Suggested Daily Boiler Log Program
Summary: The following article is a part of National Board Classic Series.
The following instrument readings, as appropriate to the specific boiler system, need to be taken daily for low-pressure heating boilers and at least once per eight-hour shift for high-pressure boilers. These readings must be recorded in the boiler log.
NOTE: It is very important that the boiler log be kept in a consistent format, in order for trends to be perceived and followed with preventive action. Standard forms are available for this purpose; however, the log may be more useful if the log form is customized for the particular installation.
GENERAL
- Air compressor, control pressure (psig)
- Outdoor air temperature (degrees F)
- City water supply pressure (psig)
BOILER
- Boiler(s) in service
- Fuel in use
- Operating time (hours)
- Operating cycles(number)
- Amount of fuel on hand
- Boiler water level (normal, low, high)
- Firing level (rate)
- Flame condition (observed)
- Boiler pressure (psig)
- Boiler water temperature, hot water (degrees F)
- Stack temperature, net (degrees F)
GAS FUEL
- Pilot gas pressure (inches WC)
- Burner gas pressure (ounces/square inch or psig)
- Gas used (cubic feet)
OIL FUEL
- Oil pump in service
- Vacuum at oil pump (inches Hg)
- Oil pressure at pump (psig)
- Oil pressure at burner (psig)
- Oil pressure at regulating valve (psig)
- Atomizing medium pressure, air, steam (psig)
CONDENSATE SYSTEM (steam boilers)
- Boiler feed pump in service
- Condensate return temperature (degrees F)
- Water level in condensate tank (normal, low, high)
- Make up water rate (gallons)
FORCED HOT WATER CIRCULATION SYSTEM
- Circulating pumps in service
- Return water temperature (degrees F)
- Water level in expansion tank (normal, high, low)
BOILER WATER TREATMENT
- Level of chemicals in treatment tank
- Treatment pump in service (low, normal)
- Boiler water samply taken
MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR OPERATIONS
- These operations should be recorded in the log
Editor's note: Some ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code requirements may have changed because of advances in material technology and/or actual experience. The reader is cautioned to refer to the latest edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code for current requirements.