How is the steam required by a deaerator primarily supplied?

The steam required by a deaerator is primarily supplied through a mix of extraction and reduced pressure steam. This option reflects the practical approach taken in steam generation and system efficiency, combining various sources to meet the thermal energy demands of the deaerator effectively.

Deaerators are devices designed to remove dissolved gases, particularly oxygen and carbon dioxide, from feedwater before it enters the boiler. By utilizing extraction steam, which is taken from the turbine at a specific point, and reduced pressure steam from other system areas, the deaerator can operate efficiently while maintaining the required temperatures and pressures necessary for effective gas removal.

This dual sourcing of steam allows for greater flexibility and better thermal performance, as both extraction and reduced pressure steam can be adjusted based on the operational requirements and system availability, ensuring that the deaerator has sufficient energy supply under varying conditions.