Deaerator

Definition

A specialized vessel that uses live steam to heat incoming feedwater to its boiling point, stripping dissolved gases, and that also serves as the heated feedwater storage tank.

The deaerator vents liberated oxygen and carbon dioxide from the top of the vessel and provides a reservoir of hot, deaerated water for the boiler feed pumps to draw from continuously. If it runs cold from insufficient steam, excessive cold makeup, or lost condensate return, dissolved oxygen climbs and the entire downstream system is at risk. It is the mechanical workhorse of oxygen control.

Related concepts

Deaeration · Dissolved Oxygen · Boiler Circuit

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🛠️ operations