Which component in a boiler is primarily responsible for protecting the furnace refractories?

The component primarily responsible for protecting the furnace refractories in a boiler is the waterwall tubes. Waterwall tubes are integral to the boiler's design, as they are positioned around the furnace and are filled with water. Their primary function is to absorb heat from the combustion gases and transfer it to the water within the tubes.

By doing so, waterwall tubes not only help maintain the overall efficiency of the boiler through heat exchange but also provide a crucial protective layer for the furnace refractories. The presence of water in the tubes helps to regulate the temperature near the furnace lining, preventing the refractories from reaching temperatures that could lead to damage or failure. This protection is essential for prolonging the life of the combustion chamber lining and ensuring the safe operation of the boiler.

In contrast, the other components mentioned serve different roles within the boiler system. The superheater, for example, increases the temperature of the steam to improve efficiency but does not directly protect the refractories. The air preheater is responsible for preheating the combustion air, enhancing fuel efficiency, while the steam drum collects steam generated within the boiler and does not contribute to refractories protection.