What is meant by "superheating" steam?

Superheating steam refers to the process of increasing the steam temperature beyond its saturation point while keeping the pressure constant. When steam is generated, it reaches a certain temperature at which it is fully vaporized, known as the saturation point. If further energy is supplied to the steam, it can become superheated, which happens when the temperature rises above the saturation temperature for that specific pressure.

Superheated steam has several advantages in practical applications. It can carry more energy, improve thermal efficiency, and reduce the risk of condensation in pipes, which can damage engines and turbines. This characteristic is crucial in engineering systems where steam is used to drive turbines or heat systems, as it ensures that the steam remains in its vapor state during transit.