1.

ENERGY PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF

BOILERS
1.1 Introduction
Performance of the boiler, like efficiency and evaporation ratio reduces with time, due to
poor combustion, heat transfer fouling and poor operation and maintenance. Deterioration
of fuel quality and water quality also leads to poor performance of boiler. Efficiency
testing helps us to find out how far the boiler efficiency drifts away from the best
efficiency. Any observed abnormal deviations could therefore be investigated to pinpoint
the problem area for necessary corrective action. Hence it is necessary to find out the
current level of efficiency for performance evaluation, which is a pre requisite for energy
conservation action in industry.

1.2 Purpose of the Performance Test

To find out the efficiency of the boiler
To find out the Evaporation ratio
The purpose of the performance test is to determine actual performance and efficiency of
the boiler and compare it with design values or norms. It is an indicator for tracking day-
to-day and season-to-season variations in boiler efficiency and energy efficiency
improvements

1.3 Performance Terms and Definitions

Heat output
1. Boiler Efficiency, = x100
Heat input

Heat insteamoutput (kCals)

= x100
Heat in fuel input (kCals)

Quantity of steam generation

2. Evaporation Ratio =
Quantity of fuel consumption

1.4 Scope
The procedure describes routine test for both oil fired and solid fuel fired boilers using
coal, agro residues etc. Only those observations and measurements need to be made
which can be readily applied and is necessary to attain the purpose of the test.

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1.5 Reference Standards

British standards, BS845: 1987

The British Standard BS845: 1987 describes the methods and conditions under which a
boiler should be tested to determine its efficiency. For the testing to be done, the boiler
should be operated under steady load conditions (generally full load) for a period of one
hour after which readings would be taken during the next hour of steady operation to
enable the efficiency to be calculated.

The efficiency of a boiler is quoted as the % of useful heat available, expressed as a

percentage of the total energy potentially available by burning the fuel. This is expressed
on the basis of gross calorific value (GCV) .

This deals with the complete heat balance and it has two parts:
Part One deals with standard boilers, where the indirect method is specified
Part Two deals with complex plant where there are many channels of heat flow.
In this case, both the direct and indirect methods are applicable, in whole or in
part.

ASME Standard: PTC-4-1 Power Test Code for Steam Generating Units

This consists of
Part One: Direct method (also called as Input -output method)
Part Two: Indirect method (also called as Heat loss method)

IS 8753: Indian Standard for Boiler Efficiency Testing

Most standards for computation of boiler efficiency, including IS 8753 and BS845 are
designed for spot measurement of boiler efficiency. Invariably, all these standards do
not include blow down as a loss in the efficiency determination process.

Basically Boiler efficiency can be tested by the following methods:

1) The Direct Method: Where the energy gain of the working fluid (water and
steam) is compared with the energy content of the boiler fuel.
2) The Indirect Method: Where the efficiency is the difference between the losses
and the energy input.

1.6 The Direct Method Testing

1.6.1 Description
This is also known as input-output method due to the fact that it needs only the useful
output (steam) and the heat input (i.e. fuel) for evaluating the efficiency. This efficiency
can be evaluated using the formula:
Heat Output
Boiler Efficiency x100
Heat Input

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Steam Output
Flue
Gas

Fuel Input 100%

Boiler
+ Air

Water
Efficiency = Heat addition to Steam x 100
Gross Heat in Fuel

Steam flow rate x (steam enthalpy feed water enthalpy) x 100

Boiler Efficiency
Fuel firing rate x Gross calorific value

1.6.2 Measurements Required for Direct Method Testing

Heat input
Both heat input and heat output must be measured. The measurement of heat input
requires knowledge of the calorific value of the fuel and its flow rate in terms of mass or
volume, according to the nature of the fuel.

For gaseous fuel: A gas meter of the approved type can be used and the measured
volume should be corrected for temperature and pressure. A sample of gas can be
collected for calorific value determination, but it is usually acceptable to use the
calorific value declared by the gas suppliers.

For liquid fuel: Heavy fuel oil is very viscous, and this property varies sharply
with temperature. The meter, which is usually installed on the combustion
appliance, should be regarded as a rough indicator only and, for test purposes, a
meter calibrated for the particular oil is to be used and over a realistic range of
temperature should be installed. Even better is the use of an accurately calibrated
day tank.

For solid fuel: The accurate measurement of the flow of coal or other solid fuel is
very difficult. The measurement must be based on mass, which means that bulky
apparatus must be set up on the boiler-house floor. Samples must be taken and
bagged throughout the test, the bags sealed and sent to a laboratory for analysis
and calorific value determination. In some more recent boiler houses, the problem
has been alleviated by mounting the hoppers over the boilers on calibrated load
cells, but these are yet uncommon.

Heat output
There are several methods, which can be used for measuring heat output. With steam
boilers, an installed steam meter can be used to measure flow rate, but this must be

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corrected for temperature and pressure. In earlier years, this approach was not favoured
due to the change in accuracy of orifice or venturi meters with flow rate. It is now more
viable with modern flow meters of the variable-orifice or vortex-shedding types.

The alternative with small boilers is to measure feed water, and this can be done by
previously calibrating the feed tank and noting down the levels of water during the
beginning and end of the trial. Care should be taken not to pump water during this period.
Heat addition for conversion of feed water at inlet temperature to steam, is considered for
heat output.

In case of boilers with intermittent blowdown, blowdown should be avoided during the
trial period. In case of boilers with continuous blowdown, the heat loss due to blowdown
should be calculated and added to the heat in steam.

1.6.3 Boiler Efficiency by Direct Method: Calculation and Example

Test Data and Calculation

Water consumption and coal consumption were measured in a coal-fired boiler at hourly
intervals. Weighed quantities of coal were fed to the boiler during the trial period.
Simultaneously water level difference was noted to calculate steam generation during the
trial period. Blow down was avoided during the test. The measured data is given below.

Type of boiler: Coal fired Boiler

Heat output data

Quantity of steam generated (output) : 8 TPH
Steam pressure / temperature : 10 kg/cm2(g)/ 180 0C
Enthalpy of steam(dry & Saturated)
at 10 kg/cm2(g) pressure : 665 kCal/kg
Feed water temperature : 850 C
Enthalpy of feed water : 85 kCal/kg

Heat input data

Quantity of coal consumed (Input) : 1.6 TPH

GCV of coal : 4000 kCal/kg

Calculation

Q x (H h)
Boiler efficiency () x100
q xGCV

Where Q = Quantity of steam generated per hour (kg/hr)

q = Quantity of fuel used per hour (kg/hr)
GCV = Gross calorific value of the fuel (kCal/kg)
H = Enthalpy of steam (kCal/kg)
h = Enthalpy of feed water (kCal/kg)

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8TPH x1000 kg / T x (665 85)

Boiler efficiency () x 100
1.6 TPH x1000kg / T x 4000kCal / kg

= 72.5%

Evaporation Ratio = 8 Tonne of steam / 1.6 Tonne of coal

=5

1.6.4 Merits and Demerits of Direct Method

Merits
Plant people can evaluate quickly the efficiency of boilers
Requires few parameters for computation
Needs few instruments for monitoring

Demerits
Does not give clues to the operator as to why efficiency of system is lower
Does not calculate various losses accountable for various efficiency levels
Evaporation ratio and efficiency may mislead, if the steam is highly wet due to
water carryover

1.7 The Indirect Method Testing

1.7.1 Description

The efficiency can be measured easily by measuring all the losses occurring in the boilers
using the principles to be described. The disadvantages of the direct method can be
overcome by this method, which calculates the various heat losses associated with boiler.
The efficiency can be arrived at, by subtracting the heat loss fractions from 100.An
important advantage of this method is that the errors in measurement do not make
significant change in efficiency.

Thus if boiler efficiency is 90% , an error of 1% in direct method will result in significant
change in efficiency. i.e.90 + 0.9 = 89.1 to 90.9. In indirect method, 1% error in
measurement of losses will result in

Efficiency = 100 (10 + 0.1) = 90 + 0.1 = 89.9 to 90.1

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

The various heat losses occurring in the boiler are:

Steam Output
1. Dry Flue gas loss
2. H2 loss
6. Surface loss 3. Moisture in fuel
4. Moisture in air
5. CO loss

7. Fly ash loss

Fuel Input, 100%
Boiler Flue gas sample

Air

Water 8. Bottom ash loss

Blow down

Efficiency = 100 (1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8) (by Indirect Method)

The following losses are applicable to liquid, gas and solid fired boiler

L1- Loss due to dry flue gas (sensible heat)

L2- Loss due to hydrogen in fuel (H2)
L3- Loss due to moisture in fuel (H2O)
L4- Loss due to moisture in air (H2O)
L5- Loss due to carbon monoxide (CO)
L6- Loss due to surface radiation, convection and other unaccounted*.

*Losses which are insignificant and are difficult to measure.

The following losses are applicable to solid fuel fired boiler in addition to above

L7- Unburnt losses in fly ash (Carbon)

L8- Unburnt losses in bottom ash (Carbon)
Boiler Efficiency by indirect method = 100 (L1+L2+L3+L4+L5+L6+L7+L8)

1.7.2 Measurements Required for Performance Assessment Testing

The following parameters need to be measured, as applicable for the computation of

boiler efficiency and performance.

a) Flue gas analysis

1. Percentage of CO2 or O2 in flue gas

2. Percentage of CO in flue gas
3. Temperature of flue gas

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b) Flow meter measurements for

1. Fuel
2. Steam
3. Feed water
4. Condensate water
5. Combustion air

c) Temperature measurements for

1. Flue gas
2. Steam
3. Makeup water
4. Condensate return
5. Combustion air
6. Fuel
7. Boiler feed water

d) Pressure measurements for

1. Steam
2. Fuel
3. Combustion air, both primary and secondary
4. Draft

e) Water condition

1. Total dissolved solids (TDS)

2. pH
3. Blow down rate and quantity

The various parameters that were discussed above can be measured with the instruments
that are given in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1 Typical Instruments used for Boiler Performance Assessment.

Instrument Type Measurements
Flue gas analyzer Portable or fixed % CO2 , O2 and CO
Temperature indicator Thermocouple, liquid in Fuel temperature, flue gas
glass temperature, combustion air
temperature, boiler surface
temperature, steam temperature
Draft gauge Manometer, differential Amount of draft used or available
pressure
TDS meter Conductivity Boiler water TDS, feed water TDS,

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make-up water TDS.

Flow meter As applicable Steam flow, water flow, fuel flow,
air flow

1.7.3 Test Conditions and Precautions for Indirect Method Testing

A) The efficiency test does not account for:

Standby losses. Efficiency test is to be carried out, when the boiler is operating
under a steady load. Therefore, the combustion efficiency test does not reveal
standby losses, which occur between firing intervals
Blow down loss. The amount of energy wasted by blow down varies over a wide
range.
Soot blower steam. The amount of steam used by soot blowers is variable that
depends on the type of fuel.
Auxiliary equipment energy consumption. The combustion efficiency test does
not account for the energy usage by auxiliary equipments, such as burners, fans,
and pumps.

B) Preparations and pre conditions for testing

Burn the specified fuel(s) at the required rate.

Do the tests while the boiler is under steady load. Avoid testing during warming
up of boilers from a cold condition
Obtain the charts /tables for the additional data.
Determination of general method of operation
Sampling and analysis of fuel and ash.
Ensure the accuracy of fuel and ash analysis in the laboratory.
Check the type of blow down and method of measurement
Ensure proper operation of all instruments.
Check for any air infiltration in the combustion zone.

C) Flue gas sampling location

It is suggested that the exit duct of the boiler be probed and traversed to find the location
of the zone of maximum temperature. This is likely to coincide with the zone of
maximum gas flow and is therefore a good sampling point for both temperature and gas
analysis.

D) Options of flue gas analysis

Check the Oxygen Test with the Carbon Dioxide Test

If continuous-reading oxygen test equipment is installed in boiler plant, use oxygen
reading. Occasionally use portable test equipment that checks for both oxygen and carbon
dioxide. If the carbon dioxide test does not give the same results as the oxygen test,
something is wrong. One (or both) of the tests could be erroneous, perhaps because of
stale chemicals or drifting instrument calibration. Another possibility is that outside air is

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being picked up along with the flue gas. This occurs if the combustion gas area operates
under negative pressure and there are leaks in the boiler casing.

Carbon Monoxide Test

The carbon monoxide content of flue gas is a good indicator of incomplete combustion
with all types of fuels, as long as they contain carbon. Carbon monoxide in the flue gas is
minimal with ordinary amounts of excess air, but it rises abruptly as soon as fuel
combustion starts to be incomplete.

E) Planning for the testing

The testing is to be conducted for a duration of 4 to 8 hours in a normal production

day.
Advanced planning is essential for the resource arrangement of manpower, fuel,
water and instrument check etc and the same to be communicated to the boiler
Supervisor and Production Department.
Sufficient quantity of fuel stock and water storage required for the test duration
should be arranged so that a test is not disrupted due to non-availability of fuel and
water.
Necessary sampling point and instruments are to be made available with working
condition.
Lab Analysis should be carried out for fuel, flue gas and water in coordination
with lab personnel.
The steam table, psychometric chart, calculator are to be arranged for computation
of boiler efficiency.

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1.7.4 Boiler Efficiency by Indirect Method: Calculation Procedure and Formula

In order to calculate the boiler efficiency by indirect method, all the losses that occur in
the boiler must be established. These losses are conveniently related to the amount of
fuel burnt. In this way it is easy to compare the performance of various boilers with
different ratings.

Conversion formula for proximate analysis to ultimate analysis

%C = 0.97C+ 0.7(VM+0.1A) - M(0.6-0.01M)

%H2 = 0.036C + 0.086 (VM -0.1xA) - 0.0035M2 (1-0.02M)
%N2 = 2.10 -0.020 VM

where C = % of fixed carbon

A = % of ash
VM = % of volatile matter
M = % of moisture

However it is suggested to get a ultimate analysis of the fuel fired periodically from a
reputed laboratory.

Theoretical (stoichiometric) air fuel ratio and excess air supplied are to be determined
first for computing the boiler losses. The formula is given below for the same.

a) Theoretical air = [(11.6 x C) {34.8 x (H 2 O2 / 8)}(4.35 x S )]/100 kg/kg of

required for fuel. [from fuel analysis]
combustion
Where C, H2, O2 and S are the percentage of carbon, hydrogen,
oxygen and sulphur present in the fuel.
b) % Excess Air = O2 %
supplied (EA) x100 [from flue gas analysis]
21 O2%
Normally O2 measurement is recommended. If O2
measurement is not available, use CO2 measurement
7900 x[(CO2 %)t (CO2 %)a ]
[from flue gas analysis]
(CO2 )a % x [100 (CO2 %)t ]
Where, (CO2%)t = Theoretical CO2
(CO2%)a = Actual CO2% measured in flue gas
Molesof C
( CO2 )t = Molesof N2 Molesof C
Wt of N2 in theoritical air Wt of N2 in fuel

Moles of N2 = Mol.wt of N2 Mol.Wt of N2
Moles of C = Wt of C in fuel
Molecular Wt of C
c) Actual mass of = {1 + EA/100} x theoretical air
air supplied/ kg of
fuel (AAS)

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The various losses associated with the operation of a boiler are discussed below with
required formula.

1. Heat loss due to dry flue gas

This is the greatest boiler loss and can be calculated with the following formula:

L1 = m x Cp x (Tf Ta )
x 100
GCV of fuel
Where,
L1 = % Heat loss due to dry flue gas
m = Mass of dry flue gas in kg/kg of fuel
= Combustion products from fuel: CO2 + SO2 + Nitrogen in fuel +
Nitrogen in the actual mass of air supplied + O2 in flue gas.
(H2O/Water vapour in the flue gas should not be considered)
Cp = Specific heat of flue gas in kCal/kg
Tf = Flue gas temperature in oC
Ta = Ambient temperature in oC

Note-1:

For Quick and simple calculation of boiler efficiency use the following.

A: Simple method can be used for determining the dry flue gas loss as given below.

m x Cp x (Tf Ta )
a) Percentage heat loss due to dry flue gas = x 100
GCV of fuel

Total mass of flue gas (m)/kg of fuel = mass of actual air supplied/kg of fuel + 1 kg of
fuel

Note-2: Water vapour is produced from Hydrogen in fuel, moisture present in fuel and air
during the combustion. The losses due to these components have not been included in the
dry flue gas loss since they are separately calculated as a wet flue gas loss.

2. Heat loss due to evaporation of water formed due to H2 in fuel (%)

The combustion of hydrogen causes a heat loss because the product of combustion is
water. This water is converted to steam and this carries away heat in the form of its
latent heat.

9 x H2 x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
L2 = x 100
GCV of fuel
Where
H2 = kg of hydrogen present in fuel on 1 kg basis
Cp = Specific heat of superheated steam in kCal/kgoC
Tf = Flue gas temperature in oC

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Ta = Ambient temperature in oC
584 = Latent heat corresponding to partial pressure of water vapour

3. Heat loss due to moisture present in fuel

Moisture entering the boiler with the fuel leaves as a superheated vapour. This moisture
loss is made up of the sensible heat to bring the moisture to boiling point, the latent heat
of evaporation of the moisture, and the superheat required to bring this steam to the
temperature of the exhaust gas. This loss can be calculated with the following formula

M x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
L3 = x 100
GCV of fuel
where
M = kg of moisture in fuel in 1 kg basis
Cp = Specific heat of superheated steam in kCal/kgoC
Tf = Flue gas temperature in oC
Ta = Ambient temperature in oC
584 = Latent heat corresponding to partial pressure of water vapour

4. Heat loss due to moisture present in air

Vapour in the form of humidity in the incoming air, is superheated as it passes through
the boiler. Since this heat passes up the stack, it must be included as a boiler loss.

To relate this loss to the mass of coal burned, the moisture content of the combustion air
and the amount of air supplied per unit mass of coal burned must be known.

The mass of vapour that air contains can be obtained from psychrometric charts and
typical values are included below:

Dry-Bulb Wet Bulb Relative Humidity Kilogram water

Temp oC TempoC (%) per Kilogram dry
air (Humidity
Factor)
20 20 100 0.016
20 14 50 0.008
30 22 50 0.014
40 30 50 0.024

AAS xhumidity factor x Cp x (Tf - Ta )

L4 = x 100
GCV of fuel
where
AAS = Actual mass of air supplied per kg of fuel
Humidity factor = kg of water/kg of dry air
Cp = Specific heat of superheated steam in kCal/kgoC
Tf = Flue gas temperature in oC
Ta = Ambient temperature in oC (dry bulb)

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5. Heat loss due to incomplete combustion:

Products formed by incomplete combustion could be mixed with oxygen and burned
again with a further release of energy. Such products include CO, H2, and various
hydrocarbons and are generally found in the flue gas of the boilers. Carbon monoxide is
the only gas whose concentration can be determined conveniently in a boiler plant test.

%CO x C 5744
x x 100
L5 = %CO %CO2 GCV of fuel
L5 = % Heat loss due to partial conversion of C to CO
CO = Volume of CO in flue gas leaving economizer (%)
CO2 = Actual Volume of CO2 in flue gas (%)
C = Carbon content kg / kg of fuel
or
When CO is obtained in ppm during the flue gas analysis
CO formation (Mco) = CO (in ppm) x 10-6 x Mf x 28
Mf = Fuel consumption in kg/hr
L5 = Mco x 5744*
* Heat loss due to partial combustion of carbon.

6. Heat loss due to radiation and convection:

The other heat losses from a boiler consist of the loss of heat by radiation and convection
from the boiler casting into the surrounding boiler house.

Normally surface loss and other unaccounted losses is assumed based on the type
and size of the boiler as given below

For industrial fire tube / packaged boiler = 1.5 to 2.5%

For industrial watertube boiler = 2 to 3%

For power station boiler = 0.4 to 1%

However it can be calculated if the surface area of boiler and its surface temperature are
known as given below :

L6 = 0.548 x [ (Ts / 55.55)4 (Ta / 55.55)4] + 1.957 x (Ts Ta)1.25 x sq.rt of

[(196.85 Vm + 68.9) / 68.9]
where
L6 = Radiation loss in W/m2
Vm = Wind velocity in m/s
Ts = Surface temperature (K)
Ta = Ambient temperature (K)

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Heat loss due to unburned carbon in fly ash and bottom ash:

Small amounts of carbon will be left in the ash and this constitutes a loss of potential heat
in the fuel. To assess these heat losses, samples of ash must be analyzed for carbon
content. The quantity of ash produced per unit of fuel must also be known.

7. Heat loss due to unburnt in fly ash (%).

Total ash collected / kg of fuel burnt x G.C.V of fly ash x 100

L7
GCV of fuel

8. Heat loss due to unburnt in bottom ash (%)

Total ash collected / kg of fuel burnt x G.C.V of bottom ash x 100

L8
GCV of fuel

Heat Balance:

Having established the magnitude of all the losses mentioned above, a simple heat
balance would give the efficiency of the boiler. The efficiency is the difference between
the energy input to the boiler and the heat losses calculated.

Boiler Heat Balance:

Input/Output Parameter kCal / kg of fuel %

Heat Input in fuel = 100

Various Heat losses in boiler
1. Dry flue gas loss =
2. Loss due to hydrogen in fuel
3. Loss due to moisture in fuel =
4. Loss due to moisture in air =
5. Partial combustion of C to CO =
6. Surface heat losses =
7. Loss due to Unburnt in fly ash =
8. Loss due to Unburnt in bottom =
ash
Total Losses =
Boiler efficiency = 100 (1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8)

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1.8 Example: Boiler Efficiency Calculation

1.8.1 For Coal fired Boiler

The following are the data collected for a boiler using coal as the fuel. Find out the boiler
efficiency by indirect method.

Fuel firing rate = 5599.17 kg/hr

Steam generation rate = 21937.5 kg/hr
Steam pressure = 43 kg/cm2(g)
Steam temperature = 377 oC
Feed water temperature = 96 oC
%CO2 in Flue gas = 14
%CO in flue gas = 0.55
Average flue gas temperature = 190 oC
Ambient temperature = 31 oC
Humidity in ambient air = 0.0204 kg / kg dry air
Surface temperature of boiler = 70 oC
Wind velocity around the boiler = 3.5 m/s
Total surface area of boiler = 90 m2
GCV of Bottom ash = 800 kCal/kg
GCV of fly ash = 452.5 kCal/kg
Ratio of bottom ash to fly ash = 90:10
Fuel Analysis (in %)
Ash content in fuel = 8.63
Moisture in coal = 31.6
Carbon content = 41.65
Hydrogen content = 2.0413
Nitrogen content = 1.6
Oxygen content = 14.48
GCV of Coal = 3501 kCal/kg

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Boiler efficiency by indirect method

Step 1 Find theoretical air

requirement
= [(11.6 x C) {34.8 x (H2 O2 / 8)}(4.35 x S )]/100
Theoretical air required for kg/kg of coal
complete combustion
= [(11.6 x 41.65) + {34.8 x (2.0413 14.48/8)} +
(4.35 x 0)] / 100

= 4.91 kg / kg of coal

Step 2 Find theoretical CO2 %

Molesof C
% CO2 at theoretical condition = Molesof N2 Molesof C
( CO2 )t
Where, Wt of N2 in theoritical air Wt of N2 in fuel

Moles of N2 = Mol.wt of N2 Mol.Wt of N2

4.91x 77 /100 0.016

0.1356
Moles of N2 = 28 28

Where moles of C = 0.4165/12 = 0.0347

0.0347
( CO2 )t = 0.1332 0.0347

( CO2 )t = 20.37%

Step 3 To find Excess air

supplied

Actual CO2 measured in flue gas = 14.0%

7900 x[(CO2 %)t (CO2 %)a ]

% Excess air supplied (EA) = (CO2 )a % x [100 (CO2 %)t ]
7900 x[20.37 14]
= 14 x [100 20.37]

= 45.17 %

Step 4 To find actual mass of air supplied

Actual mass of air supplied = {1 + EA/100} x theoretical air

= {1 + 45.17/100} x 4.91

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= 7.13 kg/kg of coal

Step 5 To find actual mass of dry flue gas

Mass of dry flue gas = Mass of CO2 +Mass of N2 content in the fuel+ Mass of N2 in the
combustion air supplied + Mass of oxygen in flue gas
0.4165 x 44 7.13 x 77 (7.13 4.91) x 23
0.016
Mass of dry flue gas = 12 100 100

= 7.54 kg / kg of coal

Step 6 To find all losses

m x Cp x (Tf Ta )
1. % Heat loss in dry flue gas (L1) = x 100
GCV of fuel
7.54 x 0.23 x (190 31)
x 100
= 3501
L1 = 7.88 %

9 x H2 x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
2. % Heat loss due to formation = x 100
GCV of fuel
of water from H2 in fuel (L2)
9 x 0.02041 x {584 0.45 (190 - 31 )}
x 100
= 3501
L2 = 3.44 %

M x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
3. % Heat loss due to moisture in = x 100
GCV of fuel
fuel (L3)
M x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
x 100
GCV of fuel
=

L3 = 5.91 %

AAS xhumidity x Cp x (Tf Ta )

4. % Heat loss due to moisture in = x 100
GCV of fuel
air (L4)
7.13 x 0.0204 x 0.45 x (190 31)
x 100
= 3501

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L4 = 0.29 %

%CO x C 5744
x x 100
5. % Heat loss due to partial = %CO %CO2 GCV of fuel
conversion of C to CO (L5)
0.55 x 0.4165 5744
x x 100
0.55 14 3501
=
L5 = 2.58 %

6. Heat loss due to radiation and = 0.548 x [ (343/55.55)4 (304/55.55)4] + 1.957 x

convection (L6)
(343 - 304)1.25 x sq.rt of [(196.85 x 3.5 + 68.9) /
68.9]
= 633.3 w/m2
= 633.3 x 0.86
= 544.64 kCal / m2
Total radiation and convection = 544.64 x 90
loss per hour
= 49017.6 kCal
% radiation and convection loss = 49017.6 x 100

3501 x 5599.17
L6 = 0.25 %

7. % Heat loss due to unburnt in fly ash

% Ash in coal = 8.63

Ratio of bottom ash to fly ash = 90:10
GCV of fly ash = 452.5 kCal/kg
Amount of fly ash in 1 kg of coal = 0.1 x 0.0863
= 0.00863 kg
Heat loss in fly ash = 0.00863 x 452.5
= 3.905 kCal / kg of coal
% heat loss in fly ash = 3.905 x 100 / 3501
L7 = 0.11 %

8. % Heat loss due to unburnt in bottom ash

GCV of bottom ash = 800 kCal/kg
Amount of bottom ash in 1 kg of = 0.9 x 0.0863
coal
= 0.077 kg
Heat loss in bottom ash = 0.077 x 800

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

= 62.136 kCal/kg of coal

% Heat loss in bottom ash = 62.136 x 100 / 3501
L8 = 1.77 %

Boiler efficiency by indirect = 100 (L1+ L2+ L3+ L4+ L5+ L6+ L7+ L8)
method

= 100-(7.88 + 3.44+ 5.91+ 0.29+ 2.58+ 0.25+

0.11+1.77)

= 100-22.23
= 77.77 %

Summary of Heat Balance for Coal Fired Boiler

Input/Output Parameter kCal / kg of % loss
coal
Heat Input = 3501 100
Losses in boiler
1. Dry flue gas, L1 = 275.88 7.88
2. Loss due to hydrogen in fuel, L2 = 120.43 3.44
3. Loss due to moisture in fuel, L3 = 206.91 5.91
4. Loss due to moisture in air, L4 = 10.15 0.29
5. Partial combustion of C to CO, L5 = 90.32 2.58
6. Surface heat losses, L6 = 8.75 0.25
7. Loss due to Unburnt in fly ash, L7 = 3.85 0.11
8. Loss due to Unburnt in bottom ash, = 61.97 1.77
L8
Boiler Efficiency = 100 (L1 + L2+ L3+ L4+ L5+ L6+ L7+ L8) = 77.77 %

1.8.2 Efficiency for an oil fired boiler

The following are the data collected for a boiler using furnace oil as the fuel. Find out the
boiler efficiency by indirect method.

Ultimate analysis (%)

Carbon = 84
Hydrogen = 12
Nitrogen = 0.5
Oxygen = 1.5
Sulphur = 1.5
Moisture = 0.5
GCV of fuel = 10000 kCal/kg
Fuel firing rate = 2648.125 kg/hr
Surface Temperature of boiler = 80 oC
Surface area of boiler = 90 m2
Humidity = 0.025 kg/kg of dry air

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Wind speed = 3.8 m/s

Flue gas analysis (%)

Flue gas temperature = 190oC

Ambient temperature = 30o C
Co2% in flue gas by volume = 10.8
O2% in flue gas by volume = 7.4

a) Theoretical air required = [(11.6 x C) {34.8 x (H 2 O2 / 8)}(4.35 x S )]/100

kg/kg of fuel. [from fuel analysis]

= [(11.6 x 84) + [{34.8 x (12 1.5/8)} + (4.35 x 1.5)]

/ 100

= 13.92 kg/kg of oil

b) Excess Air supplied (EA) = O2 %

x100 [from flue gas analysis]
21 O2%
7.4
x100
= 21 7.4

= 54.4 %

c) Actual mass of air supplied/ kg = {1 + EA/100} x theoretical air

of fuel (AAS)
= {1 + 54.4/100} x 13.92
= 21.49 kg / kg of fuel
Mass of dry flue gas = Mass of (CO2 + SO2 + N2 + O2) in flue gas + N2 in
air we are supplying.

Mass of dry flue gas = 0.84 x 44 0.015 x 64 7.4 x 23 21.49 x 77

0.005
12 32 100 100
= 21.36 kg / kg of oil

m x Cp x (Tf Ta )
% Heat loss in dry flue gas = x 100
GCV of fuel

21.36 x 0.23 x (190 30)

x 100
= 10000

L1 = 7.86 %

9 x H2 x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
Heat loss due to evaporation of = x 100
GCV of fuel
water due to H2 in fuel (%)

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

= 9 x 0.12 x {584 0.45 (190 - 30 )}

x 100
10000
L2 = 7.08 %

M x {584 Cp (Tf - Ta )}
% Heat loss due to moisture in = x 100
GCV of fuel
fuel
0.005 x {584 0.45 (190 - 30 )}
x 100
= 10000

L3 = 0.033%

AAS xhumidity factor x Cp x (Tf - Ta )

% Heat loss due to moisture in air = x 100
GCV of fuel
21.36 x 0.025 x 0.45 x (190 - 30 )
x 100
= 10000

L4 = 0.38 %

Radiation and convection loss = 0.548 x [ (Ts / 55.55)4 (Ta / 55.55)4] + 1.957 x (Ts
(L6) Ta)1.25 x sq.rt of [(196.85 Vm + 68.9) / 68.9]
= 0.548 x [ (353 / 55.55)4 (303 / 55.55)4] + 1.957 x
(353 303)1.25 x sq.rt of [(196.85 x 3.8 + 68.9) /
68.9]
= 1303 W/m2
= 1303 x 0.86
= 1120.58 kCal / m2
Total radiation and convection = 1120 .58 x 90 m2
loss per hour
= 100852.2 kCal

% Radiation and convection loss = 100852.2

x 100
10000 x 2648.125

L6 = 0.38 %
Normally it is assumed as 0.5 to 1 % for simplicity

Boiler efficiency by indirect = 100 (L1 + L2+ L3+ L4+ L6)

method
= 100-(7.86 + 7.08 + 0.033 + 0.38 + 0.38)
= 100 15.73
= 84.27 %

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Summary of Heat Balance for the Boiler Using Furnace Oil

Input/Output Parameter kCal / kg of %Loss

furnace oil
Heat Input = 10000 100
Losses in boiler :
1. Dry flue gas, L1 = 786 7.86
2. Loss due to hydrogen in fuel, L2 = 708 7.08
3. Loss due to Moisture in fuel, L3 = 3.3 0.033
4. Loss due to Moisture in air, L4 = 38 0.38
5. Partial combustion of C to CO, L5 = 0 0
6. Surface heat losses, L6 = 38 0.38

Boiler Efficiency = 100 (L1 + L2+ L3+ L4+ L6) = 84.27 %

Note:
For quick and simple calculation of boiler efficiency use the following .

A: Simple method can be used for determining the dry flue gas loss as given below.

a) Percentage heat loss due to dry flue gas = m x C p x (Tf Ta ) x 100

GCV of fuel

Total mass of flue gas (m) = mass of actual air supplied (ASS)+ mass of fuel supplied
= 21.49 + 1=22.49

22.49 x 0.23 x (190 30)

%Dry flue gas loss = x 100 8.27%
10000

1.9 Factors Affecting Boiler Performance

The various factors affecting the boiler performance are listed below:
Periodical cleaning of boilers
Periodical soot blowing
Proper water treatment programme and blow down control
Draft control
Excess air control
Percentage loading of boiler
Steam generation pressure and temperature
Boiler insulation
Quality of fuel

All these factors individually/combined, contribute to the performance of the boiler and
reflected either in boiler efficiency or evaporation ratio. Based on the results obtained
from the testing further improvements have to be carried out for maximizing the
performance. The test can be repeated after modification or rectification of the problems
and compared with standard norms. Energy auditor should carry out this test as a routine
manner once in six months and report to the management for necessary action.

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

1.10 Data Collection Format for Boiler Performance Assessment

Sheet 1 - Technical specification of boiler

1 Boiler ID code and Make

2 Year of Make
3 Boiler capacity rating
4 Type of Boiler
5 Type of fuel used
6 Maximum fuel flow rate
7 Efficiency by GCV
8 Steam generation pressure &superheat temperature
9 Heat transfer area in m2
10 Is there any waste heat recovery device installed
11 Type of draft
12 Chimney height in metre

Sheet 2 - Fuel analysis details

Fuel Fired
GCV of fuel
Specific gravity of fuel (Liquid)
Bulk density of fuel (Solid)
Proximate Analysis Date of Test:

1 Fixed carbon %
2 Volatile matter %
3 Ash %
4 Moisture %

Ultimate Analysis Date of Test:

1 Carbon %
2 Hydrogen %
3 Sulphur %
4 Nitrogen %
5 Ash %
6 Moisture %
7 Oxygen %

Water Analysis Date of Test:

1 Feed water TDS ppm
2 Blow down TDS ppm
3 PH of feed water
4 PH of blow down

Flue gas Analysis Date of Test:

1 CO2 %
2 O2 %
3 CO %
O
4 Flue gas temperature C

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Sheet 3 Format sheet for boiler efficiency testing

Date: Boiler Code No.

S.No Time Ambient air Fuel Feed water Steam Flue gas analysis Surface
Temp of
boiler, oC
Dry Wet Flow Temp Flow Temp Flow Pressure Temp O2 CO2 CO Temp
o o o 0
bulb Bulb Rate, C rate, C rate, C % % C
kg/cm2g %
Temp, Temp, kg/hr m3/hr m3/hr
o o
C C
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Boiler Supervisor Energy Manager Energy Auditor

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

1.11 Boiler Terminology

MCR: Steam boilers rated output is also usually defined as MCR (Maximum Continuous
Rating). This is the maximum evaporation rate that can be sustained for 24 hours and may be
less than a shorter duration maximum rating
Boiler Rating
Conventionally, boilers are specified by their capacity to hold water and the steam generation
rate. Often, the capacity to generate steam is specified in terms of equivalent evaporation (kg
of steam / hour at 100oC). Equivalent evaporation- from and at 100oC. The equivalent of
the evaporation of 1 kg of water at 100oC to steam at 100oC.

Efficiency : In the boiler industry there are four common definitions of efficiency:

a. Combustion efficiency

Combustion efficiency is the effectiveness of the burner only and relates to its ability to
completely burn the fuel. The boiler has little bearing on combustion efficiency. A well-
designed burner will operate with as little as 15 to 20% excess air, while converting all
combustibles in the fuel to useful energy.

b. Thermal efficiency

Thermal efficiency is the effectiveness of the heat transfer in a boiler. It does not take into
account boiler radiation and convection losses for example from the boiler shell water
column piping etc.

c. Boiler efficiency

The term boiler efficiency is often substituted for combustion or thermal efficiency. True
boiler efficiency is the measure of fuel to steam efficiency.

d. Fuel to steam efficiency

Fuel to steam efficiency is calculated using either of the two methods as prescribed by the
ASME (American Society for Mechanical Engineers) power test code, PTC 4.1. The first
method is input output method. The second method is heat loss method.

Boiler turndown

Boiler turndown is the ratio between full boiler output and the boiler output when operating
at low fire. Typical boiler turndown is 4:1. The ability of the boiler to turndown reduces
frequent on and off cycling. Fully modulating burners are typically designed to operate down
to 25% of rated capacity. At a load that is 20% of the load capacity, the boiler will turn off
and cycle frequently.

A boiler operating at low load conditions can cycle as frequently as 12 times per hour or 288
times per day. With each cycle, pre and post purge airflow removes heat from the boiler and
sends it out the stack. Keeping the boiler on at low firing rates can eliminate the energy loss.
Every time the boiler cycles off, it must go through a specific start-up sequence for safety

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

assurance. It requires about a minute or two to place the boiler back on line. And if there is a
sudden load demand the start up sequence cannot be accelerated. Keeping the boiler on line
assures the quickest response to load changes. Frequent cycling also accelerates wear of
boiler components. Maintenance increases and more importantly, the chance of component
failure increases.

Boiler(s) capacity requirement is determined by many different type of load variations in the
system. Boiler over sizing occurs when future expansion and safety factors are added to
assure that the boiler is large enough for the application. If the boiler is oversized the ability
of the boiler to handle minimum loads without cycling is reduced. Therefore capacity and
turndown should be considered together for proper boiler selection to meet overall system
load requirements.

Primary air: That part of the air supply to a combustion system which the fuel first
encounters.

Secondary air: The second stage of admission of air to a combustion system, generally to
complete combustion initiated by the primary air. It can be injected into the furnace of a
boiler under relatively high pressure when firing solid fuels in order to create turbulence
above the burning fuel to ensure good mixing with the gases produced in the combustion
process and thereby complete combustion

Tertiary air: A third stage of admission of air to a combustion system, the reactions of
which have largely been completed by secondary air. Tertiary air is rarely needed.

Stoichiometric: In combustion technology, stoichiometric air is that quantity of air, and no

more, which is theoretically needed to burn completely a unit quantity of fuel. Sub-
stoichiometric refers to the partial combustion of fuel in a deficiency of air

Balanced draught: The condition achieved when the pressure of the gas in a furnace is the
same as or slightly below that of the atmosphere in the enclosure or building housing it.

Gross calorific value (GCV): The amount of heat liberated by the complete combustion,
under specified conditions, by a unit volume of a gas or of a unit mass of a solid or liquid
fuel, in the determination of which the water produced by combustion of the fuel is assumed
to be completely condensed and its latent and sensible heat made available.

Net calorific value (NCV): The amount of heat generated by the complete combustion,
under specified conditions, by a unit volume of a gas or of a unit mass of a solid or liquid
fuel, in the determination of which the water produced by the combustion of the fuel is
assumed to remain as vapour.

Absolute pressure The sum of the gauge and the atmospheric pressure. For instance, if
the steam gauge on the boiler shows 9 kg/cm2g the absolute pressure of the steam is 10
kg/cm2(a).

Atmospheric pressure The pressure due to the weight of the atmosphere. It is expressed in
pounds per sq. in. or inches of mercury column or kg/cm2. Atmospheric pressure at sea level
is 14.7 lbs./ sq. inch. or 30 inch mercury column or 760mm of mercury (mm Hg) or 101.325
kilo Pascal (kPa).

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Carbon monoxide (CO): Produced from any source that burns fuel with incomplete
combustion, causes chest pain in heart patients, headaches and reduced mental alertness.

Blow down: The removal of some quantity of water from the boiler in order to achieve an
acceptable concentration of dissolved and suspended solids in the boiler water.

Complete combustion: The complete oxidation of the fuel, regardless of whether it is

accomplished with an excess amount of oxygen or air, or just the theoretical amount required
for perfect combustion.

Perfect combustion: The complete oxidation of the fuel, with the exact theoretical
(stoichiometric) amount of oxygen (air) required.

Saturated steam: It is the steam, whose temperature is equal to the boiling point
corresponding to that pressure.

Wet Steam Saturated steam which contains moisture

Dry Steam Either saturated or superheated steam containing no moisture.

Superheated Steam Steam heated to a temperature above the boiling point or saturation
temperature corresponding to its pressure

Oxygen trim sensor measures flue gas oxygen and a closed loop controller compares the
actual oxygen level to the desired oxygen level. The air (or fuel) flow is trimmed by the
controller until the oxygen level is corrected. The desired oxygen level for each firing rate
must be entered into a characterized set point curve generator. Oxygen Trim maintains the
lowest possible burner excess air level from low to high fire. Burners that dont have Oxygen
Trim must run with Extra Excess Air to allow safe operation during variations in weather,
fuel, and linkage.

Heat transfer mediums

There are different types of heat transfer medium e.g. steam, hot water and thermal oil. Steam
and Hot water are most common and it will be valuable to briefly examine these common
heat transfer mediums and associated properties.

Thermic Fluid

Thermic Fluid is used as a heat transfer mechanism in some industrial process and heating
applications. Thermic Fluid may be a vegetable or mineral based oil and the oil may be raised
to a high temperature without the need for any pressurization. The relatively high flow and
return temperatures may limit the potential for flue gas heat recovery unless some other
system can absorb this heat usefully. Careful design and selection is required to achieve best
energy efficiency.

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

Hot water

Water is a fluid with medium density, high specific heat capacity, low viscosity and relatively
low thermal conductivity. At relatively low temperature e.g. 70oC -90oC, hot water is useful
for smaller heating installations.

Steam

When water is heated its temperature will rise. The heat added is called sensible heat and the
heat content of the water is termed its enthalpy. The usual datum point used to calculate
enthalpy is 0oC.

When the water reaches its boiling point, any further heat input will result in some proportion
of the water changing from the liquid to the vapour state, i.e. changing to steam. The heat
required for this change of state is termed the 'latent heat of evaporation' and is expressed in
terms of a fixed mass of water. Where no change in temperature occurs during the change of
state, the steam will exist in equilibrium with the water. This equilibrium state is termed
'saturation conditions'. Saturation conditions can occur at any pressure, although at each
pressure there is only one discrete temperature at which saturation can occur.

If further heat is applied to the saturated steam the temperature will rise and the steam will
become 'superheated'. Any increase in temperature above saturated conditions will be
accompanied by a further rise in enthalpy.

Steam is useful heat transfer medium because, as a gas, it is compressible. At high pressure
and consequently density, steam can carry large quantities of heat with relatively small
volume.

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 1. Energy Performance Assessment of Boilers

QUESTIONS

1) Define boiler efficiency.

2) Why boiler efficiency by indirect method is more useful than direct method?
3) What instruments are required for indirect efficiency testing?
4) What is the difference between dry flue gas loss and wet flue gas loss?
5) Which is the best location for sampling flue gas analysis?
6) Find out the efficiency by direct method from the data given below.
An oil fired package boiler was tested for 2 hours duration at steady state
condition. The fuel and water consumption were 250 litres and 3500 litres
respectively. The specific gravity of oil is 0.92. The saturated steam generation
pressure is 7 kg/cm2(g). The boiler feed water temperature is 30o C. Determine the
boiler efficiency and evaporation ratio.
7) What is excess air? How to determine excess air if oxygen / carbon dioxide
percentage is measured in the flue gas?
8) As a means of performance evaluation, explain the difference between efficiency
and evaporation ratio.
9) Testing coal-fired boiler is more difficult than oil-fired boiler. Give reasons.
10) What is controllable and uncontrollable losses in a boiler?

REFERENCE:

1. Energy audit Reports of National Productivity Council

2. Energy Hand book, Second edition, Von Nostrand Reinhold Company - Robert
L.Loftness

3. Industrial boilers, Longman Scientific Technical 1999

www.boiler.com

www.eng-tips.com

www.worldenergy.org

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