This maintains the heat transfer between steam and liquid to a maximum. Figure 3 shows a temperature profile when saturated steam is used. The difference with the previous diagram is that there is now a layer of condensate on the heating surface and steam temperature is constant.
As a general rule Owls are monogamous - pairs are comprised of one male and one female, neither one of which has any involvement with other nesting birds. With some Owl species the pair bonds last only for the duration of the breeding season, especially if the species involved is dispersive or migratory.
The average clutch size is about 7 - 8 eggs but 3 - 15 is possible depending on food supplies. The Snowy Owl nests directly on the ground (usually on a slightly elevated area) or on a large boulder. The incubation, 31 - 33 days, is done exclusively by the female while being fed on the nest by the male.