Steam as a heat transfer fluid in the process industry offers many advantages. Without the need for pumps, steam delivers heat with high energy density to the process, saving investment costs and space. During heat transfer, the temperature can be precisely controlled via pressure. Its high heat transfer rate enables fast processes. Steam has sterilizing properties, and its source material, water, is safe to use. Regardless of the process, steam must be provided with the required capacity and in the appropriate quality. However, typical pharmaceutical applications have varying requirements regarding analytical quality and the equipment used.

This presentation will explain the quality levels used in the industry and assign them to processes and applications. Additionally, the concept of physical steam quality will be clarified, along with its impact on processes and products. In this context, the necessity of steam quality measurement according to EN285 will also be addressed.