Power Boiler Fuel Supply Systems

In order for a boiler to convert water to steam, a fuel source must release its energy in the form of combustion in the boiler furnace. Fuel systems play a critical role in the performance of a boiler. The most commonly used fuels in power boilers are natural gas, fuel oil, coal, and wood (biomass). Each of these fuels have different physical properties that require delivery systems that are unique to that fuel. Fuel systems should be properly operated and maintained to run efficiently.

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Course Details

Learning Objectives

• Explain the purpose of a fuel source in a power boiler
• Describe the fuel considerations taken when designing a boiler
• Identify and describe the safety hazards and safe work practices associated with power boiler fuel systems
• Describe the primary function of power boiler fuel supply systems
• Differentiate between gaseous, liquid, and solid fuels
• Identify the most commonly used fuels in power boilers
• Identify and describe key equipment
• Describe the operation of natural gas, fuel oil, coal, and biomass power boiler fuel systems

Specs

Course Level Intermediate
Languages English, Portuguese, Polish, Russian
Compatibility Audio, Video
Based on: Industry Standards and Best Practices

Author

Vector Solutions

With over two decades of experience designing advanced 3D animated courseware and developing our proprietary learning management software, we pride ourselves by having developed over 1,000 safety and operations training modules, which have helped train over 250,000 workers worldwide. Our highly experienced team provides the industry with a simple and high-quality means of training their workforce. Whether your team consists of 25 people or an enterprise with thousands, we’re here to help.

Key Questions

What is the purpose of a fuel source in a power boiler?
The purpose of a power boiler is to create steam by applying heat energy to water. In order for a boiler to convert water to steam, a fuel source must release its energy in the form of combustion in the boiler furnace.

What are the fuel considerations taken when designing a boiler?
When designing a boiler, consideration is given to the cost, availability, efficiency, and burning characteristics of the fuel.

What are some characteristics of gaseous fuels?
Gaseous fuels are relatively easy to transport and handle. They do not require on-site storage and can be controlled by a variety of control systems.

What are some characteristics of liquid fuels?
Liquid fuels are relatively easy to transport and handle, normally require on-site storage, can be controlled by a variety of control systems, and typically require heating.

What are some characteristics of solid fuels?
Solid fuels are more difficult to transport and handle and normally require preparation for combustion such as crushing or shredding, or dewatering/drying as with sludge. They take up a considerable amount of space for storage and their control systems are generally more complicated.

Sample Video Transcript

The purpose of a power boiler is to create steam by applying heat energy to water. In order for a boiler to convert water to steam, a fuel source must release its energy in the form of combustion in the boiler furnace. A variety of fuels are available for use in boilers, each having different chemical properties. Each different fuel requires its own apparatus to handle, store, and deliver the fuel to the boiler. When designing a boiler, consideration is given to cost of a fuel, availability of a fuel, efficiency of a fuel, and burning characteristics of a fuel. Every fuel, whether it is in solid, liquid, or gaseous form, is explosive, and can prove hazardous if not used according to the recommended safety guidelines.

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