What are the consequences of low water levels in a boiler?

Low water levels in a boiler significantly impact its operation and safety. When water levels drop too low, the boiler can become overheated because the heating surfaces are not adequately covered by water. This overheating can lead to damage in several ways: the metal parts of the boiler can warp or rupture, which compromises the integrity of the system. Additionally, when the boiler reaches dangerously low water levels, it can potentially cause a critical failure, resulting in a boiler explosion due to the rapid buildup of pressure without the cooling effect provided by water.

Proper water levels are essential for maintaining safe and efficient boiler operation. The water not only absorbs heat but also helps to maintain consistent steam quality. Therefore, low water levels disrupt all aspects of the boiler's operation, leading to severe consequences that affect both operational efficiency and safety.