How should a manual soot blower be operated for effective use?

Operating a manual soot blower with the boiler on high fire and proper steam pressure is essential for effective use. When the soot blower is activated under these conditions, the high fire ensures that the temperatures within the boiler are sufficient to allow the steam to efficiently travel through the soot blower’s nozzles. This high-velocity steam blast effectively loosens and blows off accumulated soot and ash from the boiler tubes.

Operating under these circumstances not only helps maintain optimal boiler efficiency but also reduces the risk of damaging the boiler equipment. Effective soot removal is particularly important to prevent heat transfer inefficiencies, which can arise from soot buildup. Maintaining proper steam pressure is critical for ensuring the soot blower operates at peak performance, maximizing the steam's cleaning ability.

This method contrasts with other options, which may not provide the necessary conditions for effective soot removal.