What type of condenser allows the feed pump to draw from the hot well only the quantity of feed water required by the boiler?

The type of condenser that allows the feed pump to draw from the hot well only the quantity of feedwater required by the boiler is the radial flow condenser. This design facilitates the efficient gathering and distribution of condensate, allowing for precise control over the amount of feedwater being drawn.

In a radial flow condenser, steam enters from the center and flows outward in a radial pattern, condensing as it moves through the cooling passages. This construction not only improves the thermal efficiency of the system but also simplifies the operation of the feed pump. Since feedwater is drawn directly from the hot well, based on the boiler needs, the system can adjust to varying load conditions more effectively, ensuring that only the necessary amount of water is supplied to the boiler.

This design contrasts with surface, counterflow, and downflow condensers, which have different operational characteristics that might not accommodate the same level of responsiveness in managing feedwater quantity. Radial flow condensers are particularly advantageous in applications where precise control and efficiency in the steam cycle are paramount.