Carryover in a steam boiler can cause what?

• A. Water hammer
• B. Corrosion
• C. Scaling
• D. Foaming

Answer: (A)

Carryover means boiler water (often with impurities) is carried into the steam. When that liquid water rides with the steam and then reaches cooler piping or equipment, it can flash to steam or condense abruptly, creating a sudden surge of liquid in the line. That surge travels with steam at high velocity and can slam into valves, traps, and elbows, producing a loud bang and potential damage—this is water hammer. While water quality issues in the boiler can contribute to problems like corrosion, scaling, or foaming, the most direct and immediate consequence of carryover in the steam system is water hammer.