For boilers installed in unheated boiler rooms or outdoor settings (common in oil refineries), winter is a dangerous time. Frozen pipes can burst, causing tens of thousands in damage.
The Danger Zones
-
Sensing Lines: The small copper tubes connecting pressure switches are the first to freeze.
-
Feedwater Pumps: Water left in the pump casing can freeze and crack the casting.
-
Condensate Return: Long outdoor runs are vulnerable.
Key Protection Steps
1. Heat Tracing & Insulation
Ensure all outdoor water lines have electric heat tracing tape. Inspect insulation lagging for tears; wet insulation loses its R-value.
2. The 'Warm Lay-up'
If a boiler is standby, do not let it go cold. Use a small heating coil in the water drum or fire it for 30 minutes every shift to keep water temperature above 20°C.
3. Fuel Oil Precautions
Diesel and Heavy Oil can 'wax' or gel at low temperatures, clogging filters.
- Action: Use tank heaters. Ensure the oil loop pump runs continuously to keep oil moving.
4. Holiday Shutdown Advice
If shutting down completely for holidays: DRAIN IT ALL. Open every drain valve, vent, and handhole. Blow out lines with compressed air.