Overflow is not only a nuisance, but can become a serious hazard if it occurs near electrical equipment. Always use reasonable flow rates in condensers and sinks. A high flow rate does not increase the condensation rate. When using an aspirator, however, the flow rate should be turned as high as possible. Steam baths should be connected such that the steam enters the top hose and exits out the bottom hose.
Steam baths can overflow if the drainage hole becomes blocked.
When operating the steam valve, do not run the steam at any more than a low flow rate. Excessive steam can contaminate the lab experiment. Upon heating a liquid can become superheated above the boiling point and suddenly vaporize, expelling hot solution out of the container. Chemical compatibility For any given lab, chemical compatibility will have already been considered during the experiment design. It is to a student's benefit, however, to be aware of basic compatibility rules.