What is a "boiler blow-off"?

The term "boiler blow-off" refers to the process of removing excess water from the boiler to control concentration levels of dissolved solids, which helps maintain water quality and prevent scaling or corrosion. During operation, as water evaporates and steam is generated, the concentration of impurities in the boiler water can increase. If not managed, these impurities can lead to operational problems and potentially damage the boiler.

The blow-off procedure typically involves discharging a specific volume of water from the boiler at regular intervals. This action helps to balance the levels of solids in the boiler water and ensures that the water remains within acceptable limits for safe and efficient operation.

Understanding this concept is crucial for power engineering because maintaining the correct concentration levels is essential for the longevity and performance of the boiler system.