Here is a scenario showing the impact raising your temperature can have on your bottom line:
- Running with a feedwater temperature of 180 degrees F equals:chemical usage of $27.00 per day or $10,000 annually
- Running with a feedwater temperature of 200 degrees F equals:chemical usage of $7.00 per day of $2,500 annually
In this example, just by adjusting the feedwater temperature a mere 20 degrees, $7,500 savings in chemical usage could be achieved annually. In addition, unnecessary boiler repair is avoided due to the decreased thermal stress.
If your feedwater temperature is currently below 180 degrees F, here are a few things to consider taking action on:
- If you have a blowdown heat recovery system, consult your technical specifications to determine if it is operating efficiently.
- Make adjustments. The heat exchanger must be clean and boiler water surfaces and flow must be adjusted.
- If it is operating correctly and below 180 degrees F, this in indicative of a condensate system issue.
- Identify if your feedwater tank steam sparging system is functioning properly. Adjust regulating valve to maintain a minimum of 180 Degrees F.
- A thorough analysis, possible adjustment, or new preheating unit may be necessary.
As can be seen from the above example, feedwater temperature is a variable that can have a large impact on your bottom line. A small adjustment can reap a large reward!