Tiivistymättömät

Tiivistymättömät is a Finnish term that translates to "non-condensables" in English. It refers to gases or vapors that do not liquefy or solidify under the prevailing conditions of temperature and pressure in a system. In many industrial processes, such as steam systems or chemical reactions, the presence of non-condensables can be detrimental. They can reduce the efficiency of heat transfer by forming an insulating layer on heat exchange surfaces, leading to increased energy consumption and slower processing times.

The accumulation of non-condensables can also cause pressure imbalances and corrosion within equipment. Identifying and removing these substances is therefore crucial for maintaining optimal system performance and longevity. Common non-condensables in steam systems include air, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. Their removal is typically achieved through devices called steam traps, which are designed to vent non-condensable gases while retaining steam. In other applications, different methods like purging or vacuum systems might be employed. Understanding the nature and impact of non-condensables is a key aspect of process engineering and maintenance.