Electric control for steam boilers on diesel-electric and straight electric locomotives

ELECTRIC control is a necessity in the operation of the modern steam boiler if the boiler is expected to have maximum efficiency, safety in operation, and constant operation at the various outputs required. Installation and operating conditions vary over a wide range; therefore, to meet these conditions the controls used differ in type and quantity in order to supply those actually needed for good operation, as well as those required to comply with rules and regulations under which the installations are permitted. Generally, the method of operation of such boilers can be classified in two categories, namely, automatic and semiautomatic, and these two classes will be discussed in this article.