What are the main components of a boiler feedwater system?

• A. Feedwater pump, deaerator or feedwater heater, economizer, control valves, piping, and control instrumentation (level and flow sensors).
• B. Only feedwater pump and piping.
• C. Only deaerator.
• D. Only economizer.

Answer: (A)

A boiler feedwater system needs a complete set of components to move water into the boiler safely, remove corrosive gases, recover heat, and monitor operation. The feedwater pump provides the pressure to push water into the boiler. The deaerator removes dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide that would cause corrosion, and a feedwater heater or deaerator raises water temperature to improve efficiency. An economizer captures waste heat from flue gases to preheat the feedwater, boosting overall efficiency. Control valves regulate the amount and pressure of feedwater, while the piping connects all parts. Instrumentation such as level and flow sensors monitors water behavior to keep operation safe and stable. Together, these elements form a complete feedwater system, which is why this comprehensive option is the correct one. Omitting any of these components would leave the system incomplete and less effective.