Why is it important to monitor draft in a boiler?

Monitoring draft in a boiler is crucial primarily to ensure proper combustion and prevent flue gas leaks. Draft is the flow of flue gases through the boiler and its exhaust system, and it plays a vital role in maintaining the optimal conditions for combustion. When the draft is too positive or too negative, it can lead to inadequate combustion of the fuel, resulting in incomplete combustion which not only reduces efficiency but also increases harmful emissions.

Furthermore, an improper draft can allow flue gases to leak back into the boiler room or other areas, posing safety hazards such as carbon monoxide exposure. By maintaining the correct draft level, operators can ensure that the air-to-fuel ratio stays within the desired limits, facilitating efficient burning of fuel and effective removal of combustion gases from the boiler system.

This monitoring helps prevent dangerous situations and creates a more efficient and environmentally compliant operation. Other choices, while important aspects of boiler operations, do not focus specifically on the critical relationship between draft and safe combustion processes.