Key to the generation of steam is, of course, the boiler house. This section looks in detail at boilers themselves, issues like feedwater conditioning and water levels, and how the boiler house can best be run efficiently.
Introduction
Factors to consider when choosing boilers, from local regulations, fuel options, and the various pros and cons associated with them.
Shell Boilers
A survey of various types of shell boilers, both wet and dry back. The development of the Lancashire boiler, the arrival of the packaged boiler, through to the reverse flame, or thimble boiler. We also look at the pressure and output limitations of shell boilers.
Water Tube Boilers
How water-tube boilers work, variations using the same principles (drum boilers and the Stirling boiler), and their advantages and disadvantages. We also look at combined heat and power plants (CHP), and combined cycle plants.
Miscellaneous Boiler Types Economisers and Superheaters
Used when steam isn't required all the time, and why economisers and superheaters are used.
Boiler Ratings
The three commonly used methods for measuring boiler outputs, and the equations you will need to calculate them.
Boiler Efficiency and Combustion
How the efficiency of boilers is worked out, and a survey of the different options for burners, their controls, and impact on overall effectiveness.
Boiler Fittings and Mountings
To keep your boiler operating safely and efficiently a range of other valves, controls, and accessories are needed. Here we explain the importance of each.
Steam Headers and Off Takes
Various alternatives to boiler layouts, their smooth operation, the importance of warm-up, and making sure steam is distributed properly.
Water Treatment Storage and Blowdown for Steam Boilers
An examination of the many aspects of water quality and how they might affect steam boilers.
Water for the Boiler
Options for treating water before its use in steam boilers, why carryover should be avoided, and the importance of water quality to different types of boilers are dealt with.
The Feedtank and Feedwater Conditioning
Considerations and calculations needed to optimise your boiler feedtanks, pumps, and piping. We also examine deaerators and other important elements to think about when designing an efficient system.
Controlling TDS in the Boiler Water
See how to measure TDS, maintain the correct level, and how automatic TDS control can lead to cost and efficiency savings.
Heat Recovery from Boiler Blowdown TDS Control Only
Find out how much energy can be saved, and captured, when blowdown is used to control TDS. Both flash steam and heat exchangers are looked at.
Bottom Blowdown
The term used to describe the process of removing suspended solids from a boiler. We look at how this is done, the options for blowdown, and regulations controlling its operation.
Water Levels in Steam Boilers
Crucial to their safe and efficient running, boiler water levels must be monitored and adjusted if necessary. We look at why this is important, and the effect of different loads on levels.
Methods of Detecting Water Level in Steam Boilers
Learn how level controls, low and high water alarms work, and the differences between conductivity and capacitance probes. Float controls and differential pressure cells are also reviewed.
Automatic Level Control Systems
Here we take a close look at how boiler water levels may be automatically detected, and where problems might occur.
Water Level Alarms
Too much, or too little water in your boiler is something that must be avoided. This section looks at your options for warning of either situation.
Installation of Level Controls
How to accurately gauge the water level in boilers, plus the details that will determine which method will be best for your system.
Testing Requirements in the Boiler House
A summary of how boiler testing is regularly carried out, with specific reference to the UK's regulations.
Pressurised Deaerators
A comprehensive look at how these remove unwanted gases from steam system water, and the principles and practices of their use.
Steam Accumulators
Everything you need to know about steam accumulators, from assessing requirements, sizing, design, and operation, to controls, fittings, and injectors. Comprehensive calculations are also included.