The largest cost component: energy
The largest part of the cost of steam is the energy used to heat and vaporize water. The energy required to produce one kilogram of steam is known; when you multiply this by the unit energy price and divide it by the system efficiency, you can obtain an approximate energy cost per kilogram. As efficiency decreases, you use more energy—and therefore spend more money—for the same amount of steam.
Water and water treatment
The raw material for steam is water. In addition to the water itself, water treatment, such as softening, is also included in the cost to prevent scale and sediment problems. Properly treated water actually reduces costs in the long term by minimizing maintenance needs and efficiency losses.
Maintenance and losses
Periodic maintenance, scale removal and heat losses in the system are also part of the total cost. A well-insulated, regularly maintained and correctly sized system keeps the unit cost of steam low because it does not waste energy. An incorrectly sized or poorly maintained system, on the other hand, continuously causes financial losses.
Frequently asked questions
- What determines the cost of steam?
- It is determined primarily by energy costs. The energy required for one kilogram of steam, the unit energy price and the system efficiency determine the cost per kilogram. Water, water treatment and maintenance costs are then added.
- How does efficiency affect the cost of steam?
- As efficiency decreases, more energy is required to produce the same amount of steam. Therefore, a well-insulated, regularly maintained and correctly sized system keeps the unit cost of steam low.
- Why is the cost of water treatment necessary?
- Scale and sediment reduce efficiency and lead to breakdowns and maintenance costs. Although treatment steps such as water softening may initially appear to be an additional cost, they reduce losses and lower the total cost in the long term.