What is the primary factor in determining the size of a boiler?

The intended steam load or demand is the primary factor in determining the size of a boiler because it directly relates to the amount of steam that needs to be produced to meet the operational requirements of the facility. When sizing a boiler, engineers must consider the maximum steam demand during peak operational times, ensuring that the boiler can efficiently provide sufficient steam without excessive cycling or short cycling.

This allows the system to operate within its designed parameters, maintaining efficiency and safety. If the boiler is too small for the required steam load, it will lead to insufficient steam supply, resulting in poor performance and potential disruptions in operations. Conversely, an oversized boiler could lead to higher operational costs and inefficiencies.

Other factors, while important, are secondary to the steam load. For instance, installation costs, fuel types, and available space are all considerations that follow the primary need for accommodating the specific steam demand effectively.