What does the term "thermal efficiency" refer to in boiler operations?

Thermal efficiency in boiler operations refers to the ratio of useful heat output to heat input. This measurement indicates how effectively the boiler converts the energy in fuel into usable heat for the intended application, such as heating water or generating steam. A higher thermal efficiency means that a greater proportion of the energy from the fuel is being converted into useful heat, which is essential for optimizing performance and minimizing fuel consumption and operational costs.

For instance, if a boiler has a thermal efficiency of 80%, this means that 80% of the energy in the fuel is effectively transformed into useful heat, while 20% is lost, typically through exhaust gases or other inefficiencies. Thus, understanding and optimizing thermal efficiency is crucial for maintaining an efficient and cost-effective boiler operation.