What is the purpose of a feedwater heater?

The purpose of a feedwater heater is to increase the temperature of feedwater before it enters the boiler. By raising the temperature of the water, it improves the overall efficiency of the boiler system. Warmer water requires less energy to convert into steam, which helps to reduce fuel consumption and minimize thermal stress on boiler components. This process also enables quicker steam generation, enhancing the responsiveness of the steam system during varying load conditions. Properly pre-heating the feedwater ensures that the system operates more efficiently and can help in mitigating potential problems like thermal shock when cold water is introduced into the boiler system. The significant enhancement in efficiency and performance is why feedwater heaters are a crucial component in steam generation systems.