What is the lifeblood of an industrial steam system? If you said water chemistry, you’d be right. The quality and treatment of the water directly affect the system’s efficiency, reliability, and lifespan. Poor water chemistry doesn’t just reduce performance, it silently destroys equipment, increases operating costs, and can lead to dangerous system failures.

Many industrial facilities operate under “exempt” status, meaning they are not required by state law to employ licensed boiler operators. While this exemption may ease regulatory requirements, it does not reduce the risks associated with operating steam systems. 

An increase in energy demand in a manufacturing environment can have a significant impact on the operation of an industrial steam boiler. Let’s explore 6 ways energy fluctuations impact steam systems.

Valves are critical components of an industrial steam boiler system — controlling steam flow, maintaining pressure, ensuring safety, and isolating sections for maintenance. When they malfunction, it can compromise safety, efficiency, and reliability.

Let’s look at potential breakdowns of common valve malfunctions, their causes, and the risks they pose. And we’ll cover the 5 best practices to prevent valve malfunctions.

Meet veteran boiler operator Joe. He’s been in the boiler house for 30 years. He makes his job look easy. Consequently, nobody really knows what he does.

You know if there’s no Joe it means big consequences to operations. So, you transfer Bob into the boiler room for Joe to train.

Your operator put in all the hours. They’ve worked hard to become a competent boiler operator. Now, it’s time to get credentials from the State through the licensing process.

BUT YOU HAVE TEST ANXIETY! You’re not alone.

With growing emphasis on sustainable practices, you no doubt feel the pressure to reduce the environmental impact of your steam systems. And you are expected to do this in addition to your daily responsibilities. It can seem like an unattainable endeavor, especially with older equipment and tight budgets. Steamworks feels your pain.

If you have a pulse, you are keenly aware of the impact the labor shortage is having throughout the country and beyond. As one example, try hiring an electrician and you’ll find your wait is often months out.

Here’s the thing. The labor shortage isn’t the only problem.

The potential uncontrolled energy release in a boiler is tremendous. It’s a huge responsibility. Additionally, shutting down boilers are often a major upset to the entire plant process. After all, they keep the plant humming along.

Because of this the boiler operating job should - at least in part – feel like a lot of rehearsal. The old adage, “if you don’t use it, you lose it” certainly rings true here. Since the stakes are so high, an operator needs to understand the equipment and a certain level of courage to act in moments that need a response. Of course, responding competently is the key in keeping safety standards high and operational concerns at bay.