What control is often used to ensure sufficient water levels in high-capacity boilers?

Float control systems are widely employed to maintain appropriate water levels in high-capacity boilers due to their reliability and effectiveness in automation. These systems work by using a buoyant device that floats on the surface of the water; as the water level changes, the float moves, which in turn opens or closes a valve to either add water to the boiler or prevent overflow. This automatic control is crucial for ensuring that the boiler operates efficiently and safely, as maintaining the correct water level is essential to prevent overheating, steam generation issues, and potential damage to the boiler.

In contrast, manual gauge readings require constant supervision and can lead to human error; if an operator does not regularly check the gauge, it may result in unsafe water levels going unnoticed. Pressure relief valves play a vital role in managing excess pressure within the boiler system but do not directly regulate water levels. Similarly, thermal expansion valves address issues related to temperature variations and the resultant expansion of water but are not designed to control water levels within the boiler system itself. Therefore, the use of float control systems represents the most effective and automated solution for ensuring adequate water levels in high-capacity boilers.