Under what condition can the size of bottom blow down lines be reduced?

The decision to maintain the size of bottom blowdown lines is important for ensuring the proper performance and safety of a boiler system. The size of bottom blowdown lines is typically determined by the need to efficiently remove sediment and impurities from the bottom of the boiler, ensuring safe operation and functioning. If these lines are undersized, it could lead to pressure build-up, inadequate blowdown, or failure to remove contaminants effectively.

Maintaining the standard size is necessary regardless of operational conditions, as flow rates and system design need to remain consistent to avoid potential issues. Furthermore, reducing the size of these lines could compromise their function and increase the risk of backpressure or inadequate blowdown, which can ultimately affect boiler safety and efficiency.

Therefore, the requirement for retaining bottom blowdown line size is founded in operational safety and system design integrity, which is why they cannot be reduced.