Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Boilers are closed vessels used to generate steam for food processing operations. Boiler accessories are devices installed to increase the thermal efficiency and capacity of the boiler.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- An economizer is a heat exchanger that recovers waste heat from the hot flue exhaust gases leaving the boiler.
- It uses this recovered heat to preheat the cold feed water before it enters the boiler drum.
- Because the water enters the boiler at a higher initial temperature, less fuel energy is needed to convert it to steam.
- This significantly increases the boiler's overall thermal efficiency and its steam-raising capacity.
- Water level indicators, pressure gauges, and steam stop valves are safety and control mountings, not efficiency-boosting accessories.
Step 3: Final Answer:
An economizer increases the steam-raising capacity of a boiler by preheating the feed water.