Distillation Column

Steam is a hot gas that appears naturally in high-temperature environments and can also be produced by heating water. It is one of the most common gases associated with industrial heat sources and cooling loops, and it is usually a sign that nearby materials are above the boiling point of water.

Steam is important because it affects both temperature and gas handling. Duplicants exposed to it will quickly suffer heat stress, and many buildings or machines placed nearby must be protected from the heat. In practical terms, steam is often something players either exploit for power or process carefully to keep surrounding systems from overheating.

• Steam spreads heat efficiently and is best handled with insulated materials and sealed spaces when used intentionally.
• It is most useful in setups that rely on high temperatures, such as power generation or thermal processing.
• If steam is unwanted, cooling the area or preventing water from reaching boiling temperatures keeps it from forming.
• Because it is hot by nature, steam can make enclosed areas dangerous for Duplicants and vulnerable buildings alike.