What is the function of a superheater in a boiler system?

The function of a superheater in a boiler system is to increase the temperature of steam above its saturation point. By doing this, the superheater enhances the efficiency of the steam used in turbines and other applications, as superheated steam has a higher thermal energy content than saturated steam. This elevated temperature allows for more work to be extracted from the steam when it expands in a turbine, which ultimately improves the overall efficiency of the boiler system.

Superheating also helps to prevent condensation in steam pipes, which can cause issues like water hammer and reduced efficiency, thus maintaining a more stable and predictable flow of energy through the system.