In every steam system, energy loss occurs throughout the production, distribution, and final use. Although there is 100% energy going in the system in the form of fuel, the average energy in the form of actual energy used is 60% on average – 80% at best.
During the process there are potential boiler system energy loss points. Of the nine primary ones listed below, which has the highest potential loss?
- Air/Fuel Ratio Losses
- Scale Losses
- Boiler Stack Losses
- Boiler Radiant Losses
- Boiler Blowdown Losses
- Heat Exchange Losses
- Steam Leaks
- Lost Condensate
- Trap Losses
The answer…
- Boiler Stack Losses
(15%) – Some steam system losses are controllable and therefore may be reduced or eliminated, while others are inherent and can never be prevented. Boiler Stack Losses are a great example. Even the best tuned boiler with an economizer will have 85% or so efficiency or lower.
Here are the percentages of other loss points within the system that can be reduced or eliminated with the right equipment and system design:
- Air/Fuel Ratio Losses – 4%
- Scale Losses – 10%
- Boiler Radiant Losses – 1%
- Boiler Blowdown Losses – 2.5%
- Heat Exchange Losses – 5%
- Steam Leaks – 3%
- Lost Condensate – 5%
- Trap Losses – 10%
Contact Campbell-Sevey to see how you can reduce your loss points and maximize steam system efficiency.
