Before operating manually controlled sootblowers on a boiler, what should be done first?

In the process of preparing to operate manually controlled sootblowers on a boiler, opening the drain to remove condensate should be prioritized. This step is essential because water accumulation from condensate can interfere with the operation of the sootblower. If water is present, it may cause damage to the sootblower system or create safety hazards, such as steam explosions or inefficient soot removal. By ensuring that any condensate is properly drained before operation, you are taking the necessary precautions to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the sootblowing process.

Other steps, while important, do not address the immediate need to ensure a dry operating environment for the sootblowers. Checking the pressure gauge is useful for understanding system conditions but does not mitigate risks associated with condensate. Opening the steam supply valve is necessary for the operation of the sootblower but should only be done once it is confirmed that there is no condensate present. Closing the main fuel supply is a safety measure that might be invoked as part of an emergency stop procedure or maintenance, but it is not a preliminary action for preparing sootblowers for use. Hence, removing condensate effectively prepares the system for safe and efficient operation.