Dampterugwinning

Dampterugwinning is the recovery and reuse of steam in industrial processes to heat or power other process steps, rather than releasing it as waste. In a steam system, steam is produced in a boiler, used in process equipment, and condenses into condensate. Recovering condensate and, where possible, exhaust steam reduces fuel use and water consumption while preserving steam quality.

Typical techniques include condensate recovery with condensate receivers and traps, deaerators for feedwater, economizers that extract heat from flue gases, and steam turbines (back-pressure or condensing) that convert exhaust energy into electricity. Heat exchangers and district heating connections are also used to preheat feeds or supply heat elsewhere. In integrated plants, dampterugwinning can form part of a broader heat-recovery network.

Applications are common in power plants, refineries, chemical plants, pulp and paper mills, food processing, and district heating systems.

Benefits include lower fuel costs, reduced emissions, and improved water use and overall plant efficiency. Limitations include higher capital costs, maintenance needs, and the necessity of clean condensate and proper control to avoid issues such as corrosion or water hammer. Sufficient monitoring and appropriate system design are important for realizing the expected energy savings.