How often are sootblowers for economizers and air preheaters used when firing coal?

Sootblowers are essential devices used in steam generation and power plants, primarily to maintain the efficiency and performance of heat exchange equipment such as economizers and air preheaters. When coal is used as a fuel, it tends to produce soot and ash that can accumulate on the heat exchange surfaces. This buildup can significantly reduce the thermal efficiency of the equipment by acting as an insulative layer, hindering heat transfer.

Using sootblowers daily ensures that any accumulation of soot and ash is removed before it has a chance to significantly impede performance. Regular use helps to maintain optimal heat transfer rates, contributing to better combustion efficiency and reduced fuel costs. Additionally, this practice helps prolong the life of the equipment by preventing overheating and subsequent damage caused by soot buildup.

Given the operating conditions associated with coal-fired systems, daily operation of sootblowers is a standard practice to maintain efficient plant operations and adhere to safety and performance standards.