Deaerators

MasterFormat Division 23 53 16: Deaerators - Ensuring Steam Quality and System Longevity

Maintaining optimal steam quality is crucial in various industrial and commercial applications. Impurities in water, like oxygen and carbon dioxide, can lead to corrosion and reduce the efficiency and lifespan of boilers, pipes, and other equipment. This is where deaerators, categorized under MasterFormat Division 23 53 16, come into play as essential components for steam systems.

What is a Deaerator?

A deaerator is a specialized pressure vessel designed to remove dissolved gases, primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide, from feedwater before it enters the boiler. This process protects the steam system from corrosion, improves thermal efficiency, and ensures a longer lifespan for critical equipment.

How Does a Deaerator Work?

Deaerators operate on the principle of Henry's Law, which states that the solubility of a gas in a liquid is proportional to the partial pressure of that gas above the liquid. By increasing the water temperature and reducing the partial pressure of dissolved gases, deaerators effectively remove these impurities.

Here's a simplified breakdown of the process:

1. Heating: Feedwater is preheated, typically using steam, and sprayed into the deaerator vessel.
2. Pressure Reduction: The pressure inside the deaerator is maintained slightly above atmospheric pressure, creating a low partial pressure environment.
3. Agitation: Spray nozzles or trays within the deaerator maximize the surface area of the water, promoting the release of dissolved gases.
4. Venting: The released gases, now with a higher partial pressure, are vented out of the deaerator.
5. Collection: The deaerated water, now significantly free from dissolved gases, collects at the bottom of the vessel and is pumped to the boiler.

Where are Deaerators Commonly Used?

Deaerators are essential components in systems that utilize steam, including:

• Power plants
• Refineries
• Chemical processing plants
• Food and beverage industries
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Large district heating systems

Installation Best Practices for Deaerators

Proper installation is crucial for optimal deaerator performance and longevity. Key considerations include:

• Location: Install the deaerator at an elevation that allows for gravity flow to the boiler feed pumps, minimizing pumping costs.
• Piping: Utilize appropriately sized piping to minimize pressure drops and ensure adequate flow rates.
• Insulation: Insulate the deaerator vessel and piping to reduce heat loss and improve efficiency.
• Controls: Implement control systems to maintain the desired operating pressure and temperature within the deaerator.
• Safety Valves: Install properly sized safety valves to prevent overpressure situations.

Top Manufacturers for Deaerators

Several reputable manufacturers specialize in designing and producing high-quality deaerators, including:

• Pentair
• Spirax Sarco
• Armstrong International
• TLT-Babcock
• EUROWATER

Conclusion

Deaerators, classified under MasterFormat Division 23 53 16, play a vital role in maintaining the efficiency, reliability, and longevity of steam systems. By effectively removing dissolved gases from feedwater, these systems prevent corrosion, improve thermal performance, and protect critical equipment. Understanding the function, installation requirements, and key manufacturers of deaerators is crucial for engineers, facility managers, and anyone involved in the design, operation, or maintenance of steam systems. Properly specifying and installing deaerators ensures optimal performance and contributes to the overall efficiency and longevity of the entire steam plant.