2Modulating controlOn/off controlControls
To achieve a steam output matched to the varyingrequirements of the average steam plant, good controlof boiler water level is necessary. With the small steamspaces now common in modern boilers, a quick andaccurate response to variations in water level isessential.This brochure gives an introduction to modern methodsof steam boiler water level controls and alarms, andoutlines some of the systems available from Spirax Sarco.Significant developments in recent years have led toimproved safety and reliability of boiler level controls,and Spirax Sarco is at the forefront of this technology.Electronic level controls are now standard, and havelargely replaced older high maintenance float baseddevices.More detailed technical information is given in separateliterature. Your local Spirax Sarco Engineer will be pleasedto advise on the most suitable system for your application.
Why do I need boiler water controls and alarms?
Steam boiler water lev
What methods are used to control the water level?
Boiler water level is controlled either by switching the boiler feedpump on and off at water levels determined bya probe and controller (on/off control), or by progressively opening or closing a feedwater valve as the steamdemand causes the water level to change in the boiler (modulating control).
Steam flowrateWater levelup and downFuelFiring ratevariesFeedpumpFeedwater on/off
Steam flowratefrom a boiler withmodulating level controls
Steam flowrateWater levelmore steadyFuelSteadyfiring rateFeedpumpFeedwatervalveSpillback lineFeedwater flowratematchessteam demand
5 P M 1 7
4 P M 1 6
3 P M 1 5
2 P M 1 4
1 P M 1 3
5 P M 1 7
4 P M 1 6
3 P M 1 5
2 P M 1 4
1 P M 1 3
Alarms (limiters)
In order to operate safely, all steam boilers need amethod of warning of excessively low or high waterlevels. In many countries, regulations require twoindependent low water level alarms, or limiters.Independent high alarms are also required in manycases. With the move towards unmanned boilerhouses, there is an increasing need for high integrityself-monitoring alarms. These systems can operatewith extended test intervals in many cases.
Modulating control
Modulating control gives a steady pressure andsteam flowrate in steam boilers. The feedwaterflowrate is varied, for example through a modulatingvalve, in response to changes in water level. Withmodulating control, the boiler feedpump is runningall the time, and a spill-back line used to returnunused feedwater to the feedtank.
On/off control
On/off control systems are most suitable forinstallations where a certain amount of variationin boiler pressure and steam flowrate can betolerated. Examples might be smaller boilers withstable load conditions.
User benefits
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Accurate safe control
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Choice of systems for all applications
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Approved by many authorities around the world
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All systems suitable for pressures up to 32 bar g
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On/off or modulating control to suit application
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Single, two, or three element control
Steam flowratefrom a boiler withon/off level controls
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