In steam systems, a pigtail protects components from which condition?

In steam systems, a pigtail protects components from which condition?

• A. Condensation
• B. Absolute steam
• C. Overpressure
• D. Vibration

Answer: (B)

A pigtail provides a liquid-filled buffer between the steam line and a device, so the instrument is not exposed to hot, dry steam. The U-shaped bend traps condensate, creating a small water column that cools and cushions the incoming steam, protecting components from damage due to absolute (dry) steam. If the pigtail dries out, that protection is lost. So its purpose is to shield against dry, high-temperature steam, rather than primarily addressing condensation, overpressure, or vibration.

A pigtail provides a liquid-filled buffer between the steam line and a device, so the instrument is not exposed to hot, dry steam. The U-shaped bend traps condensate, creating a small water column that cools and cushions the incoming steam, protecting components from damage due to absolute (dry) steam. If the pigtail dries out, that protection is lost. So its purpose is to shield against dry, high-temperature steam, rather than primarily addressing condensation, overpressure, or vibration.