What is the function of an economizer in a boiler system?

The primary function of an economizer in a boiler system is to preheat the incoming feed water by recovering waste heat from the flue gases that exit the boiler. By transferring some of this waste heat to the feed water before it enters the boiler, the economizer improves overall system efficiency. This process reduces the amount of fuel needed to reach the required steam temperature and pressure, as the preheated water requires less energy to achieve the desired state.

This enhanced efficiency results in lower operational costs and reduced fuel consumption, making the system more environmentally friendly by decreasing emissions. Understanding the role of the economizer is crucial for optimizing boiler performance and energy savings in industrial applications.