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Steam traps are a type of automatic valve that filters out condensate (i.e. condensed steam) and non-condensable gases such as air without letting steam escape. In industry, steam is used regularly for heating or as a driving force for mechanical power. Steam traps are used in such applications to ensure that steam is not wasted.
ANSI defines steam traps the following way: steam trap - Self contained valve which automatically drains the condensate from a steam containing enclosure while remaining tight to live steam, or if necessary, allowing steam to flow at a controlled or adjusted rate. Most steam traps will also pass non-condensible gases while remaining tight to live steam. ANSI/FCI 69-1-1989
If the device can't respond to fluctuations in condensate load, condensate that should be discharged will instead pool inside the equipment/pipe and heating efficiency will suffer. On the other hand, when the condensate load lessens, steam leakage will occur and steam will be wasted. Reduction in Heating Efficiency and Wasted Steam