---
title: Swagelok Advice on Flash Steam, how to calculate its cost and prevent
description: This Swagelok article reviews common causes of flash steam, how to calculate its cost, and proven ways to address it. Preview and download (free).
---

[**510-933-6200**](tel:510-933-6200)         [tel:510-933-6200](tel:510-933-6200)[Sales & Support](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/ask)         [Locations](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/locations)         [Login](https://products.swagelok.com/en/login)

[**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/2487715)     [**](https://twitter.com/swageloknorcal)     [**](https://www.facebook.com/109293642424443)     [**](https://www.instagram.com/swageloknorcal)

[![Swagelok Northern California | 2020](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ARCHIVE/Swagelok%20Template%20Assets/img/email-logo-swagelok-280x74.png?width=151&height=40&name=email-logo-swagelok-280x74.png "Swagelok Northern California | 2020")](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/)

- #### [Engineering Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services)
  
    - [Assembly Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly) 
          - [Analytical Subsystems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/analytical-subsystems)
          - [Fluid System Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/design)
          - [Gas Distribution Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/gas-distribution)
          - [Grab Sampling Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/grab-sampling)
          - [Hose Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/hose)
          - [Mechanical Seal Support](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/seal-support)
          - [Regulator Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/regulators)
          - [Tube Bending](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/tube-bending)
    - [Onsite Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite) 
          - [Compressed Gas Leak Detection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/leak-detection)
          - [Fluid System Evaluation](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/fluid-system)
          - [Gas Distribution Program](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/gas-distribution)
          - [Hose Advisory](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/hose)
          - [Sampling System Evaluation](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/sampling-system)
          - [Steam System Audit](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/steam)
          - [Virtual Option](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/virtual)
    - [Support Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support) 
          - [Choosing & Ordering](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/selection)
          - [Fulfilling & Implementing](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/fulfillment)
          - [Managing Inventory](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/managed-inventory)
          - [Renting Tools & Equipment](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/rentals)
    - [Training Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/events)
- #### [Product Lines](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/products)
  
    - [Fittings](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/fittings) 
          - [Gaugeable Preswaging Tool](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gaugeable-preswaging-tool-instructions)
    - [Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/valves) 
          - [Control Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/fugitive-emissions-control-valve-snc)
          - [High-Temperature Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/high-temperature-valve-northern-california-snc)
          - [Industrial Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industrial-valve-applications-california-refineries-snc)
    - [Hose](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/hose) 
          - [Thermal Management Materials](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/thermal-management-materials-snc)
    - [Med/High Pressure](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-pressure-control-equipment-snc)
    - [Regulators](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/pressure-regulators) 
          - [Regulator Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/pressure-regulator-assemblies)
          - [Gas Regulator Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-regulator-design-snc)
          - [Types of Pressure Regulators](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/types-pressure-regulators-northern-california-snc)
    - [Gas Distribution](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-a-gas-distribution-management-system-snc) 
          - [Gas Panels](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/know-these-gas-panel-design-basics-to-choose-the-right-system-snc)
          - [Design Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-panel-design-guide-snc)
          - [Gas Panel Manufacturers](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-panel-design-manufacturers-serving-northern-california-snc)
    - [Quick Connects](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/quick-connects)
    - [Measurement](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/measurement)
    - [Seal Support](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-systems) 
          - [Seal Support Types ](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/understanding-mechanical-seal-support-types-suitable-for-petrochem-refineries-snc)
          - [Troubleshooting Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-troubleshooting-guide-bay-area-refineries-snc)
          - [Auxillary Plan](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-the-best-auxiliary-plan-for-centrifugal-pumps-start-with-the-right-seal-plan-snc)
          - [Brand Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-mechanical-seal-support-brands-snc)
    - [Tubing](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/tubing)
    - [Filters](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/filters)
    - [Grab Sampling](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gss_p1) 
          - [Panel Applications](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/grab-sampling-panel-application-guide-snc)
          - [Industrial Sampling Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industrial-gas-sampling-guide-snc)
    - [Sample Cylinders](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sample-cylinders) 
          - [Sample Bomb Options](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sample-bomb-cylinder-options-oil-gas-northern-california-snc)
    - [Subsystems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/subsystems)
    - [Welding](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/welding)
    - [Miniature](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/miniature)
    - [Leak Prevention](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sealants)
- #### [Resources](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/resources)
  
    - [Assembly](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/assembly)
    - [Blog](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/blog)
    - [Case Studies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/case-studies)
    - [Certifications](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/certifications)
    - [Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/design)
    - [Downloads](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/downloads)
    - [Events](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/events)
    - [FAQs](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/faqs)
    - [How-to Videos](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/tips)
    - [Sampling](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sampling)
    - [Steam](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/steam)
    - [Videos](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/videos)
    - [Webinars](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/webinars)
- #### [About](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/about-us)
  
    - [Contact Us](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/ask)
    - [Customer Reviews](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/feedback)
    - [Customer Survey](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/survey)
    - [Industries](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industries) 
          - [Alt Fuel & Transport](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/clean-energy)
          - [Chem & Petrochem](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/petrochemical) 
                  - [Grab Sampling Assembly Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/grab-sampling-system-assembly-services-for-the-petrochem-industry-snc)
                  - [Seal Support Assembly Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-assembly-services-petrochem-industry-snc)
                  - [Seal Support Replacement Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-replacement-services-for-california-refineries-snc)
                  - [API Seal Flush Plans](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-among-api-seal-flush-plans-for-petrochem-refineries-snc)
                  - [Sample Bomb Assembly](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sample-bomb-assembly-services-northern-california-refineries-snc)
          - [Oil & Gas](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/oil-gas)
          - [Power](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/power)
          - [Semiconductor](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor) 
                  - [Auto Changeover Gas Manifold](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/auto-changeover-manifold-semiconductor-northern-california-snc)
                  - [Components for Fab Equipment](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor-fab-equipment-snc)
                  - [Equipment Design & Fabrication](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor-manufacturing-equipment-design-fabrication-snc)
                  - [Fabrication Challenges](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor-fabrication-challenges-snc)
                  - [Gas Delivery Systems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor-gas-delivery-systems-snc)
                  - [New Technologies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/thermal-management-challenges-new-technologies-snc)
                  - [Orbital Welding Training](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor-orbital-welding-training-tips-snc)
                  - [Selecting Gas Delivery Systems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-delivery-system-semiconductor-northern-california-snc)
                  - [Thermal Management Solutions](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/thermal-management-solutions-snc)
    - [Join Our Team](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/jobs)
    - [Mission](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/commitment)
    - [Locations/Hours](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/locations)
    - [Service Area](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/area)
    - [Social](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/social)
    - [Swagelok for Everything](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/if-only)
    - [Why Swagelok?](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/quality)
- #### [Shop](https://products.swagelok.com/en/)
  
    - [Fittings](https://products.swagelok.com/en/fittings/c/100?clp=true)
    - [Valves](https://products.swagelok.com/en/valves/c/200?clp=true)
    - [Regulators](https://products.swagelok.com/en/regulators/c/300?clp=true)
    - [Hoses and Flexible Tubing](https://products.swagelok.com/en/hoses-flexible-tubing/c/700?clp=true)
    - [Quick Connects](https://products.swagelok.com/valves/quick-connects/c/206?clp=true)
    - [Filters](https://products.swagelok.com/en/filters/c/400?clp=true)
    - [Sample Cylinders](https://products.swagelok.com/en/sample-cylinders/c/1000?clp=true)
    - [Welding System](https://products.swagelok.com/en/welding-system/c/1200?clp=true)
    - [Leak Detectors, Lubricants, and Sealants](https://products.swagelok.com/en/leak-detectors-lubricants-sealants/c/900?clp=true)
    - [Tubing and Tube Accessories](https://products.swagelok.com/en/tubing-tube-accessories/c/800?clp=true)
    - [Analytical Instrumentation](https://products.swagelok.com/en/analytical-instrumentation/c/500)
    - [Measurement](https://products.swagelok.com/en/measurement-devices/c/600?clp=true)

[![Contact Us](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/98649/6075ca9e-2f86-4ec5-9ede-e047ed5df29a.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/98649/6075ca9e-2f86-4ec5-9ede-e047ed5df29a)

**Swagelok Northern California**

**Menu**

** **

- [Home](https://northerncal.swagelok.com)
- [Customers](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industries) 
    - [Chem & Petrochem](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/petrochemical)
    - [Clean Energy](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/clean-energy)
    - [Oil & Gas](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/oil-gas)
    - [Power](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/power)
    - [Semiconductor](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/semiconductor)
    - [Customer Survey](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/survey)
    - [Simplifying Operations](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support) 
          - [Fulfilling & Implementing](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/fulfillment)
          - [Managing Inventory](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/managed-inventory)
          - [Renting Tools & Equipment](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/rentals)
- [Optimizing Your Systems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite) 
    - [Fluid System Evaluation](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/fluid-system)
    - [Compressed Gas Leak Detection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/leak-detection)
    - [Gas Distribution Program](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/gas-distribution)
    - [Hose Advisory](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/hose)
    - [Sampling System Evaluation](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/sampling-system)
    - [Steam System Audit](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/steam)
    - [Virtual Option](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite/virtual)
- [Assembling Your Equipment](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly) 
    - [Fluid System Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/design)
    - [Analytical Subsystems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/analytical-subsystems)
    - [Gas Distribution Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/gas-distribution)
    - [Grab Sampling Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/grab-sampling)
    - [Hose Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/hose)
    - [Mechanical Seal Support](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/seal-support)
    - [Regulator Assemblies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/regulators)
    - [Tube Bending](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/tube-bending)
    - [Equipment Assembly Resources](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/assembly)
- [Training Your Team](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/events)
- [Local Product Guides](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/products) 
    - [Choosing & Ordering](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support/selection)
    - [Fitting Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/fittings) 
          - [Gaugeable Preswaging Tool](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gaugeable-preswaging-tool-instructions)
    - [Valve Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/valves) 
          - [Control Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/fugitive-emissions-control-valve-snc)
          - [High-Temperature Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/high-temperature-valve-northern-california-snc)
          - [Industrial Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industrial-valve-applications-california-refineries-snc)
    - [Hose Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/hose) 
          - [Thermal Management Materials](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/thermal-management-materials-snc)
    - [Med/High Pressure](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-pressure-control-equipment-snc)
    - [Regulator Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/pressure-regulators) 
          - [Regulator Assemblies ](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/pressure-regulator-assemblies)
          - [Gas Regulator Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-regulator-design-snc)
          - [Types of Pressure Regulators](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/types-pressure-regulators-northern-california-snc)
    - [Gas Distribution Optimization](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly/gas-distribution) 
          - [Gas Panels](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/know-these-gas-panel-design-basics-to-choose-the-right-system-snc)
          - [Design Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-panel-design-guide-snc)
          - [Gas Panel Manufacturers](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/gas-panel-design-manufacturers-serving-northern-california-snc)
    - [Quick Connect Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/quick-connects)
    - [Measurement Devices](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/measurement)
    - [Seal Support Optimization](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-systems) 
          - [Seal Support Types ](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/understanding-mechanical-seal-support-types-suitable-for-petrochem-refineries-snc)
          - [Troubleshooting Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/mechanical-seal-support-troubleshooting-guide-bay-area-refineries-snc)
          - [Auxillary Plan](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-the-best-auxiliary-plan-for-centrifugal-pumps-start-with-the-right-seal-plan-snc)
          - [Brand Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/choosing-mechanical-seal-support-brands-snc)
    - [Tubing](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/tubing)
    - [Filters](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/filters)
    - [Grab Sampling Optimization](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/grab-sampling-systems) 
          - [Panel Applications](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/grab-sampling-panel-application-guide-snc)
          - [Industrial Sampling Guide](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/industrial-gas-sampling-guide-snc)
    - [Sample Cylinder Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sample-cylinders) 
          - [Sample Bomb Options](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sample-bomb-cylinder-options-oil-gas-northern-california-snc)
    - [Subsystems](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/subsystems)
    - [Welding System Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/welding)
    - [MPC Selection](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/miniature)
    - [Leak Prevention](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sealants)
- [Resources](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/resources) 
    - [Blog](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/blog)
    - [Case Studies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/case-studies)
    - [Certifications](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/certifications)
    - [Design](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/design)
    - [Downloads](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/downloads)
    - [Events](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/events)
    - [FAQs](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/faqs)
    - [How-to Videos](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/tips)
    - [Sampling](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/sampling)
    - [Steam](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/steam)
    - [Videos](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/videos)
    - [Webinars](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/webinars)
- [Contact](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/about-us) 
    - [Capabilities Overview (NEW)](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/capabilities)
    - [Contact Us](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/ask)
    - [Join Our Team](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/jobs)
    - [Mission](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/commitment)
    - [Locations/Hours](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/locations)
    - [Service Area](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/area)
    - [Social](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/social)
    - [Swagelok for Everything](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/if-only)
    - [Why Swagelok?](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/quality)
- [Shop](https://products.swagelok.com/en/) 
    - [Fittings](https://products.swagelok.com/en/fittings/c/100?clp=true)
    - [Valves](https://products.swagelok.com/en/valves/c/200?clp=true)
    - [Regulators](https://products.swagelok.com/en/regulators/c/300?clp=true)
    - [Hoses and Flexible Tubing](https://products.swagelok.com/en/hoses-flexible-tubing/c/700?clp=true)
    - [Quick Connects](https://products.swagelok.com/valves/quick-connects/c/206?clp=true)
    - [Filters](https://products.swagelok.com/en/filters/c/400?clp=true)
    - [Sample Cylinders](https://products.swagelok.com/en/sample-cylinders/c/1000?clp=true)
    - [Welding System](https://products.swagelok.com/en/welding-system/c/1200?clp=true)
    - [Leak Detectors, Lubricants, and Sealants](https://products.swagelok.com/en/leak-detectors-lubricants-sealants/c/900?clp=true)
    - [Tubing and Tube Accessories](https://products.swagelok.com/en/tubing-tube-accessories/c/800?clp=true)
    - [Analytical Instrumentation](https://products.swagelok.com/en/analytical-instrumentation/c/500)
    - [Measurement](https://products.swagelok.com/en/measurement-devices/c/600?clp=true)

[![Message Us](https://hubspot-no-cache-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/default/98649/684819c2-6ac5-4c91-b6e6-06e56420f872.png)](https://hubspot-cta-redirect-na2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/cta/redirect/98649/684819c2-6ac5-4c91-b6e6-06e56420f872)

# Flash Steam: Are You Venting (Flash) Steam to Atmosphere?

#### ![best_practice-_are_you_venting_flash_steam_to_atmosphere](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/hs-fs/hub/98649/file-2500328451.png?width=300&name=file-2500328451.png)Get this article to review why flash occurs, how to calculate its cost, and proven ways to address it.

For any given saturated steam or condensate pressure, there can be only the specific values listed in the steam tables for temperature, sensible heat, latent heat, and specific volume.

Condensate at a given pressure, discharged into an area of lower pressure, automatically adjusts the condensate temperature to the saturated conditions and other values at the lower pressure.

This phenomenon is called “flashing” and the resultant steam is called “flash steam”. A specific amount of heat energy is released for each lower pressure condition and the heat energy that is release causes an effect that is called “flash steam”, which is a percentage of condensate being re-evaporated into flash steam at the lower pressure.

Review: High pressure condensate (higher energy content) discharging through a steam trap, control valve, or other device to a lower pressure area (condensate return line, flash tank, or other system), the condensate liquid temperature must be at the saturated conditions of the lower pressure. To reduce the temperature of the condensate at the lower pressure, a percentage of the condensate is flashed into the steam...

To get this article as a PDF, please fill the form then check your email.

### Get this article

Swagelok Northern California

Swagelok Northern California is a locally owned sales and service center of Swagelok, a company celebrating 75 years in business. We have locations in Fremont and Sunnyvale, CA (USA). Phone: [**510-933-6200**](tel:5109336200).

[Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services)

- [Assembly Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/assembly)
- [Onsite Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/onsite)
- [Support Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/services/support)
- [Training Services](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/events)

[Catalogs](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/products)

- [Fittings](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/fittings)
- [Valves](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/valves)
- [Hose](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/hose)
- [All](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/products)

[Resources](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/downloads)

- [Case Studies](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/case-studies)
- [FAQs](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/faqs)
- [Videos](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/videos)
- [All](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/resources)

[About](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/about-us)

- [Contact Us](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/ask)
- [Locations](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/locations)
- [Services Area](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/area)
- [All](https://northerncal.swagelok.com/about-us)

Copyright © 2011-2025 Swagelok Northern California. All Rights Reserved.

[Login](https://products.swagelok.com/en/login)      [Locator](https://www.swagelok.com/en/locate-a-sales-service-center)      [Safety](https://www.swagelok.com/en/Safe-Product-Selection)      [Legal](https://www.swagelok.com/en/Legal-notice)      [swagelok.com](https://products.swagelok.com/en)