What problem can poor insulation lead to in a steam system?

In a steam system, poor insulation can lead to significant efficiency losses due to heat loss. When the insulation is insufficient or damaged, heat can escape from the steam pipes and vessels, leading to a decrease in the temperature and pressure of the steam. This results in the system needing to work harder to maintain the desired operating conditions, ultimately consuming more energy.

Heat loss can reduce the overall efficiency of the steam system because the steam that should be delivering energy to do work is instead being lost to the environment. This not only increases the energy consumption but can also result in higher fuel costs as the boiler has to compensate for the lost heat. Consequently, better insulation ensures that more heat is retained within the system, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.