A steam trap is a device used to discharge condensates and non-condensable gases with a negligible consumption or loss of live steam. Most steam traps are nothing more than automatic valves. They open, close or modulate automatically. The three important functions of steam traps are: 1. Discharge condensate as soon as it is formed (unless it is desirable to use the sensible heat of the liquid condensate) 2. Have a negligible steam consumption (i.e. being energy efficient) 3. Have the capability of discharging air and other non-condensable gases.