Boiler Controls | Various Types & Their Functions Explained

Boiler controls are a prominent part of the boiler system. They are intended to keep an eye on volatiles such as steam pressure and temperature as well as maintain them. They have variations on the …

Boiler controls

Boiler controls are a prominent part of the boiler system. They are intended to keep an eye on volatiles such as steam pressure and temperature as well as maintain them. They have variations on the basis of practicality, form factor, and user interface. The availability of the options is as follows: totalizing, rate indication or control, chart recording, and data logging. These controls may include analog buttons and dials or a digitized front display for the UI. Manufacturers offer controllers that can be computer-programmed, web-enabled, and network-ready. There are various types of Boiler controls available in the market. 

A List of Boiler Control Types 

These are the multifarious controls, and their functionality is also elaborated here:-

  • Operation Controls 

They activate and deactivate the burner depending on the required pressure-volume or the system temperature. Such controllers employ a layer-by-layer divergence setting that corresponds to the point at which the burner re-ignites after being shut off at the (higher) operational set point.

  • Combustion Air Establishing Switch

This switch makes sure that the combustion air fan is functioning and provides enough air for ignition. This is positioned on the air plenum directly before the gun burner’s blasting pipe. The switch is positioned on the front head, which also functions as the air plenum, on a burner that is integrated into the unit. The switch mechanism is open by default and shuts in response to a rise in pressure inside the air plenum when the burner cycles through pre-purge. As long as the fan is operating, the door remains shut. 

  • High-Limit Control 

It controls excessive pressure. Set above the operational limit-off point, this control has a fixed differential. Thus, the switch remains closed until the set point is reached, at which time it disconnects power from the control circuit. In the event of a high-pressure event or operational control failure, the power to the burner is immediately switched off, and the control must be manually reset in order to restart the burner. 

  • Low-Gas Pressure Switch 

It implies that the right quantity of gas is being supplied to the burner in order to achieve complete input. It also guarantees the precise pace through the burner apertures, allowing for optimum mixing. Inadequate velocity may result in the pocketing of raw gas, which can lead to erratic or very hazardous re-ignitions.

  • High-Gas Pressure Switch

This switch prevents the burner from overheating and generating a hazardous situation with an excess of fuel. This button is placed downwards of the gas valve(s) and functions in reverse to the LGPS. It unlocks on a pressure rise over its operational set point, which is greater than the low gas pressure configuration and above the usual working gas pressure while obtaining the full input. 

  • Low-Oil Pressure Switch 

The switch determines if there is enough pressure to generate input. Additionally, it aids in ensuring optimum fuel atomization to avoid oil pooling and ineffective nozzle blending.

  • High-Oil Pressure Switch 

It is an addition to the low-oil pressure switch. It functions in a manner similar to the high-gas pressure button when set above the standardized operating force. Makes sure that the burner doesn’t get an excessive amount of oil that isn’t correctly mixed with combustion air, which might lead to excessive sooting, pooling, and even a fireplace explosion.

  • Atomizing Air Proving Switch 

By adding air to pressured mechanical atomization, AAPS ensures complete atomization of the oil for a cleaner burn. The whole (air) system uses compressed air, either it is taken from the plant or via a standalone compressor positioned close to the burner. 

In a Crux

After the whole discussion about the boiler controls or boiler parts, you must be aware of their types and functionality of them. In order to run the boilers smoothly, these parts play a pivotal role. 

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