Boiler selection factors

Q: What basic factors will you consider in selecting a boiler?

✅ 1. Power required to be generated

• The capacity of the boiler should match the steam demand or power requirement of the plant.

✅ 2. Operating pressure

• Required pressure level of steam for process or power generation.

✅ 3. Fuel quality and type

• Availability, cost, and type of fuel (coal, oil, gas, biomass, etc.) affect the design and choice of boiler.

✅ 4. Water availability and its quality

• Sufficient supply of water and its suitability (hardness, impurities) are important to avoid scale, corrosion, and inefficiency.

✅ 5. Probable load factor

• The expected fluctuations and variations in steam demand over time.

✅ 6. Location of the power house or process plants

• Transport accessibility, local climate, environmental regulations, and proximity to fuel and water sources.

✅ 7. Cost of operation and maintenance

• Efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance directly impact running costs.

✅ 8. Cost of installation and erection

• Initial investment including site preparation, equipment, and commissioning.

✅ 9. Availability of floor space

• Size and layout of the site determine the type and design (horizontal, vertical, packaged, field-erected) of boiler suitable for installation.