All Topics
Periodic Maintenance
Weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance tasks. Tube cleaning, valve testing, inspections.
Weekly / Monthly Tasks
Periodic maintenance catches developing problems before they become emergencies.
- Test safety valve(s) by lifting the try lever (when at operating pressure)
- Test the high-limit pressure control (pressuretrol)
- Check water treatment chemical levels and adjust as needed
- Inspect fuel system components (filters, regulators, valves)
- Check and lubricate feedwater pumps and other mechanical equipment
- Review operating logs for trends (pressure, temperature, fuel use)
Annual / Shutdown Maintenance
Major maintenance is performed during planned shutdowns.
- Fireside cleaning: remove soot and combustite from tubes and heating surfaces
- Waterside cleaning: remove scale and deposits from internal surfaces
- Inspect tubes for corrosion, pitting, bulging, or leaks
- Inspect refractory for cracks or deterioration
- Inspect and test safety valves — replace if needed
- Hydrostatic test if required by inspector
- Prepare boiler for internal inspection by the authorized inspector
Boiler Layup
When a boiler is taken out of service for an extended period, proper layup prevents corrosion damage.
- Wet layup: boiler filled completely with treated water + oxygen scavenger. For shorter periods (< 30 days).
- Dry layup: boiler drained, dried, and sealed with desiccant (moisture absorber). For longer periods.
- Nitrogen blanket: fill with nitrogen gas to displace oxygen — premium corrosion protection
- The threshold between wet and dry layup is typically around 30 days