Match steam supply with demand

Downsize or use multiple boiler systems to match demand and reduce energy use. The boiler may be oversized and producing more steam than required if it continually cycles (turning off and on a number of times in a relatively short period). Two or more boilers, sized correctly and carefully located, can meet a variable load of different steam pressures at different locations and times during production, provided they can be fired appropriately.

Pressure reducing valves

Boilers should be operated at their maximum possible design working pressure. Operating them at lower pressures will result in lower quality steam and reduced overall efficiencies. If the system requires lower pressures, use pressure reducing valves, ideally at the point of end use.

Accumulators

Accumulators can help meet peaks in a variable demand. A large vessel is filled with water and heated by the steam to temperature. Steam that is not needed to heat water simply flows through it and out to the plant, but when a sudden peak is imposed the pressure is reduced and a proportion of the water immediately becomes flash steam, thus protecting the boiler from instantaneous loads.