EXPERIMENT 2: Investigation of Boiler Efficiency

Introduction:
Boilers play a pivotal role in industries worldwide, providing steam or hot water for various
processes, from heating to power generation. Maximizing boiler efficiency is paramount for
optimizing energy usage and reducing operational costs. This experiment focuses on determining
the efficiency of a boiler through precise measurement of its heat input and heat output.
Objective:
The primary objective of this experiment is to calculate the efficiency of a boiler by quantifying
its heat input and heat output, considering factors like fuel composition, combustion efficiency,
and steam properties.
Theory: Boiler efficiency is a measure of how effectively a boiler converts fuel into usable
energy. It is typically expressed as a percentage and is calculated by dividing the heat output by
the heat input. The heat input to the boiler is determined by measuring the fuel consumption rate
and its calorific value. The heat output is calculated by measuring the steam flow rate and
determining the enthalpy change of the steam.
Various factors influence boiler efficiency, including combustion efficiency, heat transfer
efficiency, and radiation losses. Combustion efficiency depends on factors like fuel-air ratio,
excess air, and combustion chamber design. Heat transfer efficiency is affected by the design and
condition of heat transfer surfaces, such as tubes or plates, while radiation losses occur through
the boiler shell.
Apparatus
Experimental Procedure:
 1. We measured and record the fuel consumption rate using a flow meter.
2. We determined the calorific value of the fuel using its chemical composition.
3. We measured the steam flow rate accurately.
4. We determined the enthalpy change of the steam using a steam table or direct
measurement of temperature and pressure.
5. We calculated the heat input and heat output of the boiler.
6. We calculated the efficiency of the boiler using the formula: Efficiency (%) = (Heat
Output / Heat Input) × 100

RESULTS.
Tim P1 T1 T3 Fuel H20 hx Efficienc
e consumed(l/10mi boiled(l/10mi y
n) n) %
0 6. 141. 26. 6954.0 2697.2 14 81.3
0 3 5 0
2 2. 126. 26. 24 79.1
2 1 4 0
4 1. 120. 26. 18 78
6 8 6 0
6 1. 119. 26. 15 77.9
5 6 4 0
8 1. 118. 26. 12 77.4
5 3 7 5
10 1. 107. 26. 6955.5 2698.6 10 75.1
4 1 7 0
12 0. 108. 26. 14 75.3
8 1 7 0
14 0. 105. 26. 17 74.5
6 0 8 0
16 0. 104. 26. 40 74.4
5 7 8
18 0. 106. 27. 0 74.4
6 0 1
20 0. 104. 27. 6957.0 2699.8 0 74.1
7 8 1
22 0. 104. 27. 0 73.9
6 9 3
24 0. 105. 27. 0 73.8
6 2 6
 26 0. 105. 28. 0 73.1
7 0 2
28 0. 104. 27. 0 73.4
6 4 8
30 0. 105. 28. 6958.5 2701.1 0 73.3
6 4 0

Efficiency in%

Discussion: Time in seconds

Accurate measurement techniques and precise data
recording are crucial for obtaining reliable efficiency values. Factors such as incomplete
combustion, fouling of heat transfer surfaces, and inadequate insulation can lead to energy losses
and lower efficiency. Additionally, variations in operating conditions, such as load fluctuations
and ambient temperature changes, can affect boiler performance and efficiency.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, boiler efficiency is a critical parameter for assessing boiler performance and
optimizing energy utilization in industrial applications. This experiment demonstrates the
importance of accurately measuring heat input and heat output to calculate boiler efficiency.
Understanding the factors influencing boiler efficiency allows for the identification of potential
areas for improvement, leading to enhanced energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and
environmental sustainability.
REFERENCES.
1.R. K. Hanson and P. K. Falcone, “Temperature measurement technique for high temperature
gases using a tunable diode laser,” Appl. Opt., vol.17, pp. 2477–2480, 197
2. M. G. Allen, “Diode laser absorption sensors for gas dynamic and combustion flows,” Meas.
Sci. Technol.,