subject: How Does A Steam Iron Work? [print this page] Demystifying this most useful of household appliances just how does a seemingly dangerous combination of electricity, heat and water help you look your best?
A modern steam iron contains a small water reservoir with a capacity of between a quarter to half a litre of water. Also inside the iron is a very powerful heating element which quickly boils the water to produce steam. As steam is produced, it is forced out of small holes in the base of the iron (called a soleplate). The holes are carefully placed to direct the steam evenly onto the garment being ironed.
The soleplate is also heated to a set temperature and it is this combination of steam, heat and the downward pressure that the user places on the iron that is enough to flatten the fibres in the garment, thus creating a smooth surface.
The steam can be produced continuously and is measured in grams per minute. Most steam irons can produce around 20-40g of steam per minute. Steam irons usually have a burst function that can produce a much larger shot of steam but only for a very short period. This shot can be as much 200g but is usually around 80-100g. This shot of powerful steam is ideal for removing stubborn wrinkles or creating really sharp creases or pleats.
The iron will carefully regulate the temperature of the soleplate and the amount of steam being produced. The user will normally set the temperature they want on a dial. Some irons will also have presets for different types of fabric. The iron will ensure that the safe amount of heat and steam is produced for that fabric.
The material that the soleplate is made from is important and can impact on the iron's performance and therefore the amount of time and effort that is required on the part of the user to get good results. A ceramic soleplate, usually coated, is considered the most heat-efficient and allows the iron to easily glide over the garments being ironed.
Because of lime-scale present in water, scale can build up inside the iron and also around the steam holes, thereby reducing the iron's performance. Many steam irons feature some kind of anti-scale filter in the form of a removable, washable filter or a permanent cartridge. In this case, flushing the iron with vinegar may result in damage to the filter so it's not advisable to do this on a modern steam iron.
Other features you might find on a modern steam iron include auto shut off which will stop the iron from heating up after a certain period of inactivity useful for energy saving and preventing accidents.
