Kondenzátum

Kondenzátum refers to a liquid that forms when water vapor in the air cools down and changes back into its liquid state. This process is known as condensation. It commonly occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cooler surface. Examples include water droplets forming on the outside of a cold glass on a warm day, or the fogging of bathroom mirrors after a hot shower.

In industrial and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, kondenzátum is a byproduct of operation. For instance, air conditioners and refrigerators cool air by removing moisture. This moisture then condenses on the cold coils and is collected as kondenzátum. Similarly, in steam heating systems, steam condenses back into water as it releases its heat, and this condensed water is known as condensate.

The management of kondenzátum is important. In HVAC systems, it needs to be drained away to prevent water damage and mold growth. In steam systems, condensate recovery systems can be used to return the water to the boiler, saving energy and water. The quality of kondenzátum can vary; it is generally pure water but can pick up impurities from the systems it passes through.