What role does a strainer play in a feedwater system?

A strainer plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and performance of a feedwater system by removing particulates and debris from the water. Feedwater systems are designed to supply water to boilers and other equipment where purity and clarity are essential to prevent damage or inefficiencies.

By filtering out unwanted solids and contaminants, the strainer protects downstream components such as pumps, valves, and boilers from wear, corrosion, and fouling. This helps ensure a reliable flow of clean water, which is vital for operational safety and system longevity.

The other functions listed, such as adding chemicals, increasing pressure, or measuring flow rate, pertain to different components or systems within the feedwater treatment process rather than the specific role of a strainer. Thus, the primary and fundamental purpose of a strainer in this context is to effectively clean the feedwater by eliminating harmful particulates, making it indispensable in ensuring the overall health of the feedwater system.