Proper boiler operation involves many professions, including the facility operator, design engineer (DE), manufacturer’s representative (MR), installing mechanical contractor (MC), controls contractor (CC), and commissioning authority provider. Issues one can experience may include the selection of improper equipment and installation, whether it’s mechanical or controls, improper maintenance, or total lack of maintenance. The technology is always evolving, so whether an engineer has any of the aforementioned specialties, he or she needs to continue learning and be open to training. What may have worked at a school in North Dakota could be excessive and not necessary for a school in Texas.
The process of the application of hydronics dates back to the 1700s. Obviously, the technology has improved greatly over the years, with the newest systems utilizing hydrogen to create a cleaner burning fuel. Going forward, the industry will need to utilize all the resources available to us, employing solar, wind, and fossil fuels, to provide clean energy for the future. As experienced during the Texas power outage in February 2021, if one zone fails, the results can be catastrophic. Investments are necessary in all the sectors, and engineers need to be as resourceful as possible.