🔍 Key Concepts

• Trace the flow path from the main condenser hotwell to and from the main condensate pump on Illustration SG-0010. • Locate the component actually labeled Hotwell Level Control Valve and see where its inlet and outlet are connected. • Consider why you would NOT normally control level by throttling pump suction on a condensate pump (think cavitation and loss of NPSH).

💭 Think About

• Starting at the main condenser hotwell symbol, follow the suction line into the main condensate pump, then follow all discharge branches. Which branch contains the hotwell level control device? • Look at what each discharge branch feeds: one goes to the main system, one may go to an air ejector, and another might return somewhere. Which arrangement would allow continuous control of water level in the hotwell? • If the condensate pump usually runs at constant speed, how can the system still regulate the hotwell level without changing pump speed?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify exactly where the Hotwell Level Control Valve connects on the piping diagram (is it on pump suction, pump discharge to air ejector, or on a separate recirculating line?). • Confirm whether the line with the level control valve leads back to the main condenser/hotwell or out to another piece of equipment. • Eliminate any option that would require throttling the suction of the condensate pump, and any option that does not match the line where the level control valve is drawn.