What is the role of the economizer in a boiler system?

The economizer plays a crucial role in improving the overall efficiency of a boiler system by recovering waste heat from flue gases and using it to preheat the feedwater before it enters the boiler. This process minimizes the energy needed to heat the water to its boiling point, which effectively reduces fuel consumption and enhances efficiency. By utilizing the heat that would otherwise be lost to the environment, the economizer contributes to energy savings and lower operational costs. This is especially important in large-scale operations where every bit of efficiency can lead to significant financial benefits.

In contrast, generating steam directly is a function of the boiler itself, rather than the economizer. Additional fuel supply is not a function of an economizer – it focuses on maximizing the efficiency of the existing fuel being used. Control of pressure within the boiler is managed primarily through various other components and systems, such as pressure regulators and safety valves, rather than through the operation of the economizer. Thus, the role of the economizer is specifically aimed at improving the thermal efficiency of the boiler system through heat recovery.