A Study on Effect of Load Fluctuation on the Efficiency of Boiler

This studyinvestigates the effects of load fluctuation on the efficiencyof biomass boilers in a sugar mill. Data were collected from three boilers of a sugar mill with capacities of 40, 60, and 120 ton/h during the 2024 crushing season. The boiler performance was analyzed using both direct and indirect methods. The results revealed that during periods of stable load, boiler efficiency was approximately 0.5–2% higher compared to periods of low or fluctuating load. Unstable operation led to increased heat losses through flue gas and moisture in the fuel, resulting in a reduced amount of steam generated per unit of fuel. Therefore, maintaining the stability of boiler load is a key factor in enhancing the energy efficiency of biomass boiler systems in sugar mills