White paper – Influencing factors and measurement parameters for burner and boiler systems

Boiler systems are essential for generating thermal energy used in power generation, heating, and industrial processes like cement and glass production. They burn fuels such as coal, oil, or gas to produce heat with high efficiency, but also generate large amounts of flue gases. Optimizing boiler systems requires balancing efficiency with minimal pollutant emissions, especially as regulations for NOx, CO, and CO₂ become stricter. Combustion occurs in a sealed chamber, where fuel—solid, liquid, or gas—reacts with oxygen to produce heat, which is transferred via heat exchangers. Flue gases primarily contain water vapor and CO₂, but may also include pollutants like NOx, CO, sulphur compounds, and particulate matter, depending on the fuel and air supply. Understanding combustion processes and controlling parameters is crucial for maximizing efficiency and meeting legal emission standards.