Where should the deareator be positioned in relation to the feed water pump?

The correct positioning of the deaerator in relation to the feed water pump is critical to ensure proper operation and efficiency of the system. Positioning the deaerator a minimum of 30 feet above the feed water pump is necessary to provide sufficient pressure head to the feed water pump. This height helps to ensure that the pump can effectively handle the flow of deaerated water without cavitation, which can occur if the pump is forced to lift water from a lower level.

By placing the deaerator at this elevation, it also assists in maintaining the desired pressure within the system and ensures that all dissolved gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide) are effectively removed before the water is fed into the boiler system. This design consideration contributes to the longevity and efficiency of boilers by preventing corrosion and scaling that can result from these gases.

The requirement of a minimum height above the feed water pump is a standard practice in steamfitting and boiler operations, as it directly addresses the physics of fluid dynamics in closed systems. Lower elevations might not provide enough pressure profile to ensure effective operation of the pump, leading to potential inefficiencies or mechanical failures.