What type of gas is typically monitored in boiler flue gas analysis?

In boiler flue gas analysis, carbon monoxide (CO) is a critical gas that is monitored because it is an indicator of combustion efficiency and safety. The presence of carbon monoxide in flue gases can signify incomplete combustion, which not only reduces efficiency but also poses serious health risks, as CO is a poisonous gas. Monitoring CO levels helps to ensure that the combustion process is functioning optimally and that safety standards are being met.

While oxygen is also monitored in flue gas analysis to assess combustion efficiency and ensure that there is enough oxygen for complete combustion, carbon monoxide provides specific insights regarding the combustion process's effectiveness. Nitrogen is typically present in flue gases but does not indicate combustion efficiency. Hydrogen is not usually a component of flue gas in standard boiler operations, making carbon monoxide the key gas of concern in flue gas analysis.