Startup vents to drain are used to put a FWH in service. Operating vents are always open to the condenser.
Startup vents and drains in power plants are essential for the proper functioning of a Feedwater Heater (FWH) during start-up operations
Startup vents and drains in power plants are essential for the proper functioning of a Feedwater Heater (FWH) during start-up operations. To understand their role, let’s break it down step by step.
1. Feedwater Heaters (FWH):
Feedwater heaters are heat exchangers used in power plants to preheat the water before it enters the boiler. They utilize the waste heat from the turbine exhaust steam to raise the temperature of the incoming feedwater, increasing overall efficiency.
2. Startup Vents:
During start-up, when the power plant is being brought online, the steam turbine is initially cold and the steam in the condenser needs to be removed to create a vacuum. This is where startup vents come into play. Startup vents are valves that allow the steam in the condenser to escape, facilitating the creation and maintenance of a vacuum in the condenser.
3. Startup Drains:
Similarly, startup drains are used to remove any accumulated condensate or liquid from the system during start-up. Condensate water can accumulate in various components, including the condenser, turbine, and associated lines. Startup drains allow this condensate to be purged from the system, preventing any water blockages or potential damage.
4. Open to the Condenser:
Operating vents, as mentioned, are always open to the condenser during start-up to facilitate the removal of steam. By being open to the condenser, these vents provide an outlet for the initial steam as it builds up and is displaced by the incoming feedwater. This continuous release of steam helps maintain the vacuum in the condenser, ensuring efficiency and smooth operation during start-up.
In summary, startup vents and drains play a crucial role in the effective operation of a feedwater heater during start-up operations in power plants. By allowing the removal of steam and condensate, these components help create a vacuum in the condenser and prevent any potential blockages or damage to the system.
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