Boiler Blog | Nationwide Boiler Inc.

Boilers are important components in many industrial settings and ensuring their longevity and efficiency requires proper maintenance, even during out-of-service periods. To prevent corrosion and other forms of damage when a boiler is offline, it is important to protect both the fireside and waterside of the boiler. There are two methods in achieving this – the dry method and the wet method.

Dry Storage

When a boiler is expected to be out of operation for an extended period of time and needs to be ready for service quickly, dry storage is advised. The dry storage method for industrial boilers involves draining, thoroughly cleaning, drying, and sealing the boiler to prevent moisture and air entry during extended periods of inactivity.

NOTE: If you are placing your boiler in storage for less than one month, follow steps 1 and 2 only. Be sure to follow your company guidelines and, at a minimum, label it as an oxygen-free atmosphere.

The following general procedure is advised for placing a unit into dry storage:

1. Shut down and secure the boiler. Once the pressure decreases to 20 psig, drain the boiler and header valves under air. Once the pressure is reduced to 0, open the drums to allow air to circulate and facilitate the drying of all internal surfaces.

2. If the unit is cold and filled with water, drain it under air, blow out non-drainable tubes with compressed air, and use external heat sources to aid in drying internal surfaces. Install non-porous trays with moisture absorbent (preferably silica gel) into the drums, ensuring they don't touch the drum's metal surface. Use at least one pound of absorbent per 1,000 pounds per hour of steam capacity.

3. Attach nitrogen to the steam drum vent, close all other vents, and pressurize the boiler to reach 10-15 psig with nitrogen, adjusting the amount based on the unit's volume.

4. With the boiler and superheater pressurized, alternately open all drains to purge air until the pressure drops to zero, repeating as needed to minimize oxygen levels.

5. The unit should now be stored with a nitrogen pressure of 5-10 psig in the steam drum. To maintain this pressure, ensure all connections and valves are sealed or tightly closed, and check the gas pressure daily for proper protection.

6. Boiler inspections are recommended every 3 months to ensure no corrosion is occurring and to replenish the absorbent as needed. During these inspections, air will enter the unit so you will need to repeat steps 3 and 4 to expel the air.

Wet Method

Wet storage prevents corrosion by keeping the boiler fully submerged with the right chemicals. Volatile chemicals are recommended to avoid increasing dissolved solids in the water.

The following general procedure is advised for placing a unit into wet storage:

1. Fill the boiler with deaerated, demineralized water treated with 200 ppm hydrazine and enough ammonia to reach a pH of 10.

2. Pre-mixing chemicals with water is recommended, using the blend-fill method to ensure uniform distribution in the boiler. Simply adding chemicals through the drum manhead may not adequately disperse them unless the boiler is heated to induce circulation.

3. Fill the unit with treated, demineralized water up to the normal centerline of the steam drum, then stop the filling process.

4. Refill the superheater with treated demineralized water until the steam drum level rises. Keep filling until water starts to flow from the steam drum vents. Once the filling is complete, make sure all connections are securely sealed.

5. Attach a low-pressure nitrogen source to the steam drum to maintain 5 to 10 psig and prevent air from entering the unit during storage.

6. When the boiler is ready for use, drain the superheater and the boiler drum to the normal start-up water level and resume operation.

7. Analyze the treated demineralized water weekly and add chemicals as needed through the chemical feed line to maintain recommended levels. Water samples can be collected from the continuous blowdown line or a suitable drain.

8. A boiler should not be stored wet if there is any risk of temperatures dropping to freezing, unless adequate heating is provided. Adequate heating will prevent water from freezing and avoid damage to the pressure parts.

Protection of External Surfaces:

Protection of external surfaces is also necessary during periods of extended downtime. Fireside corrosion in idle boilers can cause damage to components due to sulfuric acid from flue dust and ash. To mitigate this, remove deposits using air blasting, washing, scraping, or brushing, and neutralize any residual acid with alkaline water until the water is fully neutralized. Once flushing is complete, fill the boiler with treated water and fire it with low sulfur fuel to ensure complete drying.

Auxiliary heaters and blowers may be needed during storage to keep the metal temperature above the dew point and prevent freezing, especially with wet storage in cold conditions. Additionally, protect machined surfaces with preservative coatings and ensure there are no fuel leaks by disconnecting all oil and gas connections.

The choice between dry and wet storage depends on different factors. Although wet storage is often preferred, factors such as water quality, weather conditions, storage duration, and heat availability may make dry storage a more practical option. Be sensible when considering the conditions and needs of your boiler and choose the best storage method to ensure your equipment remains in excellent condition and is ready for use when needed.

In honor of National Safety Month, our next safety topic is focused on preventing slips, trips, and falls which are common causes of workplace injuries. Below are some essential steps you can take to mitigate these risks and ensure a safer workplace.

Keep Work Areas Tidy: Ensure that all work areas are free from clutter. Clean and organized spaces significantly reduce the risk of tripping by minimizing obstacles that could cause falls. Inspect and tidy up your workspace, making it a habit to return tools and materials to their designated storage areas. This practice not only enhances safety but also improves overall efficiency and productivity.

Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of waste materials promptly and place them in designated bins. Proper waste disposal supports environmental sustainability efforts by facilitating recycling and reducing landfill waste. Remember, a tidy work area is a safer and more efficient one.

Immediate Cleanup of Leaks and Spills: Clean up any spills or leaks immediately to prevent slippery surfaces. Prompt action is crucial in preventing potential accidents and maintaining a safe work environment. Leaving spills unattended can lead to slips, trips, and falls, which are among the most common workplace injuries. Ensure that you use appropriate cleaning materials and methods for different types of spills to effectively remove the hazard.

Wear Appropriate Footwear: Use suitable footwear, such as anti-slip shoes, and ensure compliance with protective footwear requirements, especially in shop and service areas. Remember, proper footwear is a key component of personal protective equipment (PPE) and plays a vital role in injury prevention.

Manage Cords and Cables: Keep cords and cables out of walkways and use covers or secure them to avoid creating tripping hazards. Loose or improperly managed cables can cause someone to trip and fall, leading to potential injuries and disruptions in the workplace. By ensuring that cords and cables are neatly arranged, you help maintain a clear and hazard-free walking area.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of your environment and focus on your tasks. Awareness is key to avoiding accidents. Staying alert of your surroundings helps you identify potential hazards before they become problems. This includes being aware of the location of equipment, other people, and any changes in the environment that might present new risks.

Adapt to Weather Conditions: Adjust your work practices according to the weather conditions. Exercise extra caution on wet or icy surfaces. Weather can impact workplace safety, so it's important to adapt your routines accordingly to minimize risks.

If you see a hazard with the potential to cause a slip, trip, or fall, take immediate action to address it and do not wait for someone to intervene.  By following these guidelines, we can create a safer workplace for everyone. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and your actions play a vital role in safeguarding the work environment.

Celebrate National Safety month with us and stay tuned for another safety topic next week!

National Safety Month, observed each June, is an annual campaign that is dedicated to raising awareness about the leading cause of preventable injuries and deaths. Sponsored by the National Safety Council (NSC), this month-long event is focused on enhancing safety in homes, workplaces, and communities through education and advocacy. By emphasizing proactive measures and fostering a culture of safety, National Safety Month aims to protect lives and promote well-being across the nation.

In alignment with the NCS’s approach, Nationwide Boiler will also be dedicating each week of June to a specific safety topic and strives to share this information to a wider audience. Last week we focused on ergonomics in the workplace.

Ensure Proper Posture: Maintaining correct posture is crucial for safeguarding your back. Many individuals tend to slouch or hunch over their desks while working without realizing it. While seated, maintain a natural slight arch with your back, ensuring your head and shoulders remain erect. If necessary, customize your chair to have relaxed elbows, comfortable hand placement on the table or desk, knees bent at a 90-degree angle, and feet flat on the floor.

Establish An Ergonomic Workplace: The work environment significantly influences your comfort and musculoskeletal well-being. It is important to remember not to adapt your body to the workplace, but to tailor your workspace to accommodate your body. Make sure your computer screen is positioned at eye level to eliminate the need for leaning forward. Invest in ergonomic office equipment engineered to offer back support and encourage correct posture.

Incorporate Regular Breaks: Make sure to take regular breaks during your workday to boost productivity and overall well-being. Set aside a few minutes every hour to get up and do some light stretching exercises. You can start by placing your hands on your lower back and gently arching backward to relieve tension. Additionally, consider taking short walks to the break room, another spot in your remote workspace, or around the office to break up your sitting time.

Work In A Comfortable Position: Whenever possible, position your work materials at waist height to reduce strain. Arrange your workspace to keep essential items easily accessible and within reach. Another option is using adjustable furniture and workstations to accommodate varying needs and preferences for a comfortable working posture.

Prioritize Safe Lifting: To prevent strain on your back, refrain from bending or twisting when lifting objects. Instead, bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting items from the floor to ensure safe handling. It is important to seek assistance when handling heavier loads or utilize lifting aids to reduce strain and minimize the risk of injuries.

Selection Of Tools: Go for tools equipped with ergonomically designed handles that feel comfortable to hold, thus reducing strain during extended use. Selecting the appropriate tool for each task not only boosts efficiency but also lowers the chances of experiencing repetitive strain injuries and discomfort.

As we wrap up our focus on ergonomics, we emphasize the importance of caring for your body by creating a comfortable workspace for long-term health and productivity. Nationwide Boiler prioritizes the safety of our employees and will continue to share valuable insights to foster a safe culture. Celebrate National Safety month with us and stay tuned for another safety topic next week!

Last month Nationwide Boiler hosted our 43^rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links and it was another great success! Drawing in participants from across the nation, the event gathered a diverse and enthusiastic crowd ready to support two great causes.

The tournament kicked off with a practice round and a scramble competition at Poppy Hills Golf Course, where the golfers enjoyed pleasant sunshine throughout the day. As evening approached, golfers and guests gathered for a welcome reception to enjoy drinks and appetizers, socialize, and purchase tickets for the highly anticipated raffle for 1 oz. of gold. Our tournament round took place the following morning at Pebble Beach Golf Links followed by a Hawaiian Luau themed awards banquet and buffet dinner later in the evening.

At the awards banquet, guests donned floral Hawaiian attire with real orchid leis while enjoying live island music by the Ho ‘Omana Trio. Guests also participated in online and live auction events as well as our unique Deck of Cards Raffle.  Don Thiry was our big winner that night, taking home the raffle prize of 1 oz. of gold in addition to having the winning card for the Deck of Cards Raffle! However, in a surprising twist of events, he sold his winning card for $200 and the remaining $800 prize was generously donated back to the charities. These acts highlight the sportsmanship and goodwill that make our tournament special.

In addition to the fun and fundraising activities of the banquet that evening, Nationwide Boiler’s President and CEO, Larry Day, announced the winners of the tournament. Matt Whittington of Hurst Boiler took home the Callaway Flight Championship, Mitch Frank of HTS took home the Handicap Flight Championship, and Geoff Wilkinson Jr. of GT Wilkinson Companies took home the Low Gross Championship. Nationwide Boiler’s Jack Valentine took home the award for Closest to the Pin, and, for the first time in the history of this tournament, Longest Drive was awarded to a women golfer, Emily Forth of Tulsa Heaters Midstream.

With the aim of benefiting two impactful causes, Make-A-Wish® Greater Bay Area and ABMA’s Randy Rawson Scholarship Fund, the tournament was a resounding success with a total amount raised exceeding $63,000! This achievement was made possible by the support of roughly 100 attendees and the generous contributions of nearly 60 sponsors and donors. Nationwide Boiler is proud to continue raising funds for these two great organizations, and we extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the event this year.

Make-A-Wish® Greater Bay Area is all about making dreams come true for children facing critical illnesses, giving them unforgettable experiences and much-needed hope.  This chapter serves 17 counties in Northern California and has granted over 9,500 wishes to date, providing approximately 350 life-changing wishes each year. The ABMA’s Randy Rawson Scholarship Fund supports students aiming for careers in the boiler industry. This fund plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of professionals in this important field by offering scholarships that ease the financial burden of education.

Save the Date! Our 44^th Annual Pebble Beach Charity Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 7 – 8, 2025 at Pebble Beach and Spanish Bay. As we reflect on the memories made and the differences we created, we extend our deepest thanks to all who participated in making this event a success. We look forward to another incredible tournament next year!