What is the function of a header in a boiler system?

The function of a header in a boiler system is to connect boilers together, allowing for the distribution of steam or water among multiple units. Headers serve as large pipes or vessels that equalize pressure and temperature among the connected boilers, creating a more efficient system overall. This connection facilitates balanced operation, ensuring that steam or water is appropriately directed to various components of the system or to different processes requiring heat.

Headers are crucial in systems with multiple boilers, as they help maintain consistent operating conditions and can provide redundancy in supply. This means that if one boiler goes offline for maintenance or repair, the others can compensate, ensuring continued operation without significant loss of service.

While increasing pressure or releasing steam might occur in a boiler system, the direct function of a header is specifically about connection and distribution. Storing fuel is a separate function that does not pertain to the role of the header in a boiler system.