What is the purpose of a surge tank in a steam system?

The correct purpose of a surge tank in a steam system is to store excess condensate. Surge tanks are designed to accommodate fluctuations in steam supply and condensate return, which can occur due to changes in demand, operational variations, or interruptions in the steam supply. When there is a surplus of condensate, the surge tank temporarily holds this excess until it can be processed or returned to the steam generation system.

This function is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and reliability of a steam system, as it helps prevent potential operational issues such as water hammer, where sudden changes in water flow can cause damaging pressure surges in pipes. By providing a space for excess condensate, a surge tank contributes to the smooth operation and stability of the steam system by ensuring that the system can cope with varying flow rates without causing undue stress on the components.

In contrast, while a surge tank may influence certain aspects of pressure regulation, balancing reservoir pressure is not its primary function. It is not used primarily to cool steam, nor is it designed for filtering impurities, as its main role centers around managing the condensate produced in the steam cycle.