Plant Operation Practice Test

The positioning combustion control system is sensitive to changes in what parameter?

1. Water temperature

2. Steam header pressure

3. Feedwater quality

4. Fuel mixture

The correct answer is: Steam header pressure

The positioning combustion control system is particularly sensitive to steam header pressure because it directly affects the efficiency and effectiveness of the combustion process within a boiler or combustion chamber. Steam header pressure reflects the demand for steam by the system and the overall steam generation process. When header pressure fluctuates, the combustion control system must adjust the fuel flow and combustion air supply to maintain optimal combustion conditions and ensure efficiency. In a well-functioning system, maintaining appropriate steam header pressure is critical because it ensures that the steam generation meets the process needs without causing excess emissions or fuel waste. A deviation in steam header pressure can lead to incomplete combustion, reduced energy efficiency, and potential safety hazards. Other parameters like water temperature, feedwater quality, and fuel mixture are also important but typically influence other aspects of operation or system performance rather than being the primary factor that a positioning combustion control system must respond to in real-time.