11. Outside temperature. A heating plant load is greatly influenced by outside temperature. Record this temperature for comparison with steam generated and fuel used. These comparative values are useful in determining abnormal fuel consumption and in estimating future requirements.

12. Makeup water. The quantity of makeup water used should be recorded. This enables the operator to note an abnormal increase in makeup water before a dangerous condition develops. Return all possible condensate to the boiler plant; this will save on water and chemicals being used to treat the water.

13. Water Pressure. Feedwater is most important to the safe operation of the boiler plant. The hot-water supply temperature should be recorded. Insufficiently heated water can cause scaling or deposits in a boiler.

14. Hot - water supply temperature. Record the hot-water supply temperature. Insufficiently heated water can cause scaling or deposits in a boiler.

15. Water softeners. Where softeners are employed, you should keep a meter record to inform the shift operator of the time when the units must be regenerated. A decrease in the time of runs between regeneration is an indicator of either an increase in hardness of incoming water or of deterioration of the softening material. The note columns are for recording total water softened and pounds of salt added.

16. Totals and averages. Space is provided for recording total and average quantities per shift.

17. Steam flow. To find the quantity of steam generated, subtract the steam flowmeter integrator reading at the start of shift from the reading at the end of the shift, then multiply the remainder by the meter constant. Dividing steam generated by fuel burned (pounds of coal, cubic feet of gas, or gallons of oil) yields a quantity that indicates the overall economy obtained. If the plant does not have a steam flowmeter, pumps can be calibrated for flow and a record kept of their operating time, or the condensate and makeup water can be metered.

18. Boiler feed pump in service. A record of the boiler feed pump in service makes it possible to determine appropriate operating hours and to see that the various pumps are used for equal lengths of service.

19. Soot blown time and blowdown. A record of blown time and blowdown is valuable to the relieving shift operator because it is an indicator of plant conditions, and it will show irregularities if any exist.

20. Phosphate, caustic soda, and tannin added. A record of phosphate, caustic soda, and tannin used is valuable in keeping correct boiler water analysis and in determining the total amount of chemicals used.

21. Remarks. The remarks column is in the upper right area of the log sheet. List all the equipment that is to be checked each day according to the schedule listed in TM 5-651. Annotate all the irregularities that are found in connection with these inspections. List the dates when the boilers are drained and washed and at other intervals, as determined by local water conditions. Indicate the degree of internal cleanliness.

22. Using personnel. Names of personnel responsible for these data must be entered in the appropriate area on the bottom of the log sheet.

Turnover/Watch Relief

When an operator comes on duty, he should make an operational inspection to ensure that everything is operating normally. The points to be checked are as follows:

1. Check the water level in the gauge glass on each boiler by opening and closing the try cocks.

2. Check the low-water cutoffs and the boiler feed equipment by blowing down the water columns on each boiler.

3. Check the steam pressure and compare it with the steam pressure that the plant should deliver.

4. Check the boilers for leaks or other conditions that can affect plant operation.

5. Check for proper operation of the boiler room accessories.

6. Check the fuel supply and the firing equipment.

7. Check the condition of the fires to determine if they are clean.

8. Check the general appearance of the boiler room, fixtures, piping, and insulation.

9. Check the boiler room record sheets to determine if any troubles were encountered by the previous shift operator.

10. Question the operator being relieved about plant operation and the troubles encountered.

11. Check for any verbal or written orders with which you are to comply.