable use requires certified purification.

Safety and handling: Collect in clean, dedicated lines; monitor for non-condensable gases and potential hydrocarbons; scalding risk with hot condensate; ensure backflow prevention; adhere to local regulations for disposal and reuse.

See also: condensation, condensate, boiler feedwater, dew point.