Control Boiler Processes With Flue Gas Monitors
Flue gas monitors maintain optimum flame temperature and monitor carbon monoxide (CO), oxygen and smoke level in boiler systems. A small 1 percent air infiltration will result in 20 percent higher oxygen readings. A higher CO or smoke content in the exhaust gas is a sign that there is insufficient air to complete fuel burning. Using a combination of CO and oxygen readings, it is possible to optimize the fuel/air mixture for high flame temperature (and thus the best energy efficiency) and lower air pollutant emissions.
Repair Boiler and Flue Leaks
Excessive flue gas is often the result from leaks in the boiler or the flue, reducing heat transferred to the steam and increasing pumping requirements. Usually, such leaks are easily repaired, lowering boiler energy needs by 2 to 5 percent.
Return Condensate to Boiler
Reusing hot condensate in boilers saves energy, reduces the need for treated boiler feed water and reclaims water at up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit of sensible heat.
Improve Boiler System Operations
Operating the boiler system at the proper steam pressure can save energy by reducing stack temperature and leaks in steam traps. Costs and savings vary significantly, based on the boiler system and site operation conditions.
Repair Steam Distribution System Leaks
Without regular inspection and maintenance, steam distribution piping networks often have leaks that go undetected. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that repairing leaks in an industrial steam distribution system will lead to energy savings of 5 to 10 percent.