Blowdown vessel control systems are essential for maintaining the safe, efficient, and sustainable operation of boiler systems. These systems regulate the removal of dissolved and suspended impurities from the boiler water, helping to preserve optimal water quality and protect internal components from damage. A critical element of effective boiler house management is ensuring high-quality feedwater. Poor water quality is one of the primary causes of boiler failure, with up to 90% of breakdowns attributed to pipe corrosion. This corrosion is often caused by impurities left untreated in the system making precise and consistent blowdown control not just beneficial, but essential.
Industrial boilers require clean water to operate efficiently. Filling a boiler with untreated tap water would cause significant damage due to:
While boilers are typically fed with pre-treated water via a hotwell, this does not eliminate all impurities. Over time, oxygen ingress and TDS accumulation introduce contaminants into the system. To prevent damage, boilers require regular blowdown cycles to remove these impurities.
typical frequency blowdown is needed:
Blowdown discharge is extremely hot if released directly into pipework, it could cause severe thermal damage. A blowdown vessel plays a critical role in ensuring safe handling by:
Blowdown control is achieved through two key mechanisms, each targeting different types of contaminants:
Implementing a blowdown control system optimises both safety and efficiency, ensuring that:
By integrating automated blowdown control, plants can significantly extend boiler lifespan, reduce downtime, and improve energy efficiency.
We’re the leading provider of combustion equipment in the UK and have over 50 years’ worth of experience in the industry. This means there’s no better choice for your boiler house repairs. Get in touch with a member of our expert team to learn more.