Boilers are used in many industries for providing steam or hot water for heating and other processes. However, these boilers require a lot of energy which can result in high energy bills. To save money, businesses should take control of their boiler systems. Properly maintained boiler controls are essential for the safe and efficient operation of the boiler system, and routine maintenance is important to prevent malfunctions. There are different types of boiler controls, and this guide will help you understand them. So, say goodbye to cold winters and expensive heating bills, and hello to a perfectly calibrated heating system with this guide.
What Are Boiler Controls?
Boiler controls are special tools that help to monitor and regulate the boiler’s performance and ensure safety. They include various sensors, switches, and valves that make sure the right amount of pressure and temperature are maintained.
Types of Boiler Controls
Pressuretrols are used in boilers to measure and maintain the pressure of steam or water. They turn on the burner when the pressure is lower than a set level, and turn it off when the pressure is higher than a set level. This helps to keep the pressure from getting too high or too low and can save on fuel costs. Safety controls like low water cut-offs and pressure switches are also important to keep the boiler running safely.
2. Temperature Controls
Temperature controls are devices that measure and regulate the temperature of water and steam in a boiler. They sense the temperature of the water or steam and turn the boiler on or off to keep the temperature at the desired level.
Two types of temperature controls used in boilers are thermostats and aquastats.
- Aquastats are devices that control the temperature of water in the boiler. They measure the temperature of the water and turn the boiler on and off to maintain a certain temperature. Aquastats help save energy by preventing the boiler from running when it’s not necessary and can help protect the boiler from damage due to overheating. By controlling the water temperature, the system can work more efficiently.
- Thermostats are devices that control the temperature of the air in a heating system. They have sensors that measure the temperature of the air and then activate or deactivate the boiler to maintain a certain temperature. They also measure the temperature of the steam in the boiler and adjust the valves to keep the pressure at the desired level. This helps the boiler to run safely and efficiently.
3. Limit Controls:
Limit controls are devices that monitor and control the temperature and pressure of the boiler. If the temperature or pressure gets too high, the burner will be shut off. This is important because if the temperature and pressure get too high, the boiler could explode. Regular maintenance and inspections of the limit control system are needed to make sure it stays in a safe range and to prevent dangerous fires and explosions. Checking the boiler for signs of wear and tear is also important.
4. Combustion Controls:
Combustion controls are tools used to check and manage how fuel is burned in a boiler. They help to make sure the fuel is used efficiently, reducing the costs of operation and making sure no dangerous fumes are released into the environment. The controls can also adjust the amount of fuel and air going into the boiler, to make sure it works at its best.
Tips for Maintaining Boiler Controls
- Conduct regular inspections of the boiler controls, including sensors, switches, and valves
- Check the accuracy of the controls and adjust them when necessary
- Swap out any faulty or broken controls immediately
- Routinely service the boiler to guarantee it is working at its peak performance.
Boiler controls are necessary for making sure that a boiler is running safely and efficiently. They are used to adjust the temperature, pressure, and water level of the boiler, as well as to shut it off if needed. Having the right controls in place can help you save energy and make sure that the boiler is working properly.