If your deaerator (DA) has declined in performance and you have done some troubleshooting (see Tuesday's blog post) and still have not seen an improvement, you should consider shutting down the deaerator and performing an inspection on the following:
- Internal spray pipe - make sure it is intact and the orifice holes are not worn excessively.
- Spray Valves - make sure they are intact and that springs are not broken and retaining nuts are not loose or missing.
- Vent Condenser Baffling - if it is an internal vent, make sure it is not cracked or broken. If it is an external vent condenser, make sure the tube bundle is not leaking or scaled up.
- Baffling and Steam Jet Valve - if the unit is a spray type DA, check this or the secondary atomizing mixing compartment for integrity.
- Tray Section - inspect all trays and make sure they are in place and not dirty or corroded.
- Target or Baffle Plate - make sure this is not corroded by the high velocity steam.
- Regulating Valves - seals, disks and diaphragms should be replaced if worn.
- Pressure gauges and thermometers should be checked for accuracy.
A properly operating deaerator is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a boiler room. Knowing how a deaerator works, measuring its efficiency, and keeping it operating at peak efficiency goes a long way in maintaining your steam system and controlling costs.