What happens if the condensate isn't drained from the soot blower steam supply before use?

If condensate isn't drained from the soot blower steam supply before use, it could warp and break the soot blower elements. This occurs because steam contains a large amount of energy, and if the steam is not dry (meaning it contains a significant amount of condensate), the presence of water droplets can lead to uneven heating and thermal stress on the components. When steam enters the soot blower, it should be in a dry vapor state to ensure efficient operation and prevent any potential damage.

Condensate can condense on the soot blower components, leading to localized heating and cooling cycles that may exceed the material's thermal limits. This could ultimately result in warping, cracking, or breaking of the soot blower elements, compromising the equipment's integrity and functionality. Thus, it's crucial to ensure that the steam is adequately drained of any condensate before use to maintain the performance and longevity of the soot blower system.