In boiler operation, what does 'cutting-in' mean?

Cutting-in refers to the process of carefully switching on additional boilers to meet the increased demand for steam or hot water in a heating system. This action is typically done to ensure that the system can maintain an appropriate supply of energy without being overstressed. By bringing additional boilers online, the operator can manage load more effectively, prevent overheating or undue wear on existing equipment, and optimize performance across the boiler system.

This operation requires careful monitoring and control to ensure that the transition to additional boilers is smooth and that the total output matches the heating requirements without creating imbalances in pressure or temperature. Understanding the principles behind cutting-in is vital for efficient boiler management and prevents potential issues like system inefficiencies or breakdowns.