If your factory depends on an industrialize-size boiler for its day-to-day operations, you may have noticed lately that it does not seem to be working as well as it once did. Because of this, you may be wondering whether or not it is time to have it replaced. If so, look for the following signs that your current boiler should be switched out for a newer model.
1. Fuel Consumed Is Much Greater than the Steam Output
One sign that your factory's old boiler is on its last leg and may need replacing soon is when you notice that it has started to consume a lot more fuel than it should. And, while it seems to be using up excess fuel, its steam output does not seem to be going up. In fact, it may even start producing less steam.
If the boiler is using up more fuel, the burner is no longer able to burn the fuel as it did when it was newer. While there are several reasons why this could be occurring, such as not enough air mixing with fuel, the boiler's overall efficiency is decreasing drastically.
Especially if the boiler is an older model, even if you have it repaired, the problem may keep happening. If so, it may end up costing you more money to repair and run the boiler than it would be to replace it with a newer, energy-efficient model.
2. Boiler Is Unable to Maintain a Consistent Pressure Reading
Another sign that your boiler should be replaced is when it becomes unable to maintain a consistent pressure reading. You may find that the readings go from too low to too high rapidly, indicating that the steam being produced is inconsistent.
If the pressure reads too low, there will not be enough steam produced to keep your factory operating properly. However, if the pressure is too high, the parts and casing of the boiler will be under stress, causing damage to them. If the pressure goes extremely high, the boiler could explode.
If your factory's boiler is using up too much fuel without being able to maintain a consistent pressure reading or steam output, it is most likely time to have it replaced. Contact an industrial equipment and supplies company that offers boiler installation services to discuss your options for replacement models as well as what is needed to have a new one installed.
For more information, reach out to a local boiler service.