What is the purpose of feed water heaters?

The purpose of feed water heaters is to recover waste heat from other processes, such as exhaust gases or steam, and use it to raise the temperature of feed water before it enters the boiler. This process enhances overall system efficiency by minimizing the energy required to heat the water in the boiler, ultimately leading to reduced fuel consumption and increased thermal efficiency.

In boiler systems, using feed water heaters also supports the prevention of thermal shock to the boiler and improves the overall performance and lifespan of the system. By preheating the water, less energy is needed to achieve optimal temperature and pressure conditions for steam generation, which is a critical aspect of effective steamfitting practices.

The other choices relate to different functions not associated with the primary purpose of feed water heaters. For instance, increasing boiler pressure is achieved through different means, such as by adjusting valves and controls rather than through the heating process. Filtration of impurities is primarily managed by water treatment systems rather than feed water heaters. Lastly, while energy efficiency might result in reduced electrical consumption indirectly, the direct function of feed water heaters pertains to heat recovery and raising water temperatures, not directly minimizing electrical use.