What should be done before starting combustion in a boiler?

Before starting combustion in a boiler, purging the combustion area is a critical step to ensure safety and efficiency. This process involves the removal of any flammable gases, air, or residual unburned fuel from the combustion chamber. By purging the area, you help to minimize the risk of explosion or inefficient combustion that could arise from these materials being present when the burner is ignited.

Purging typically involves blowing in air or using fans to displace any potentially hazardous gases. This step is vital to create a safe environment before introducing fuel and ignition, ensuring that the boiler operates as intended without any danger of backfire or incomplete combustion.

Conducting a purge can also help to establish optimal conditions for combustion, leading to better control over the combustion process, reduced emissions, and improved overall boiler performance. Skipping this step or proceeding without purging can lead to unsafe operating conditions or reduced efficiency and reliability of the boiler system.