What is a primary function of auxiliary boilers on vessels?

A primary function of auxiliary boilers on vessels is to provide steam for auxiliary services. Auxiliary boilers are specifically designed to generate steam that supports various equipment and systems on board, including heating, freshwater generation, and powering steam-driven machinery or systems, such as fuel oil heating and certain types of pumps.

Utilizing steam from auxiliary boilers is essential for maintaining shipboard operations, especially when the main propulsion boilers are not in operation or when additional steam is needed for non-propulsion uses. This steam can also be necessary for equipment that requires a consistent steam supply to operate effectively.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary purpose of auxiliary boilers. Enhancing main propulsion pertains to the role of main propulsion boilers, not auxiliary boilers. Replacing fuel oil systems is outside the scope of boiler functions, as these systems are predominantly focused on fuel management and combustion. Cooling the main engine is a function typically associated with cooling systems rather than steam boilers, as this involves the management of coolant rather than steam production.