How often should the water column in the gauge glass be blown down?

The water column in the gauge glass should be blown down once per shift to ensure accurate water level readings and proper functioning of the gauge. Blowing down the water column helps to remove any sediment, debris, or impurities that may accumulate over time, which can affect the accuracy of the gauge. By performing this task once per shift, operators can maintain essential visibility into the water level, which is critical for safe and efficient boiler operation.

Frequent checks, like blowing down every hour or twice a day, may be excessive and could lead to unnecessary wear on the equipment while still failing to provide a practical balance between maintenance and operational efficiency. Weekly blowdowns may not be sufficient to keep the gauge clear and functioning accurately, especially in environments where the water quality may lead to quicker buildup. Thus, blowing down the water column once per shift is the recommended practice for maintaining the integrity of the gauge glass readings.