Following preventive actions shall be taken against the Boiler Uptake fire -
Soot Blowers : Soot blowing should be carried out on regular basis to ensure soot and ash deposits do not build up on tubes. It should be carried out more frequently when the engine is operating at low loads or when fuel has high ash content. It should be carried out after water washing of main engine turbocharger (water side).
Water Washing of Exhaust gas Boiler : The combustion of residual fuel results in formation of slag. These slag gradually build up on the boiler tubes. Soot blowing keeps these deposits at low levels, however it does not reach all areas of boiler. These slag are soluble in water and can be removed by hot water washing.
• Regularly inspect boiler flame to ensure correct air fuel ratio is maintained. This makes complete combustion with clean flue gas.
• Carry out boiler burner maintenances as per PMS.
• Use proper grade of fuel oil for boiler.
• Fuel oil used for boiler to be treated well.
• Avoid low load operation of boiler for long period.
• Running boiler near full load periodically, helps in expelling out carbon deposits adhered in uptake passages and reduces chances of boiler uptake fire considerably.
