A Steam Trap is an automatically operated valve that opens for condensate, air and carbon dioxide and closes for steam. Without steam traps the condensate would form in distribution piping, creating problems.

They are typically classified into 3 main group types:

Thermodynamic steam trap
Simple construction
Installation in any position
Compatible for high pressure
Good response to load fluctuation

Thermostatic steam trap
Negligible steam losses
Installation in any position
Excellent air venting
Fair back pressure tolerance

Mechanical inverted bucket steam trap
Negligible steam losses
Immediate response to load fluctuation
Excellent back pressure tolerance
Resists water hammering