What is an indicator of a possible problem in a steam boiler system?

Excessive pressure build-up in a steam boiler system is a clear indicator of a potential problem. Boilers are designed to operate within a specific pressure range, and pressure that exceeds this range can suggest issues such as overfiring, mechanical failures, or a malfunctioning safety valve. This can pose significant safety risks, including the potential for an explosion or other catastrophic failures.

Other indicators like insufficient steam production, frequent shutdowns, and unusually high fuel consumption can also signal problems, but they typically suggest different types of issues within the system rather than immediate safety hazards associated with pressure. Insufficient steam production might indicate issues with the heating source or blockages, while frequent shutdowns could point to operational inefficiencies or controls malfunctions. Unusually high fuel consumption often relates to inefficiencies in combustion or heat transfer. While these are all important to monitor, excessive pressure build-up is the most direct and immediate indicator of a serious problem within the boiler system.