Boiler Feed Water Pumps
Boiler feed water pumps move water into a boiler at the pressure needed for safe, efficient steam system operation. In many boiler feedwater systems, the pump may handle new make-up water, returned condensate, or both depending on system design and operating conditions.
This page explains how a boiler feed pump works, the main types of boiler feed pumps, and the key factors to review when selecting a boiler feed water pump. For many commercial and industrial boiler applications, Burks CT series and CS series pumps are common choices because they are well suited for higher-pressure boiler feed and condensate return service.
Quick Boiler Feed Pump Basics
Feed water into the boiler at the pressure required by the system.
Burks CT and CS pumps are widely used for boiler feed and condensate return applications.
Flow, pressure or head, temperature, material, horsepower, voltage, and phase.
Boiler Feedwater Systems: What You Need to Know About the Role of the Feed Pump in Boiler Applications
How does a boiler feed pump work? Boiler feed water pumps move water into a boiler, whether that water is fresh make-up water or condensate returning through the boiler system. A properly selected boiler feed pump helps the boiler maintain the correct water level and pressure so the system can operate effectively, efficiently, and safely.
Boiler feed pumps are often selected for higher-pressure service and dependable performance in demanding boiler room conditions. In many commercial and industrial applications, the pump must overcome boiler pressure, piping resistance, and elevation changes while still delivering consistent flow to the system.
Boiler feed water pumps are often installed as part of complete condensate return systems and boiler feedwater systems that move hot water back to the boiler. For broader manufacturer background, visit our Burks pumps information page. To browse available products, use our Burks pump series shop page.
Types of Boiler Feed Pumps
Selecting the correct type of pump is essential for any application, and boiler feed water pumps are not one-size-fits-all. Different pump designs vary in how they operate, the pressure they can handle, and the amount of floor space they require.
Regenerative Turbine Pumps
A common fit for boiler feed and condensate return applications where higher pressure is required at lower flow rates. Burks CT and CS pumps fall into this category.
Horizontal Pumps
Horizontal pumps are generally easier to install and maintain, making them common in many mechanical room layouts.
Vertical Pumps
Vertical pump designs can reduce floor space requirements in tighter installations while still delivering required performance.
Factors When Selecting a Boiler Feed Water Pump
Performance Requirements
- Pressure required to overcome boiler system resistance
- Flow rate needed for the application
- Operating temperature of the water
- Expected duty cycle and runtime
Pump and Motor Details
- Material selection (bronze or stainless)
- Horsepower, voltage, and phase
- Installation orientation
- Original pump model for replacement
Efficiency, reliability, and service access should also be considered to ensure long-term system performance.
Burks CT and CS Pumps for Boiler Feed Applications
Burks CT and CS series pumps are commonly used in boiler feed water applications due to their ability to deliver consistent pressure and reliable performance in demanding environments.
Sizing Tools & Resources
Use these tools to determine required flow rates and pressure when selecting a boiler feed water pump. Proper sizing helps support reliable operation in boiler feedwater systems.
Boiler Feed Pump GPM Calculator
Estimate required flow rate based on boiler horsepower and system demand. Helps determine proper pump sizing for boiler feed applications.
PSI to Feet of Head Calculator
Convert pressure to feet of head for more accurate pump selection. Useful when evaluating boiler pressure requirements and system resistance.