What is the primary purpose of a boiler in a facility?

The primary purpose of a boiler in a facility is to generate steam. Boilers are designed to heat water to a point where it transitions into steam or to generate steam directly. The steam produced is then used for various applications such as heating, power generation, or driving machinery.

While heating water is also a function performed by some boilers, the critical distinction lies in the foremost role of generating steam for processes within the facility. Steam has extensive applications including heating systems, cleaning processes, and even as a power source in turbines. Cooling air and filtering water are functions more relevant to air conditioning systems and water treatment systems, respectively, and do not pertain to the central operation of a boiler. Thus, the focus on steam generation aptly characterizes the primary function of a boiler in facility operations.