What is the minimum steam flow that should be maintained through the superheater?

Maintaining a minimum steam flow through the superheater is critical to ensure that the temperature of the steam remains stable and that the superheater operates efficiently. The correct answer reflects the established guideline that at least 20% of the boiler's capacity should be maintained as steam flow through the superheater. This percentage is necessary to prevent overheating and potential damage to the superheater tubes, as insufficient flow can lead to a buildup of heat without adequate removal, risking structural integrity and operational safety.

Additionally, ensuring a minimum steam flow helps in effectively managing the thermal distribution within the system and contributes to more efficient overall boiler operation. It prevents the potential issues that could arise from inadequate flow, such as localized overheating, which can lead to reduced performance or even failure of the superheater components.